130 | Carlos Fúquene Retamoso … “The strategies gave the following results: currently, 197.000 farmers have been certified or verified for the sustainable production of the product… and … in the last six years, an additional income of around 60 million dollars was generated for the benefit of the coffee growers and their families” …
Industry standards included the a∫doption of ISO 14001 for innovation in their products and processes, together with the adoption of fair trade seals to benefit agricultural producers located at the end of the supply chain. Climate change adaptation strategies included the establishment of a smart agricultural practice for developing new crop varieties that counter climate change. In order to do that, the Association created a research center for evaluating different agricultural practices to deal with climate change phenomena. The Association implemented agricultural best practices through water management, green R&D and the involvement of the farmers in the adoption of pollution reduction practices. Sustainable practices included, for example, a dry depulping process to reduce water consumption and wastewater disposal, cleaner technologies and processes optimization. Practices for environmental conservation were related to reforestation and the protection of soil and water systems, including the preservation of wetlands along the agricultural zone. The biodiversity program became a complementary environmental business for the Association, by providing an environmental service. Table 25. ESA – Agri-business. environmental practices * Certification of organic products through R&D investments * Adoption of industry standards (i.e. ISO 14001) and sustainable agricultural practices such as rainforest Alliance, UTZ and 4C certification. * Engagement in environmental conservation initiatives through reforestation and protection of soil and water systems * Pollution reduction through water and energy management and implementation of best agricultural practices (i.e. cleaner technologies). * Implementation of climate change adaptation strategies, reduction of water consumption and responsible wastewater disposal. * Brand positioning by offering an organic agricultural product and by incorporating social projects with marketing activities
