Cargill advances deforestation-free cocoa supply chain efforts

Agricultural giant Cargill is reporting progress in its initiative to create a deforestation-free cocoa supply chain in West Africa. The company, alongside its partners, has been promoting agroforestry practices, which involve planting non-cocoa trees alongside cocoa trees. This approach aims to improve soil fertility, enhance biodiversity, and boost carbon storage, while simultaneously increasing cocoa yields and improving farmer livelihoods.

According to Cargill, a deforestation-free supply chain is achievable, with tangible signs of progress being observed in West Africa. Since 2019, Cargill and its partner PUR have collaborated with smallholder farmers to implement these agroforestry methods. Farmers, such as Kone Yaya from Ivory Coast, have noted improved harvests and better cocoa quality, attributed to the shade and soil benefits provided by the additional trees.

The company has committed to achieving deforestation-free agricultural supply chains by 2030. To support this goal, Cargill participates in multi-stakeholder initiatives like the Cocoa & Forests Initiative (CFI). CFI brings together leading cocoa companies, governments, and stakeholders to halt cocoa-related deforestation and restore forests in Ivory Coast and Ghana.

Cargill is also leveraging technology to monitor progress. The company collects data on farm boundaries through GPS mapping, aiming to identify and address deforestation hotspots directly with farmers and other stakeholders. Additionally, barcode and digital management systems are being developed for farmer organizations to enhance product traceability and demonstrate adherence to good agricultural practices.