Farmers contribute very little to climate change yet unfairly bear the brunt of its impact, with fluctuating temperatures, unpredictable crop seasons and extreme weather. It is the duty of the cocoa industry stakeholders to preserve the naturally-rich soil and broader ecosystem. Thus, Natural International Export has also partnered with the largest organic cocoa cooperative in Cameroun and other African countries.
With a group of over 10,000 farmers across four main cocoa growing regions, these farmers use organic fertilizers which provide macro and micro nutrients to ensure soil regeneration. Not only do these practices increase crop yields, carbon capture, and retain water for root growth, but they also negate the use of synthetic pesticides which are harmful for both the farmer and environment. Lastly, Natural International Exports ensures that these farmers are paid above industry-standard premiums for their cultivation of organic cocoa beans.
Cocoa farmers are both an indispensable factor and essential link in the global cocoa supply chain. The cultivation of this cash crop remains a critical livelihood activity for hundreds of thousands farmers in Ghana. However, these vital individuals are equally the most vulnerable. Industry experts note that approximately 95% of annual global cocoa bean production is cultivated by smallholder farmers, often in regions with poor infrastructure and low income per capita.
- Brundtland Commission’s definition of Sustainable Development