rainforest alliance sustainable agriculture standard...in january 2018, the rainforest alliance...
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© Rainforest Alliance
Rainforest Alliance
Sustainable Agriculture
Standard APPLICABLE FOR MEDIUM-LARGE FARMS
Draft Standard V2.0 – For external consultation (June 2019)
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Table of Contents Introduction ..................................................................................................................................................4
Scope of the standard.......................................................................................................................4
Differentiation between smallholders and medium-large producers.......................................4
Key features of the 2020 Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard ....................5
Member profile .....................................................................................................................................8
Thematic innovations ..........................................................................................................................8
Climate Smart Agriculture ..................................................................................................................8
Sustainable farming practices and agrochemicals approach .................................................9
Due diligence approach for social issues .......................................................................................9
Livelihoods .............................................................................................................................................9
Implementation process for the Rainforest Alliance standard ................................................ 10
Assurance ........................................................................................................................................... 11
Compliance rules.............................................................................................................................. 12
The Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard ............................................................... 15
Chapter 1: Management ....................................................................................................................... 16
Objectives and Outcomes: ............................................................................................................ 16
1.1 Group Management Capacities ................................................................................. 18
1.2 Group Member Administration ..................................................................................... 18
1.3 Internal Inspections and Risk Assessments ....................................................................... 19
1.4 Management Plan and Service Delivery ........................................................................ 20
1.5 Grievance Mechanism ....................................................................................................... 21
1.6 Gender equality ................................................................................................................... 22
1.7 young farmers ....................................................................................................................... 22
1.8 Traceability ............................................................................................................................ 23
1.9 Premium ................................................................................................................................. 24
Chapter 2: Farming .................................................................................................................................. 25
Objectives and Outcomes: ............................................................................................................ 25
2.1 Planting and rotation ........................................................................................................... 27
2.2 Pruning and renovation of Crop Trees ............................................................................. 27
2.3 Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) ....................................................................... 28
2.4 Soil Fertility and Conservation ............................................................................................ 28
2.5 Integrated Pest Management (IPM) ................................................................................ 29
2.6 Agrochemicals Management ........................................................................................... 30
2.7 Harvest and Post-Harvest Practices .................................................................................. 32
Chapter 3: Social ...................................................................................................................................... 33
Objectives and Outcomes: ............................................................................................................ 33
3.1 Assess and Address Discrimination, Forced Labor, Child Labor, workplace
Harassment and violence ......................................................................................................... 35
3.2 Freedom of Association and Collective Bargaining ..................................................... 36
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3.3 Wages and Contracts ......................................................................................................... 37
3.4 Living Wage ........................................................................................................................... 38
3.5 Working conditions ............................................................................................................... 38
3.6 Health & Safety ..................................................................................................................... 39
3.7 Housing and Living Conditions ......................................................................................... 41
3.8 Communities ......................................................................................................................... 42
Chapter 4: Environment .......................................................................................................................... 44
Objectives and Outcomes: ............................................................................................................ 44
4.1 Forests, other natural ecosystems and protected area ............................................... 46
4.2 Conservation and enhancement of natural ecosystems and native vegetation . 46
4.3 Riparian Buffer and Chemical Non-Application Zones ................................................ 47
4.4 Protection of Wildlife and biodiversity .............................................................................. 47
4.5 Water Conservation ............................................................................................................. 48
4.6 Wastewater and Water Quality......................................................................................... 49
4.7 Waste Management ........................................................................................................... 50
4.8 Energy Efficiency .................................................................................................................. 50
4.9 Greenhouse Gases Reduction .......................................................................................... 51
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INTRODUCTION
In January 2018, the Rainforest Alliance merged with UTZ. We joined forces because we know
that together we can have a greater impact and be a better partner to the many
stakeholders we work with. In the 2020 Sustainable Agriculture Standard, we intend to
harmonize the existing standards of the Rainforest Alliance and UTZ, learn from past
experiences, but most importantly bring innovation and new insight into certification and
agricultural sustainability. Our 2020 Sustainable Agriculture Standard is designed to maximize
positive social, environmental, and economic impact, while offering farmers an enhanced
framework to improve their livelihoods and protecting the landscapes where they live and
work.
This second draft of the standard is formulated after a full public consultation that was held
from December 2018 to February 2019 to gather feedback and improve this document. The
feedback from the stakeholder consultation and this next version has then been discussed
and approved by Rainforest Alliance’s multi-stakeholder Standards Committee.
This Sustainable Agriculture Standard forms the heart of the Rainforest Alliance’s new
certification strategy. In addition to the standard, a larger system of assurance, chain of
custody, and monitoring and evaluation will support its implementation. Finally, at the widest
level, advocacy and landscape-level interventions support the transformation of sustainable
supply chains.
SCOPE OF THE STANDARD
The scope of the standard is to address sustainability issues in agricultural production.
Focus crops The standard focuses on the main categories of crops that are currently within
the existing certification programs, which are tree crops (such as coffee,
cocoa and tea), fruits (such as bananas, coconuts and pineapples), nuts
(such as hazelnuts) and cut flowers. Not necessarily all crops or products
grown on certified farms can be sold as certified.
For herbs and spices Rainforest Alliance intends to work with the Union for
Ethical Biotrade (UEBT) as is already done in the UTZ program. It is explored to
certify these crops against the UEBT standard.
For palm oil, Rainforest Alliance’s organizational resources will be focusing on
the three core areas of intervention that are felt to be are most critical
now which are smallholders, jurisdictional/landscape approaches and the
development of a certification+ approach, as well as maintaining the
standard in its current form.
Global The geographical scope of the standard is in principle global1 with a focus on
the main geographical areas where the focus crops are grown.
Whole farm In principle the scope of the standard is the whole farm. With regard to crop
type specific agronomic practices the focus of the audit will be on the
certified crop.
The audit scope of the standard reaches up to the point where legal
ownership changes. This means certain on-farm processing activities that
involve physical handling, and that are considered important to be included
in view of social or environmental risks (e.g. the production of green coffee;
the drying, sorting, or bagging of cocoa beans; the production of made tea)
are included in the farm standard audit.
Differentiation between smallholders and medium-large producers The 2020 Rainforest Alliance standard differentiates between smallholders and medium/large
producers.
1 The Rainforest Alliance reserves the right to make exceptions, e.g. due to legal or political circumstances.
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Smallholders are small-scale agricultural producers that primarily rely on family or household
labor or workforce exchange with other members of the community. They might hire
temporary workers for seasonal tasks or even hire (few) permanent workers when the farmer
or his/her family cannot do the work by themselves. Smallholders can’t afford to be certified
individually and usually need to rely on the Group Management for record development
and record keeping.
Medium/large producers are defined as producers that use hired labor, and therefore do not
rely primarily on family labor.
The standard treats smallholders and medium/large producers differently so that each
producer type can focus on topics that are most relevant for their situation. For example, for
medium/large producers, there is a stronger focus on core criteria for social issues related to
workers and families that live on-site, as well as on certain environmental topics. For
smallholders the standard gives special attention to strengthening the group management
capacity over time.
Individual and group certif ication
Smallholders commonly use group certification. Therefore, group management requirements
are placed in the smallholder standard. Medium and large producers can under certain
conditions also apply for joint certification (several farms to be certified in one certificate).
The standard for medium and large producers therefore also includes requirements for the
management of the joint certificate. The rules and conditions for these groups of
medium/large producers are to be determined.
KEY FEATURES OF THE 2020 RAINFOREST ALLIANCE SUSTAINABLE
AGRICULTURE STANDARD
The new Rainforest Alliance Sustainable Agriculture Standard brings innovative approaches,
outlined as follows:
Performance driven approach
The Rainforest Alliance believes that certification should be accessible for a wide group of
producers and that continuous improvements are a fundamental tenet of sustainability. The
new certification system will drive continuous improvement for producers. In addition to
prescribing practices, the focus is on enabling and measuring improvements towards
sustainability outcomes.
The core criteria include all requirements for the first certification. Most core criteria prescribe
good practices with respect to key sustainability risk topics and are formulated as
compliance criteria (yes/no). In some cases, the core criterion will contain a set threshold
(e.g. payment of minimum wage) that must be measured and reported.
Improvement pathways are designed to further promote and measure progress. For the
improvement pathways, the Rainforest Alliance introduces mandatory and self-selected
improvements topics. The mandatory improvement topics need to be included in the
standard compliance as the producer or producer group advances on its journey to
sustainability. Rainforest Alliance works out risk maps for the relevant topics. To increase the
relevance of the standard, the Rainforest Alliance can exclude mandatory improvement
topics for certain contexts or crops in case there is a low risk. For all topics the producers still
need to comply with the core criteria. Hence the mandatory improvement criteria can differ
per certificate holder, since they depend on the type of producer, country or region and the
certified crop. Self-selected topics are chosen by certificate holders based on their own risk
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assessment or aspirations. The selection may depend on external support received for a
certain improvement, such as renovation of crop trees.
The improvements pathways come primarily in two forms. They are either defined as levels of
improvement, with prescribed practices or targets, or as a ‘Smart-Meter’. The levels
stipulated for the mandatory improvements indicate the timeframe in which these
improvement criteria are to be met. Level 1 needs to be complied with after three years of
the first certification audit, level 2 after six years, and level 3 after nine years. Certificate
holders that already comply with a higher level of improvement in an earlier stage can be
audited against this higher level, and publish this on their member profile as explained below.
The ‘Smart-Meter’ is based on indicators to measure improvements, without predefined
targets. These data will provide the farm or group better insights into their current
performance and can be used to diagnose the existing sustainability gaps, give insights into
improvements made and create incentives for further development.
Figure 1: Basic structure of the new standard
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Data and indicators
Through the new certification system, Rainforest Alliance will facilitate data gathering on
sustainability practices and outcomes to be used by producers and other supply chain
actors. These data are referenced in the standard as “indicators”.
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The indicator data can help the producers to identify the sustainability gaps and to monitor
the improvements for self-learning. Next to this, the indicators will be used to assess
compliance and potentially report to other supply chain actors in a secure certificate holder
“member profile”. Rainforest Alliance will provide guidance for the methodology to collect
data and indicators. Depending on the topic, data can be collected through internal
sources such as the farm or group’s internal management system or a trader or buyer
monitoring and evaluation system, or through external sources such as the certification
assurance process, external data sources such as satellite imagery, or by other credible and
mutually agreed upon third parties. Data used for compliance and external reporting are
verified and analyzed through the assurance process.
The indicators that are specified in the standard are either related to the core criteria or are
used to measure the improvements. The indicators related to the core criteria are to be used
for self-learning, monitoring and/or reporting. The indicators related to the improvement
criteria will inform the certificate holder on the progress towards the desired improvement.
For some improvement topics targets are predefined in the standard, for instance the
percentage of group members with digitized data collection (1.4). Other improvements do
not come with predefined targets, these are the so-called smart meter indicators. The
certificate holders themselves should set the targets for these indicators and define the
adequate actions to take to realize these improvements. For the mandatory smart-meter
indicators, the quality of the data and the actions undertaken will be verified through the
assurance process. The measured level of the indicator data will not influence the
certification decision. However, if no data have been collected, or if the quality of the data
is very low, this may have consequences for certification. The Rainforest Alliance will use the
indicator data for learning purposes, and to establish the context and crop specific optimum
levels for these indicators, to be used by the certificate holders as a reference for their
improvements.
Concerning the data for the self-selected smart meter improvements, Rainforest Alliance will
only allow these to be published, if the certification body has verified the quality of the
collected data.
Member profile
A member profile for farms and groups is another innovation that will be used to
communicate sustainability performance and improvements. Such a member profile will be
informed by the data and indicators from the standard, and will allow producers to
demonstrate their results, challenges, and improvements. The profile can become a valuable
tool to drive continuous improvement, empower producers, build demand for certified
product, and channel supply chain investments.
THEMATIC INNOVATIONS
Many key topics that were already present in existing Rainforest Alliance and UTZ standards
have been maintained. Farm and group management, good agronomic practices and
natural resource conservation, safe use of agrochemicals, biodiversity conservation and
nature protection, and an integrated approach on climate smart agriculture.
Climate Smart Agriculture
We recognize the challenges already being posed by climate change and seek to address
these challenges by actively promoting Climate Smart Agriculture2 to improve the resilience
of farms and farming communities. This is accomplished by protecting native ecosystems
and on-farm biodiversity, avoiding deforestation, maintaining healthy soils, sustaining water
2 An approach to developing the technical, policy and investment conditions to achieve sustainable agricultural development for
food security under climate change. It is composed of three main pillars: 1) sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and
incomes; 2) adapting and building resilience to climate change; 3) reducing and/or removing greenhouse gases emissions, where
possible (Source: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations).
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resources, and guiding farmers to select and adopt climate-smart planting materials and
farming practices.
Additionally, the Standard seeks to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of agriculture
associated with the use of energy, fertilizers, pesticides, and methane emissions – while
maintaining or enhancing carbon stocks in soils, forests, and other on-farm vegetation. As
such, the Standard promotes all three pillars of Climate Smart Agriculture:
1) sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and incomes;
2) adapting and building resilience to climate change;
3) reducing greenhouse gas emissions, where possible.
Sustainable farming practices and agrochemicals approach
Rainforest Alliance is also working on a revised agrochemical approach that is moving further
in implementing more sustainable farming practices enabling farmers to further reduce the
use of hazardous chemicals to have better impact on environment, climate resilience and
worker safety.
Due diligence approach for social issues
One key innovation is in our proposed approach for child labor, forced labor and (sexual)
harassment. Various experiences and research show that due diligence approaches and
remediation are best practice to have impact on these issues. This approach is now
proposed for the relevant topics in Chapter 3 (Social) of the new standard.
The new standard also puts more emphasis on gender equality, recognizing the positions and
rights of women and girls and their importance for sustainable development.
Livelihoods
The Rainforest Alliance intends to focus more extensively on economic advancement of
farmers and workers, helping to create more sustainable livelihoods. In the current standards,
a start was made with the introduction of criteria related to living wage and the practices to
trigger improvements in farm profitability and farmers’ income. The new standard introduces
a living wage tool for medium/large farms to help assess wages and wage gaps.
With regard to farmer incomes, our criteria on farm management and services aim to
improve profitability and income. Furthermore, Rainforest Alliance will begin monitoring the
progress towards living income. A Living Income Tool is being developed that will estimate
net income from certified product and the gap with living income benchmarks. The first pilots
with this tool are being planned in Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Such a tool will go a long way in
helping partners understand the reality of the living income gap in their supply chains and
thereby facilitate the development of strategies to help address it.
Rainforest Alliance explores how to better share the responsibility for investments required to
build sustainable agriculture production systems between producers and buyers. The
mentioned developments in the farm standard are supported by further developments in our
chain of custody standard exploring requirements for buyers.
Rainforest Alliance strongly believes that producers should be incentivized and rewarded in
order to develop and maintain their investments in sustainable production practices. Our
new standard system strives for continuous improvement in sustainability - this is not possible
without adequate incentives flowing back to producers.
Farm gate price, price premiums, access to global markets, price relative to the cost of
production, and the broader farming context all have a clear impact on the income of
farmers. The Rainforest Alliance will use both the farm standard and the chain of custody
standard to drive more economic transparency of certification and value to farmers. Within
the standard, the payment of a premium will be mandatory for buyers of Rainforest Alliance
certified tea, coffee, cocoa and bananas. Sector-specific requirements on premiums will be
developed over the coming months. Additional interventions to drive further economic
incentives will be developed through chain of custody and outside of the realm of the
agriculture standard.
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IMPLEMENTATION PROCESS FOR THE RAINFOREST ALLIANCE STANDARD
After the producer registers with Rainforest Alliance, we send back the list of mandatory
improvement criteria that are applicable for the farm or farm group. The Rainforest Alliance
provides a customized package with the training guidance, the risk assessment guidance
and the management capacity assessment tool (for groups) to implement the core criteria,
and to prepare for the certification audit. This preparation period is referred to as Year 0.
The preparation period starts with the producer conducting a preparatory assessment, which
includes an initial assessment of risks, gaps and baseline, see diagram “Implementation
process” below. The risk assessment provides insight in the risks that threaten reaching the
sustainability outcomes, and in the gaps that need to be bridged to reach compliance with
the standard. The management capacity assessment tool will be used by groups to identify
the areas where the management capacities should be strengthened to ensure compliance
with the standard and to realize improvements in their sustainability performance.
These preparatory assessments and other sources of information, such as maps of farm units,
are used as input to draft an initial management plan, describing the actions to be taken to
reach compliance with the core criteria of the standard. Subsequently, the producer will
conduct internal audits to assess compliance of group members with the standard (in the
case of a group), and to conduct the baseline for the applicable improvement indicators.
Individual farms will carry out an assessment to check compliance with the standard. The
results of the internal inspections, and the first feedback received from the certification body,
will be used as input to further detail and adapt the management plan.
After this preparation phase, the producer has the first certification audit carried out by an
independent audit organisation. If the audit is passed, the first year of certification starts. A
more in-depth risk assessment will be the first action, focused on the mandatory
improvement topics. For instance, in case of a high risk of child labor this in-depth risk
assessment should provide insight in the most vulnerable children and the underlying causes
of child labor, which will guide the actions to be included in the management plan. The
internal inspections will be conducted yearly, with a focus on the topics identified in the risk
assessment and the results of earlier inspections. The information gathered through the
internal inspections will be used both to check compliance as well as to guide further
improvement actions. The management plan will be regularly adapted based on the
information gathered through the internal inspections, audits, risk assessments and
measurement of the indicators.
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ASSURANCE
The new standard is part of Rainforest Alliance’s broader strategy to reimagine certification.
An important element of this is the collection and verification of credible and useful data
and compliance evidence. In order to keep the cost of certification reasonable for
certificate holders, assurance is geared towards risks as well as topics that matter the most.
The intent is not to lower the involvement of certification bodies, but to target their efforts
more effectively. That means for example that auditors could spend more time at farms to
verify compliance with social criteria, whereas for some of the environmental criteria,
technology and satellite images will get a more prominent role.
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In addition, the Rainforest Alliance is exploring assurance methods that verify farmer’s levels
of readiness to implement the standard during the preparation period. This is to assure that
farmers reach certification in the first year successfully and are set for the improvement
journey of the following years; enabling more targeted and smoother assurance
interventions. Rainforest Alliance will also explore methods that objectively lower or increase
the intensity and frequency of audits based on risks, farmer’s readiness to implement, crop-
type and country context, and achieved levels in the improvement criteria.
Rainforest Alliance started exploring innovative ideas for the new assurance model during
2019. During the coming months, these ideas will be further developed and tested.
Compliance rules The certification audits take place once every three years, and check compliance with the
core criteria as well as with the relevant mandatory improvement levels. Yearly surveillance
audits will be required to ensure continuous compliance with the standard, and check
progress on improvements.
For the first certification audit all certificate holders must comply with all core criteria
applicable to their category (smallholder or medium/large, individual or group), not yet with
any of the other requirements. This first audit does include an assessment of the level of the
applicable mandatory improvements, and a check on the baseline measurement for the
mandatory smart meter improvements.
The mandatory improvements with a Smart Meter approach will be checked on quality of
data during the audit instead of a pass/fail approach. If the indicators do not show any
progress, or even decline, the certificate holder can provide causes of this situation and
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evidence of activities undertaken to work on this improvement. If the evidence is insufficient
this will lead to a non-conformity or to decertification. The self-selected improvements will
only be included in the audit process, in case the certificate holder wants to publish these
data.
For information
The following content is taken up in the member registration.
Responsible conduct
The Member commits to being a good and reliable partner to other Members in the supply
chain, and to adhere to agreements made with other Members.
The Member commits to adhere to internationally accepted principles of responsible
business conduct, such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights and the
OECD Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. The scale and complexity of the means
through which a Member meets this commitment may vary according to the size, sector,
operational context, ownership and structure, and with the severity of the enterprise’s
adverse human rights impacts.
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OUTCOMES AND IMPACT
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THE RAINFOREST ALLIANCE SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE
STANDARD
TABLE OF ICONS
ICON MEANING
Core (No icon) Core criterion, mandatory for certification
Medium/Large indiv. Criterion applicable to the individual medium/large farm
GM Med/Large The criteria in the column GM Med/Large are applicable for group
management of medium and large farms that are certified
together.
CROP The criteria in the column Crop are crop specific. At this moment
only few criteria are crop specific, more criteria are expected to
be crop-specific in the final standard.
L1, L2, L3 Level: topic to be complied with after a certain number of years.
Level 1 has to be complied 3 years after first certification, level 2
after 6 years, level 3 after 9 years
The M-icon indicates that improvement is Mandatory.
The S-icon indicates that the certificate holder can opt to select
this improvement (Self-Selected).
Smart meter: Improvements measuring performance without
compulsory targets. Smart meters can be used to improve
management decisions. It is audited by verifying the data.
The M means that it is a Mandatory improvement.
Smart meter: Improvements measuring performance without
compulsory targets. Smart meters can be used to improve
management decisions. It is audited by verifying the data.
The S means that it is a Self-Selected improvement, indicating that
the certificate holder can opt for this improvement.
The two standards for smallholders and medium/large farms are numbered together.
Therefore, the numbering in each of the standards shows some gaps.
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CHAPTER 1: MANAGEMENT
Objectives and Outcomes:
Farming is not just a way of life but is also a business, and successful business needs
management. The Rainforest Alliance wants to see certified farms managed in an efficient,
transparent, inclusive and economically viable manner. Here, it is essential that farms and
groups implement an integrated planning and management system, with processes and
systems for continuous improvement. Planning and management support increased farm
productivity and efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and increased capacity to
adapt to climate change. Increased efficiency in the use of land, water, fertilizers, and
pesticides further supports climate change adaptation and mitigation (Climate Smart
Agriculture).
To help achieve this outcome, the chapter begins with topics related to management
capacity, farm and group administration and data management, and sustainability
assessment and management planning. Criteria on these topics follow a planning process of
assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation and adjustment. Based on the risk
assessment, specific mitigation and adaptation practices are defined. Farm and group
administrators play a key role in facilitating this planning process. Traceability and premium
transparency are also topics that support this outcome of transparent
farm management and overall integrity of the Rainforest Alliance certification system.
Finally, this chapter includes the cross-cutting themes of gender, youth participation, and
farm profitability. The selection of these topics in the management chapter recognizes the
universal nature of these themes, and that they apply to multiple dimensions of farm and
group activity. Criteria and improvement levels in these topics focus on
contextual improvements. That is, rather than requiring a certain level of gender or youth
participation, or a certain level of farm income, the standard encourages farm-specific and
context-specific targets and activities to reach member’s appropriate goals.
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1.1 GROUP MANAGEMENT CAPACITIES
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.1.1) Group management demonstrates a commitment to sustainable agriculture
by dedicating adequate resources and staff to the implementation of the
Rainforest Alliance standard.
Group management assesses yearly its management capacity to ensure
compliance with the standard and the ability to make sustainability performance
changes, by using the Rainforest Alliance Capacity Assessment Tool that includes
the following topics:
- Human resources management
- Business management
- Financial management
- Member services and business activities
- Governance practice
- Community and stakeholder engagement
x
Improvements
(1.1.2) Group management improves its management capacities.
x
Indicators
• Smart Meter (1.1.2): Scores on the Rainforest Alliance Capacity Assessment Tool
1.2 GROUP MEMBER ADMINISTRATION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.2.1) A registry of group members is kept and updated, containing for each
group member
- Full name
- Location
- Phone number
- Company ID
- Polygon per farm unit
- Number of farm units
- Total farm area
- Certified crop area
- Previous year’s total harvest
- Previous year 's harvest delivered to the group
- Present year’s total harvest estimation
- Number of permanent workers
- Estimated number of seasonal workers
- Participation in other certification programs
- First year of certification
x
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(1.2.2) A registry of permanent and seasonal workers is kept and updated,
containing for each worker:
- Full name
- Gender
- Year of birth
- Start and end date(s) of employment
- Wages
For workers living on-site, the registry additionally contains: - Address
- Number of family members
- Year of birth of family members
For young workers, the registry additionally contains:
- Address
- Name and address of parent(s) or legal guardian(s)
- School registration;
- Type of work or tasks
- The number of daily and weekly working hours.
x x
(1.2.4) An up-to-date map of the certified farm(s) is available, including production
zones, processing facilities, human settlements in the proximity of farm limits, schools
and medical centres/first aid sites, forests, natural ecosystems and other existing
native vegetation cover, agroforestry shade cover, protected areas, water bodies
and buffer zones. The map also includes risk areas identified in the risk assessment
(see 1.3.5). The map displays the date of issue.
x
x
(1.2.5) Polygon(s) are available of all farm units larger than 3 ha of all the farms of
the certificate. Polygon formats can be found in the guidance document (to be
confirmed at a later date).
x x
Improvements
N/A
Indicators
N/A
1.3 INTERNAL INSPECTIONS AND RISK ASSESSMENTS
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.3.1) An internal inspection system is in place to assess compliance of group
members with the Rainforest Alliance standard. The system includes:
- yearly inspection of all farms of all group members
- first year of certification of a group member: inspection of all farm units, on all
requirements of the Rainforest Alliance standard
- consecutive years:
- scope of inspection is based on risk assessment and on previous inspections
- rotation system for inspection of farm units, so that each unit is inspected at
least every 3 years
x
(1.3.2) There is sufficient capacity of internal inspectors in relation to the number
and size of the group members. Internal inspectors are only allowed to inspect x
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farms after they have passed a training course on good internal inspection
practices organized by group management.
(1.3.3) An approval and sanction system is in place in relation to compliance of
group members with the Rainforest Alliance standard. The system includes:
- a written approval and sanction procedure
- an approval and sanction manager or committee,
- a mechanism to follow up on group members' improvement and corrective
measures,
- a decision on each group member’s certification status that is documented,
signed, and included in the final internal inspection report.
x
(1.3.4) Record keeping for certification purposes has to be kept for at least 4 years.
x x
(1.3.5) Management conducts a risk assessment in relation to the criteria in this
standard for their group/farm at least every three years, including at least the risks
associated with:
- Social risks including child labor, forced labor and workplace harassment and
violence
- Agrochemicals management - Deforestation and biodiversity loss
- Economic fluctuations or shocks
- Climate change, extreme weather, environmental hazards
x x
Improvements
L1
(1.3.6) Internal inspection data is collected through a device (e.g. phone,
tablet, etc.), and used in a digitized format for at least 30% of the group
members.
x
L2
(1.3.7) Internal inspection data is collected through a device (e.g. phone,
tablet, etc.), and used in a digitized format for at least 50% of the group
members.
x
L3
(1.3.8) Internal inspection data is collected through a device (e.g. phone,
tablet, etc.), and used in a digitized format for at least 80% of the group
members.
x
Indicators
• (1.3.6, 1.3.7, 1.3.8) % of group members whose internal inspection data are collected and used by the
group management in a digitized format.
1.4 MANAGEMENT PLAN AND SERVICE DELIVERY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.4.1) Management makes a management plan, describing improvement areas
and actions to be taken. The management plan is based on at least, but not
limited to, the internal inspection (1.3.1) risk assessment (1.3.5) and local agro-
ecological conditions (soil, climate, water). Actions are implemented, monitored,
and documented. The management plan is updated at least every three years.
x x
(1.4.2) Group management provides group members with services based on the
gaps identified in the risk assessment to achieve sustainability outcomes. Services x
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21
include training, access to inputs (e.g. seedlings, irrigation systems). The group
management documents the trainings and services provided.
(1.4.4) Service providers, including labor providers, comply with applicable criteria
of the standard for work conducted within the certification scope.
x x
Improvements
(1.4.6) Group management supports group members with
- Training on financial literacy and business management
- Facilitating access to financial services (e.g. bank account, mobile
payment, loans for farm investments).
x
(1.4.7) Group management supports group members:
- To make informed decisions on adequate diversification strategies
- Facilitating access to needed knowledge, inputs, services to implement
the diversification strategies
- Extending support to the household and/or community-based
interventions.
x
(1.4.8) Group management supports group members with individual Farm
Development Plans (FDP) that enable farmers to plan their agronomic
and financial interventions.
x
Indicators
• (1.4.2) # of trainings/ awareness raising activities provided to members and/or workers;
• (1.4.2) Topics of the trainings and awareness raising activities
• (1.4.2) # and % of members/workers attending training activities (M/F)
• (1.4.2) # and type of services (other than training) provided to members/workers
• Smart Meter (1.4.6): # of group members that have access to financial services
• Smart Meter (1.4.7): # of farmers (M'/F) that diversify their income through:
- another job
- growing more than one additional cash crop
- growing more than one additional crop for self-consumption
- upgrading of their product (e.g. wet processing)
• Smart Meter (1.4.8) Number and % of group members with a Farm Development Plan (FDP) as
developed by Rainforest Alliance or an equivalent of FDP approved by Rainforest Alliance
1.5 GRIEVANCE MECHANISM
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.5.1) A formal mechanism is in place and used for submitting and addressing grievances. The mechanism can be used by all internal and external stakeholders
including workers, members and staff, buyers, suppliers and communities, for all
subjects of grievance including internal inspections, workplace harassment and
violence, discrimination, forced labor and child labor.
The mechanism includes means for confidential grievances and allows for
submitting anonymous grievances.
x x
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22
Management informs group members / workers and relevant stakeholders about
the mechanism.
Workers are protected against employment termination, retribution or threats as a
consequence of utilizing the grievance mechanism. Grievances are addressed in a
clear and timely manner. Grievances and the corrective actions are adequately
documented.
Indicators
N/A
1.6 GENDER EQUALITY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.6.1) Management commits to promote gender equality through a written
statement and communicates that to group members and/or workers.
Management appoints a responsible person or committee for the implementation,
monitoring and evaluation of measures that promote gender equality and women
empowerment.
The responsible person/committee carries out a gender assessment and develops a
gender plan, including targets and timelines, to address identified gender
constraints.
x x
Improvements
(1.6.2) Gender equality is improved x x
Indicators
• Smart Meter (1.6.2):
o % of female workers with permanent contracts (compared to % of men in similar jobs with permanent
contracts)
o Training/awareness raising attendance by women (# and %)
o % women in management positions or supervisory functions
o # and % of women in workers organization and/or union
1.7 YOUNG FARMERS
N/A
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23
1.8 TRACEABILITY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.8.1) The total certified production (in kg) is estimated annually. It is based
on a credible methodology for yield estimation (in kg/ha) of a representative
sample of farms or farm units. The methodology and calculations are documented.
x x
(1.8.2) The total harvested certified production (in kg) and the harvested yield
(in kg/ha) are recorded annually.
x x
(1.8.3) Certified products are visually segregated from non-certified products.
x x
(1.8.4) There is documented proof that products that the group sells as
certified can be traced back to the certified farm(s) where these were
produced:
- Group management has documented the product flow of the certified
product from the group member up to the group, including all
intermediaries (collection points, warehouses etc.) and activities carried
out on the product.
- Group management keeps purchase and sales documents linked to
physical deliveries from certified, multi-certified and non-certified
product. The documents include the group member, date, product type
and volume.
- Group members keep sales receipts including date, product type and
volume.
x x
(1.8.5) Sale transactions of certified products are recorded in the Rainforest
Alliance traceability system, including premiums received, at latest at the end
of the quarter within which the sales were performed. Total sales of certified
products do not exceed the total certified production plus remaining stock
balance from the previous year.
x x
(1.8.6) Equipment used to define the weight or volume of certified product
are calibrated annually.
x x
Improvements
N/A
Indicators
• (1.8.1) Estimated certified production volume (kg)
• (1.8.2) Total harvested production of the certified crop (Kg)
• (1.8.2) Harvested yield of certified crop (Kg/ha) (Total production/total production area)
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
24
1.9 PREMIUM
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(1.9.1) Group management documents and communicates to group
members at least annually:
1) Prices and the Rainforest Alliance premiums received per kg (separate from other premiums, such as quality premiums)
2) Distribution of premiums received, specifying between
- Reasonable overhead
- In-kind benefits to group members (collectively and individually)
- Cash payments to group members
x
(1.9.2) Group members receive at least part of the premium as a cash
payment. Cash payment for group members is:
- Pro rata, based on volumes delivered
- Paid in a timely and convenient manner, at least before the new crop season
x
(1.9.6) Farm management premium expenditure also benefits workers. x
Improvements
N/A
Indicators
• (1.9.1) Amount of premium received by group and distribution of premium for overhead, in-kind
benefits, cash payments
• (1.9.2) % of the total premium transferred in cash to group members
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
25
CHAPTER 2: FARMING
Objectives and Outcomes:
This chapter focuses on the outcomes of sustainable agriculture, crop productivity and
profitability, and natural resources and ecosystem services. Included amongst these
outcomes are the goals of climate smart agriculture and food security: farms and groups
mitigate and adapt to climate change and increase their resiliency by implementing
sustainable practices and diversifying when possible.
The topics in the farming practices chapter of the Rainforest Alliance standard work together
to achieve these outcomes. Agronomic activities related to sustainable production
practices, soil fertility and conservation, integrated pest management, and safe
agrochemicals management support the outcome of sustainable productivity and
profitability, as well as natural resource conservation and ecosystem services. Here the
standard encourages locally relevant and context-specific practices to ensure that inputs
and natural resources are used efficiently, natural cycles are optimized to increase climate
change resilience, soil fertility and health is improved, pollinators are attracted, water
retention and management is improved, agrochemicals are minimized, and negative effects
on the environment are minimized. Finally, crop profitability is supported by post-harvest
practices, where farms and groups realize improved quality of crops to meet market
demand.
Implementation of criteria in this chapter form part of the foundation of a broader set of
sustainable agriculture activities, so when combined with other field, market, and advocacy
interventions, can support impacts at the sectoral and regional level.
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26
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
27
2.1 PLANTING AND ROTATION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.1.1) Certified planting materials are used for planting, rejuvenation
(including grafting) and renovation if possible. Varieties are chosen that are
resistant to pests and diseases and suitable for the climate during the lifetime of the plants.
x x
(2.1.2) New plantings ensure a well-established cropping system which takes
into account e.g.: - varietal requirements
- geographical, ecological and agronomic conditions
- diversification and intercropping
- planting density
x
(2.1.3) Non-perennial crops (including pineapple) are taken up in an
appropriate rotating cycle using diverse crops with different rooting depths
and soil use, in order to break pest and disease cycles, and to improve soil
cover and health.
x
2.2 PRUNING AND RENOVATION OF CROP TREES
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.2.1) In perennial crops, an adequate yearly or multi-year pruning cycle is
introduced in which all trees are pruned according to crop needs, agro-
ecological conditions and applicable pruning guidelines.
x
Improvements
(2.2.2) Certified crop is rejuvenated or renovated when needed according to age, disease or other causes, to maintain productivity.
x
Indicators
• (2.2.1) % of farm area with certified crops that is adequately pruned according to applicable
pruning "guidelines"
Smart meter (2.2.2)
• % of farm area with certified crops where adequate renovation/rejuvenation practices are
implemented
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28
2.3 GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISMS (GMOS)
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.3.1) The certified crop is not genetically modified (GMO).
x x
Improvements
(2.3.2) There are no genetically modified (GMO) crops grown on the
farm.
x x
Indicators
N/A
2.4 SOIL FERTILITY AND CONSERVATION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.4.1) Management conducts a soil assessment, and update it at least every
3 years. The soil assessment includes: - Erosion prone areas and slope
- Identification of areas with visual symptoms of nutrient deficiency
- Flooding and drainage conditions
x x
(2.4.2) Based on the soil assessment, soil management measures are identified
and included in the farm management plan to build up soil organic matter,
prevent erosion, increase on-farm nutrient recycling and optimize soil moisture.
The soil matrix (n.b. to be provided by the Rainforest Alliance at a later date) is
used as guidance for these measures.
x x
(2.4.3) Fire is not used to clear vegetation when preparing fields, unless it is
needed as a sanitation measure that is part of the IPM plan (see 2.5).
x
(2.4.4) Regular soil tests and (visual) leaf tests are done, including
macronutrients and organic matter, for perennial crops at least every 3 years,
and for annual crops at least every year
x x
Improvements
L1 (2.4.5) The soil of the production area is not left exposed but
protected with cover crops, crop residues or mulch. x
L1 (2.4.6) Fertilizers are applied in such a way that nutrients become
available when and where crops need them, and contamination
of the environment is minimized.
x
(2.4.7) Producers optimize the use of synthetic fertilizer.
x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
29
Indicators
Smart Meter (2.4.7)
• Average amount of synthetic fertilizer used (Kgs fertilizer per kg of product)
2.5 INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM)
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.5.1) The IPM strategy is developed and implemented. The strategy includes
the scope of the whole farm and processing facilities (if applicable). The
strategy is annually updated based on pest monitoring, implemented IPM
actions and agrochemicals application records (date, location and
incidence) and take changing climate conditions into account.
x
x
(2.5.2) Pests, diseases and natural enemies are monitored and recorded. This
includes:
- Regular checks in the field to verify levels of pests and diseases and to
identify upcoming pests and diseases in an early stage.
- Documentation of occurring pests and diseases and known natural enemies
and their levels, based on observations on the field as well as information
gathered from external sources.
- Documentation of treatment chosen.
x x
(2.5.3) Agrochemicals are only used when biological, physical and other non-
synthetic methods are proven not to be effective. When agrochemicals are
used, preference is given to low-toxicity and selective ones.
Treatment with chemicals is only done after reaching threshold levels as
advised by national research institutes.
Applications are done only at the impacted plants and areas (spot
application).
Calendar spraying is only done based on research or substantiated technical
recommendations.
x x
Improvements
L1
(2.5.4) Pesticides are rotated to reduce resistance. x
x
L2
(2.5.5) Non-related crops and beneficial animals/fauna are
planted/conserved in close proximity as a barrier to pests and
diseases, and to attract predators and parasites on pests.
x
x
(2.5.6) Producers reduce the use of pesticides, and abandon the use
of pesticides from the risk mitigation list.
x x
Indicators
• Smart Meter (2.5.6) Amount of pesticides used (Kg /kg of harvested product)
• Active ingredients of agrochemicals used that are listed in the Risk mitigation list
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30
2.6 AGROCHEMICALS MANAGEMENT
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(2.6.1) Agrochemicals included in the Rainforest Alliance Prohibited List or
prohibited by applicable law are not used. Only products are used that are
legally registered in the production country.
x x
(2.6.2) Agrochemicals included in the Risk mitigation list are only used when all
practices related to mitigating the particular risks (as identified in the
mitigation measures list) have been implemented.
x x
(2.6.3) Persons handling agrochemicals or hazardous materials are skilled and
trained in the preparation and application of agrochemicals and hazardous
materials. The training is provided annually and by an individual with
demonstrated professional expertise, skills, experience or credentials.
The persons handling agrochemicals are 18 years or older, and are not nursing
nor pregnant.
Safety information including the MSDS sheets is available in a language
understood by the persons working with the chemicals
x x
(2.6.4) Persons handling agrochemicals or hazardous materials
use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as prescribed in the
product's Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), safety tag, applicable law or
Rainforest Alliance basic PPE, whichever is more stringent.
The PPE is in good condition. Directly after use, PPE is cleaned, dried and
stored in a safe way.
The IMS or farm management provides to the agrochemicals handlers at least
the following elements: a site that provides privacy, water and soap; and
when feasible bathing facilities.
Persons handling agrochemicals or hazardous materials shower and change
clothes after application.
x x
(2.6.5) Agrochemicals are prepared and applied:
-according to the dosage as indicated by research institutes in the relevant
country
-according to the label, MSDS or security tag
-in appropriate weather conditions
-with appropriate equipment and techniques.
-considering the prescribed dosage and the application area
-respecting re-entry intervals, including warning signs
-informing potentially affected persons or communities in advance
Volume and dosage calculation methods are reviewed and refined in order
to reduce the surplus mix and agrochemicals overuse.
x x
(2.6.6) Spray drift reduction mechanisms between agrochemicals applied
zones and non-applied zones (including ecosystems and infrastructure) are
established and maintained; mechanisms include non-crop vegetative
barriers, non-application zones or other effective mechanisms.
x x
(2.6.7) Aerial application is only allowed under strict conditions. (Forthcoming
guidance to be developed by the Rainforest Alliance)
x x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
31
(2.6.8) Agrochemical purchases and applications are recorded. Records
include:
On date of addition to storage:
- product brand name,
- volume
- cost
- date of manufacturing/lot number of manufacturer
- date of expiration
On date of application:
-product brand name
-active ingredient
-date(s) of application
-location and size of field applied to
-quantity (dosage and volume)
-crop
-name of applicator
-objective.
The MSDS sheets are kept in the storage room.
Management facilitates record keeping for group members when needed.
x
x
(2.6.7) Agrochemicals, empty containers and hazardous materials are stored,
handled and cleaned in a way that negative impact on the environment and
human health are avoided.
Empty agrochemical containers and application equipment are triple
washed, and rinsing water is used in the last batch of the mix to apply to the
crop.
Prohibited, obsolete and expired agrochemicals are returned to the supplier or
local authority.
The surplus mix is disposed of in way that minimizes the negative impact on the
environment and human health.
x x
(2.6.11) Facilities for storing agrochemicals and application equipment are: -dry, clean, well ventilated and with a sound roof and impermeable floors; -safely locked and accessible only by trained handlers; -not stored with crop, food products or packaging material; -with visible safety warning and pictograms; - with a visible emergency procedure, and an eye-washing area
x x
(2.6.12) Empty agrochemical containers are disposed of through a collection
and recycling program or through another safe way. If there is no collection
system in place, containers are cut or perforated to prevent other uses.
x
x
Improvements
N/A
Indicators
N/A
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32
2.7 HARVEST AND POST-HARVEST PRACTICES
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
2.7.1) Pre-harvest intervals after application of chemicals are respected
x x
(2.7.2) Quality and quantity of product are conserved and optimized during
harvest and post-harvest practices and storage, including:
- Harvesting at the right time and interval to optimize quality
- Harvesting minimizing damages to the plant for future production (N/A for
banana) - Preventing contamination by foreign matter, microbes and pests and
damage due to humidity
- Using packaging materials suitable and approved for food products.
x x
Improvements
L1
(2.7.3) Measures are taken to respect the maximum residue levels
(MRLs) set by known destination countries of the product.
The measures include:
- Obtaining information on MRLsin the product.
- Actions in case MRLs are exceeded.
- Communication to the buyer if MRLs are exceeded.
x x
Indicators
N/A
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33
CHAPTER 3: SOCIAL
Objectives and Outcomes:
The standard’s social chapter seeks to empower farmers and workers to realize better
working and living conditions for themselves and their families, to guarantee equality and
respect for all and especially for the most vulnerable groups such as migrants,
children, youth and women; and in general to strengthen human rights protection in
agricultural production.
Sustainable agriculture is intrinsically linked with the livelihoods of millions of farmers, families,
and their communities. To support sustainable livelihoods, the Rainforest Alliance standard
establishes requirements related to labor rights, living wage, decent living and working
conditions, and support for local communities. These requirements align with the UN
Guiding Principles on Business and Human
Rights (UNGPs), relevant ILO conventions, and other multi-stakeholder concepts such as
living wage, developed in coordination with the Global Living Wage Coalition. We aim to
specially protect vulnerable groups like children, migrants and women.
There is no place in Rainforest Alliance Certified farms for human rights abuses such
as discrimination, forced labor, child labor, or all forms of workplace harassment and
violence, including sexual harassment and violence. For these four areas our certification
system will adopt an “assess and address” model, which goes much further than a simple
prohibition approach in its ability to drive change. We will require our Certificate Holders to
commit to compliance with all applicable laws and to respect internationally recognized
human rights standards. However, we acknowledge the high risk of certain labor violations
within agricultural supply chains, and therefore we will require producers and producer
groups to commit to continuous improvement, put a rigorous risk assessment and mitigation
system in place, and take immediate action on any known cases of discrimination, forced
labor, child labor, and workplace harassment and violence. This approach is further detailed
in criterion 3.1 and related annexes.
Furthermore, the certification system aims to enable certified smallholder producers,
agricultural workers and their families to have a decent standard of living and earn a Living
wage. To this end, the Standard enforces respect for workers’ rights to collective bargaining
and freedom of association, healthy and safe living & working conditions and access
to health care. Although the program contributes to better wages for workers by ensuring
that the minimum wage is paid and that there is progress towards a living
wage, the Rainforest Alliance recognizes the limitation of producers to unilaterally solve the
problem of low wages. In accordance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human
Rights, our approach is to bring transparency on prevailing wages in
agricultural production, commit certificate holders to continuous improvement
and dialogue, and allow companies to exercise shared supply chain
responsibility by avoiding to cause or contribute to the non-respect of living wages within
their own operations as well as seek ways to prevent or mitigate adverse impacts with regard
to insufficient wages.
Finally, farms and groups will support local communities and avoid negative impacts.
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
34
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35
3.1 ASSESS AND ADDRESS DISCRIMINATION, FORCED LABOR, CHILD
LABOR, WORKPLACE HARASSMENT AND VIOLENCE
Core requirements are implemented for all four (4) topics: “discrimination”, “forced labor”,
“child labor”, “workplace harassment and violence”.
Improvement levels are implemented for the topic(s) for which RA has NOT indicated a low
risk: “forced labor” and/or “child labor” and/or “workplace harassment and violence”.
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.1.1) Communication: management appoints a person/ committee
accountable for discrimination, child labor, forced labor, and workplace
harassment and violence. This person/committee provides awareness raising to
the management and staff on these concepts and the rights and responsibilities
under the standard.
x x
(3.1.2) Risk mitigation: for risks identified through the risk assessment (requirement
1.3), mitigation measures are implemented in accordance with the Rainforest
Alliance Mitigation Tool and included in the Management Plan.
x x
(3.1.3) Monitoring: a monitoring system is in place to verify whether the risk
mitigation activities are effective in reducing the risk(s) identified in requirement
1.3 and to identify incidents of discrimination, child labor, forced labor, and
workplace harassment and violence. The intensity of the monitoring system is
proportionate to the level of risk.
x x
(3.1.4) Remediation: known cases of discrimination, child labor, forced labor,
and workplace harassment and violence are remediated and documented in
accordance with Rainforest Alliance Remediation Protocol. Remediation
activities are included in the Management Plan.
x x
Improvements
L1
(3.1.6) In addition to the risk assessment in requirement 1.3, a more
in-depth risk assessment is carried out in the first year of certification
and mitigation measures are implemented and included in the
Management Plan in accordance with the Rainforest Alliance in-
depth Risk Assessment and Mitigation Tool. The risk assessment
involves workers’ organizations or unions, worker representatives,
vulnerable groups like women and migrants.
Management or committee provides training/awareness raising to
all workers on child labor, forced labor, and workplace harassment
and violence concepts, and on workers rights/responsibilities under
the standard.
x x
L2
(3.1.7) The accountable person/ committee seeks cooperation
with external actors, such as NGOs and government, to implement
risk mitigation, monitoring, and/or remediation.
The effectiveness of mitigation measures is evaluated with
involvement of unions, workers' representatives and vulnerable
groups.
x x
L3 (3.1.8) The accountable person/ committee uses the data
gathered through the monitoring mechanism to improve risk
mitigation and remediation.
x x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
36
Indicators
• (3.1.2) # and type of mitigation measures implemented (as specified by the Rainforest Alliance Risk Assessment and Mitigation Tools)
• (3.1.3) # of cases found per topic
• (3.1.3) Type of cases found per topic
• (3.1.4) # of found cases that have been remediated, explaining how they were remediated (per
topic)
3.2 FREEDOM OF ASSOCIATION AND COLLECTIVE BARGAINING
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.2.1) Management informs workers about their unrestricted right to form and
join a union or workers' organization of their own choice and to take part in collective bargaining, without prior authorization from the employer. The
information is communicated to workers through a written policy in a language
they understand, before the start of employment, and visibly displayed at all
times in the workplace.
x
x
(3.2.2) Workers are not subject to discrimination or retaliation for reasons of past
or present workers’ organization or union membership or activities.
Management does not punish, bribe or otherwise influence union members or
workers’ representatives. Records are kept of terminations, including the reason
for termination and worker's affiliation with a union or workers' organization.
Management does not interfere in internal affairs of workers’ organizations or
unions nor in elections or duties related to membership of such organizations.
x x
(3.2.3) Management grants worker representatives reasonable time off to
attend workers’ organization or union activities and provides agreed facilities
like an office and a telephone. Such organizations are provided with a notice
board and are granted access to facilities at the location of the farm. Notes of
meetings between management and such organizations are kept.
x x
(3.2.4) Where the right to freedom of association and collective bargaining is
restricted under law, management facilitates, and does not hinder, the
development of parallel means for independent and free association and
bargaining and dialogue with management.
x x
(3.2.5) Management raises awareness of workers on their rights to associate and
affiliate. Workers are offered a space for meetings on workers’ rights. Decisions
made at worker committee meetings and meetings between employer and
workers are communicated to the workforce.
x x
Improvements
L1
(3.2.6) Management provides capacity-building training on social
dialogue and workers’ rights.
x x
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37
Indicators
N/A
3.3 WAGES AND CONTRACTS
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.3.1) Permanent workers and workers who are employed for more than 3
consecutive months have an employment contract signed by both the
employer and the worker. Verbal agreements are acceptable instead of written
contracts, if they create legally binding employment relationships under
national law. The employer keeps records of verbal agreements with the main
terms.
Employment contracts contain at minimum: job description and title; working
hours; pay rate; overtime regulation; social benefits entitlements and
deductions; annual paid leave; sick leave; protections in case of illness, disability
or accident, and a notice period of termination.
x x
(3.3.2) Workers have access to information regarding:
- their rights and duties as stipulated in their employment contracts or verbal
agreements
- the type of deductions made to their wages
- regular hours worked
- overtime hours worked
- benefits, including in-kind benefits.
x x
(3.3.3) Workers receive at least the applicable minimum wage or the wage
negotiated in a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), whichever is higher. For
production, quota or piece work, the pay rate equals at least a minimum wage
based on a 48-hour working week. Information about this pay rate is transparent
and available for all workers. In those countries where the minimum wage is not
adjusted yearly, it is adjusted yearly for inflation based on the national inflation
rate.
x x
(3.3.4) Deductions from wages are permitted only if provided by national law,
fixed by CBA or with the expressed permission of the worker concerned. It Is not
permitted to make wage deductions as a disciplinary measure or to cover for costs of work related tools, equipment or gear.
In-kind benefits must be in accordance with national law, however they cannot
exceed 30% of the total remuneration.
x x
(3.3.5) Workers are paid regularly at scheduled intervals determined by the
employer, but at least monthly. Payments are documented with a pay slip or
other suitable wage record to allow verification.
x x
(3.3.6) Work of equal value is remunerated with equal pay without discrimination
e.g. on gender or type of worker. x x
Indicators
N/A
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38
3.4 LIVING WAGE
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.4.1) The total remuneration (wages plus cash and in-kind benefits) is assessed
against the Living Wage benchmark, as established by the Global Living Wage
Coalition (GLWC). The assessment is done by using the Rainforest Alliance Wage Assessment Tool. If a GLWC Living Wage benchmark is not available, the total
remuneration is assessed against either the national/regional living wage
estimate provided by official authorities, or the applicable World Bank Poverty
Line, whichever of the two is highest.
x
(3.4.2) If the total remuneration is below the used wage benchmark,
management increases the total remuneration towards the wage benchmark.
The annual increases and the timeline to reach the benchmark are based on a
wage improvement plan that is drafted in consultation with worker
representatives or an informal workers' committee. At a minimum, wages are
adjusted yearly for inflation based on the national inflation rate.
x
Improvements
(3.4.3) Total remuneration of workers (cash, wages, cash benefits, in-
kind benefits) is gradually increasing towards the applicable wage
benchmark.
x
Indicators
Smart Meter (3.4.3):
• The lowest wage paid, including in-kind-benefits, indicated as a percentage of the Living Wage or
Proxy.
• % of workers (per gender and type of worker) whose wage plus in-kind-benefits are below LW or
proxy"
3.5 WORKING CONDITIONS
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.5.1) Workers do not work more than eight regular hours per day, and forty-
eight regular hours per week. Workers have a break of thirty minutes after six consecutive hours of work and one day off after six consecutive days of work.
The regular work hours of the guards should not exceed fifty-six hours per week
on average per year.
Hours of Work (Industry) ILO - Convention, 1919 (No. 1)
x x
(3.5.2) Overtime work is voluntary and only permitted if:
- It is requested in a timely manner, at least 24 hours in advance
- It is not requested on a regular basis
- It is paid according to national law or CBA, whichever is higher. If there is no
law or CBA, it is paid at 1,5 times the regular wage level.
x x
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39
- The work can be carried out without increased risk to safety and health
- Workers have safe transport home after work
- Overtime does not exceed 12 hours per week, nor 6 hours per day
- In exceptional circumstances, e.g. peak production periods or changing
weather conditions, for a maximum period of 12 weeks per year, overtime can
be up to 24 hours per week, and workers can have maximum 14 consecutive
days of work.
- A record of the number of regular hours and overtime hours of each worker is
kept
ILO Conventions Hours of work 1919 No. 1 and No. 30
ILO Code of practice on safety and health in agriculture, 2010, art. 19.2
(3.5.3) Pregnant workers are entitled to paid maternity leave of at least 14
weeks, of which at least 6 weeks after giving birth. They can return to their job
after maternity leave on the same terms and conditions and without
discrimination, loss of seniority or deduction of wages.
Workers who are pregnant, nursing or have recently given birth are offered
flexible working schedules and work site arrangements. Breastfeeding women
have two additional 30-minute breaks per day and a room for breastfeeding
to nurture the child.
ILO Convention C183 - Maternity Protection Convention
x x
Improvements
Indicators
N/A
3.6 HEALTH & SAFETY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.6.1) Workers that work in hazardous situations (e.g. in difficult terrains or with
machines or with hazardous materials) use appropriate Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE). Workers are trained on the use of the PPE, and have access to
the PPE free of charge.
Workers may leave situations with imminent danger without seeking employer’s
permission and are not subject to penalties.
x x
(3.6.2) Machines have clear instructions on safe usage that can be understood
by the workers, and dangerous parts are guarded or encased. Workers using
machines are appropriately trained.
x x
(3.6.3) Women who are pregnant, nursing or have recently given birth are not
assigned to activities that pose risk to the woman’s, fetus's or infant’s health. In
cases of job reassignment, there is no reduction in remuneration.
Mandatory pregnancy tests are not allowed.
x x
(3.6.4) A clear and written accident and emergency procedure is in place. It
includes marked fire exits and evacuation maps. Management effectively
informs workers about this procedure. Clear and permanent warning signs are
placed at central locations to indicate potential hazards.
x x
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40
(3.6.5) Workers have access to sufficient and safe drinking water through one of
the following means:
- A public drinking water system, or
- Drinking water provided by the management, compliant with drinking water
parameters as set by the WHO, based on testing preceding each Rainforest
Alliance certification audit and any time that water contamination risks have
occurred.
Drinking water sources are protected and, water distribution mechanisms are maintained to avoid contamination.
Stored water is protected against contamination by a lid and is refreshed at
least once a day.
x x
(3.6.7) Sufficient, clean and functioning toilets and hand washing stations are
provided on production, processing, maintenance and office sites. These
facilities are separated by gender. Safety and privacy of vulnerable groups is
ensured, at least by well-lit and lockable facilities. Workers are allowed to
frequent these facilities when needed.
x x
(3.6.8) Trained first aid employees and appropriate first aid boxes are available
to workers for treatment of work-related injuries and emergency health care
free of charge. This includes transport to and treatment in a hospital if the
nature of the injury requires this. The boxes are placed at central locations of
production, processing, and maintenance sites. For emergency situations,
appropriate measures including showers and eye-washes are present.
x x
(3.6.9) The number and type of occupational health and safety incidents are
recorded (specified for men and women), and include incidents related to
pesticide and input use.
x
x
(3.6.10) Workers who regularly handle hazardous pesticides receive a medical
examination at least once a year. In case of regular exposure to
organophosphates or carbamate pesticides, the examination includes
cholinesterase testing. Workers have access to the results of their medical
examination.
x x
Improvements
L1
(3.6.12) Workshops, storage areas and processing facilities are safe
working environments. They are clean and organized, have sufficient
light and ventilation. There is a fire alarm, marked fire exits, firefighting
equipment and equipment to remediate spillage of materials. Workers
can leave the facilities freely in case of imminent danger. Only
authorized personnel have access to workshops, storage or
processing facilities.
x
x
L1
(3.6.13) Workers who cannot carry out their job because of temporary
health conditions, including pregnancy and nursing, are temporarily
reassigned to a different task without a penalty or a decrease in
compensation.
x
x
L2
(3.6.14) Basic training on occupational health and safety and hygiene
is provided to all persons working in workshops, storage areas, and
production and processing facilities. Hygiene instructions are visibly
displayed at central locations.
x
x
L3
(3.6.15) Workers have clean and safe eating areas. They are located
outside the bedrooms and away from bathrooms, wastewater runoff
channels and waste deposit areas. The eating areas have protection
against the sun and the rain.
x
x
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41
Indicators
N/A
3.7 HOUSING AND LIVING CONDITIONS
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.7.1) Workers and their families that are housed or lodged on-site have safe,
clean and decent living quarters taking into account local conditions. This
includes at least:
Location and construction:
-Safe construction.
-Protection against weather conditions including extreme climate conditions
such as floodings. Workers/ families are informed about emergency evacuation
plans and measures are taken to reduce the effect of those extreme
conditions.
-Fire Safety: marked fire exits, firefighting equipment and instructions, regular fire
drills.
-Protection against air pollution, surface runoff, sewage or other waste.
-Living quarters are separated from animal quarters.
Health and hygiene:
-Access to sufficient and safe drinking water through one of the following
means:
-a public drinking water system, or -drinking water provided by the management, compliant with drinking water
parameters as set by the WHO, based on testing preceding each Rainforest
Alliance certification audit and any time that water contamination risks have
occurred.
-Drinking water sources are protected and, water distribution mechanisms are
maintained to avoid contamination.
-Stored water is protected against contamination by a lid and is refreshed at
least once a day.
-Adequate sanitary and washing facilities. Safety and privacy of vulnerable
groups is ensured, at least by well-lit and lockable facilities
-Access to primary health care, including reproductive and maternal health
care.
-Health information on infectious disease, reproductive health and other
primary health concerns.
-Adequate sewage and garbage disposal systems.
-Cooking areas.
-Suitable smoke ventilation.
-Sufficient lightning (daylight and artificial).
-Dry Floors.
-Pest control.
Comfort and Decency:
-Families have separate rooms.
-Access to convenient and affordable day care services for workers’ children.
-Living quarters can be locked.
-Group accommodations for individual workers have separate rooms and
facilities for men and women. There is sufficient space between dormitory beds.
-Lockers.
-Electricity (in-house or nearby).
ILO_ R115 - Workers' Housing Recommendation, 1961 (No. 115)
x
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42
(3.7.2) Children living on-site and of school going age go to school. Children
either:
- Go to a school at safe walking distance,
- Go to a school at reasonable traveling distance, whereby safe transport is
provided if parents cannot bring the children and no safe public transport is
available, or
- Have on-site schooling of a recognized and equivalent level.
x
Improvements
L1
(3.7.3) Living conditions have improved by:
- Durable building materials
- Indoor toilets; connections to sewage mains if present
- Increased living space
- Cooking facilities
- Beds are not arranged in more than two levels
- Natural ventilation that ensures movement of air in all conditions of
weather and climate.
x
L2
(3.7.4) Living conditions have improved by:
- Sealed floors
- Rooms indicate the maximum allowed number of inhabitants
- Frequent inspections to ensure that the accommodation is safe and
clean. Inspection reports are documented.
x
L3
(3.7.5) Living conditions have improved by:
- Areas for drying clothes.
- At least one toilet, one shower, and one laundry sink per family.
- Group accommodation has at least one toilet per six persons.
- Access to rest and recreation areas.
x
Indicators
N/A
3.8 COMMUNITIES
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(3.8.1) Farmers respect legal and customary rights of communities, and respect
sites and resources of cultural and religious significance. Activities diminishing
the land or resource use rights or collective interests of communities are
conducted only after having received the communities’ free, prior and
informed consent (FPIC). The FPIC process includes:
- Negotiated compensation for the loss of use
- Documentation of the process including, maps that indicate the location,
boundaries, and planned uses of lands and other resources over which
communities have legal, customary, or user rights.
x x
(3.8.2) Legitimate right to use the land is demonstrated by ownership,
leasehold, or other legal documents or by documentation of traditional or
community use rights. The crop is farmed on land that is classified as
agricultural and/or approved for agricultural use.
Right to use the land is not legitimately disputed by groups of current or former
local residents or communities, including in relation to past dispossession or
x x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
43
forced abandonment. In the event of such a land conflict, legitimate right
may be demonstrated if a conflict resolution process has been implemented,
documented, and accepted by the affected parties.
Improvements
L1
(3.8.3) Management engages with local communities to identify
community concerns and interests related to the farm’s operations.
The management informs communities about the possibility to file
complaints through the grievance mechanism.
x
x
L2
(3.8.4) Management supports communities based on identified
needs and priorities, e.g. support for local schools, medical care or
environmental problems.
x
x
Indicators
N/A
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44
CHAPTER 4: ENVIRONMENT
Objectives and Outcomes:
Agriculture can have positive or negative effects on the natural environment, depending on
how it is managed. In the Rainforest Alliance standard, this chapter outlines pathways for
certified farms to have a positive impact on the planet, and its forests, biodiversity, water and
climate. By complying with the core criteria of this standard, farms also comply with the High
Conservation Values approach as set by the HCV Network.
The first topic in this chapter supports the outcome that farms and groups conserve,
maintain, and restore natural ecosystems and their services, and do not contribute to
deforestation, forest degradation and destruction of other natural ecosystems. The topic of
biodiversity and native vegetation support the outcome that farms and groups avoid
degradation of natural habitats, contribute to improving biodiversity, and help to prevent the
extinction of threatened species. Finally, in the topics of water, waste, and energy, farms and
groups reduce pollution, treat wastewater and minimize release of hazardous pollutants, and
reduce waste and energy through prevention, reduction, recycling and reuse.
Finally, throughout this chapter and the farming practices chapter, the RA standard works
towards the outcome of farms and groups adopting climate adaptation and resilience
techniques and supporting climate change mitigation.
Once again, the Rainforest Alliance recognizes that farm certification fits into a larger picture
of landscape conservation, where multiple strategies are needed to create lasting impact
for biodiversity and planet. The content of this chapter marks a starting point where certified
farms and groups can support this goal.
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45
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46
4.1 FORESTS, OTHER NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS AND PROTECTED AREA
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.1.1) From January 1st 2014 onward, forests or other natural ecosystems have
not been converted to agricultural production or other land uses. x
x
(4.1.2) Production or processing does not occur in protected areas or their
designated buffer zones, except where it complies with applicable law and
management plans for these areas, as defined by the relevant authorities.
x
x
Improvements
N/A
Indicators
N/A
4.2 CONSERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF NATURAL ECOSYSTEMS AND
NATIVE VEGETATION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.2.1) On-farm forests and natural ecosystems are conserved. Additionally,
the following forms of native vegetation are maintained:
a) Large native trees, except when these pose hazards to people or
infrastructure,
b) Existing agroforestry shade cover, except to the extent that it exceeds
Rainforest Alliance parameters for optimal shade coverage.
x x
(4.2.2) Management has inventoried and assessed High Conservation Values
(see definition) on the farm or group of farms and documented and
implemented a plan to protect these values through appropriate
management actions
Very large farms (>10,000 ha) have to determine if they have elevated risk by
using the Rainforest Alliance guidance (to be provided soon). If they have an
elevated risk, an HCV assessment has to be carried out by an HCVRN licenced
assessor.
x x
Improvements
L2
(4.2.3) Based on the map provided in 1.2.4 the farm establishes at
least 10% total native vegetation cover, or 15% total native
vegetation cover for farms growing shade-tolerant crops, through
one or more of the following:
• Establishment, restoration, or widening of riparian buffers;
• Restoration of natural ecosystem;
• Establishing or increasing native shade trees within agroforestry
systems;
• Incorporation of native vegetation as border plantings, live
fences, and barriers around housing and infrastructure, or in
other ways.
x x
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47
(4.2.4) Farms with shade-tolerant crops work towards agroforestry
systems with optimal shade coverage with native trees across the
farm or group of farms according to Rainforest Alliance parameters.
Such shade coverage counts toward the requirement in criterion
4.2.3.
x x
Indicators
• (4.2.3): Total area under native vegetation (and native vegetation as % of total farm area),
• Smart meter (4.2.4): Average % shade coverage across the product plots growing shade-tolerant
crops
• Smart meter (4.2.4): Average number of different native shade tree species per hectare across
the product plots growing shade-tolerant crops
4.3 RIPARIAN BUFFER AND CHEMICAL NON-APPLICATION ZONES
Med./
Large indiv.
farm
GM
Med- Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.3.1) Farms maintain existing riparian buffer zones around aquatic
ecosystems
x x
(4.3.2) Farms maintain a pesticide non-application zone or vegetative buffers
(see definitions) compliant with Rainforest Alliance parameters surrounding all
areas of human activity, or aquatic and terrestrial natural ecosystems.
x x
Improvements
(4.3.3) Farms establish and increase the existing riparian buffer zones
according to the required width parameters (see definitions)
x x
Indicators
• Smart Meter (4.3.3): % of aquatic areas with riparian buffer zones meeting Rainforest Alliance parameters for the width of such zones
4.4 PROTECTION OF WILDLIFE AND BIODIVERSITY
Med./
Large
indiv. farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.4.1) Animals are not hunted on the farm, except that vertebrate pest wildlife
may be hunted in accordance with the farms Integrated Pest Management
plan. Group members and workers are informed about these rules and trained
to identify and protect threatened species and other wildlife.
There is no hunting, killing, collecting or trafficking of threatened animals or
plants.
x x
(4.4.2) Wildlife is not held in captivity. Captive wild animals that were present
on the farm before the earliest certification date should be sent to professional x x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
48
shelters or may be held only for non-commercial purposes for the remainder of
their lives if treated in accordance with the five freedoms of animal welfare.
(4.4.3) Invasive species are not intentionally introduced or released. Existing
invasive species or their parts are not disposed of in aquatic ecosystems.
x x
(4.4.4) There are no animals used for processing coffee, while they are held in
captivity on the farm. No such animals are held captive for tourism purposes.
x x coffee
Improvements
L1
(4.4.5) Producers minimize human-wildlife conflicts that affect
workers, wildlife, crops, or farm assets with locally appropriate
mitigation measures. Measures can include siting of infrastructure,
fencing and corridors but should not unnecessarily restrict wildlife
mobility or access to resources like water. Workers are trained in
procedures and emergency responses for addressing crop damage
or wildlife attacks.
x x
L2
(4.4.6) Measures are taken to contain and reduce existing invasive
species.
x x
Indicators
N/A
4.5 WATER CONSERVATION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.5.1) Farm and Group management and members comply with the
applicable law for the withdrawal of surface or groundwater for agricultural,
domestic or processing purposes. If a license or permit is required, then the
extracted volume cannot exceed what is stated in the license/permit.
Irrigation practices are not threatening local water security.
x x
(4.5.2) When new irrigation or processing systems are established, they are
designed to optimize crop production while minimizing water use and water
waste, erosion and salinization.
x x
(4.5.3) Existing irrigation and water distribution systems are managed and
maintained to optimize crop productivity and minimize water waste, erosion
and salinization.
x
x
Improvements
(4.5.4) For operations that irrigate or use water for processing,
Management works on reducing water use per unit of product
produced or processed. Use and reduction are being recorded.
Future water needs and water availability are evaluated and targets
are set for improving water use efficiency.
x x
(4.5.5) Farms make use of water harvesting. x x
Version Medium/Large Farms June 2019
49
Indicators
Smart Meter (4.5.4):
• Water use per unit of product (L/Kg)
• % reduction in water use in comparison to year before (per kg of product)
4.6 WASTEWATER AND WATER QUALITY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.6.1) Wastewater from processing operations is not discharged into aquatic
ecosystems unless it meets the Rainforest Alliance industrial wastewater
parameters. Wastewater tests are conducted at all exit points and recorded
during operations. Central mills and mills in estates quantify the amount of water
used for processing operations).
x x
(4.6.2) Wastewater from newly established processing operations is not applied
to land with very sandy or highly permeable soils, where slopes exceed 8%, or
where the water table is seasonally or permanently high. Wastewater from
processing operations may not be applied to soil unless it has undergone
treatment to remove particulates and toxins and to reduce acidity and
complies with additional Rainforest Alliance industrial wastewater parameters
for irrigation. Wastewater from processing operations may not be mixed with
clean water for the purpose of meeting Rainforest Alliance industrial wastewater
parameters.
Existing processing operations take measures to mitigate the risks of soil erosion
or contamination.
x x
(4.6.3) Untreated sewage is not discharged into aquatic ecosystems. Human
sewage is not used in production or processing activities.
x x
Improvements
(4.6.4) Farm management (central mill management) increases
reuse of wastewater from processing operations and reduces
water usage.
x
x
(4.6.5) Advanced wastewater treatment technologies for energy
production and/or nutrient reuse are implemented. x
X
Indicators
• Smart Meter (4.6.4): • % of total amount of water utilized for processing, that is being reused
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50
4.7 WASTE MANAGEMENT
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
(4.7.1) Waste (including hazardous waste like chemical waste and biomedical
waste) is stored and disposed only in designated areas. Waste storage,
treatment and disposal practices do not pose health or safety risks to
producers, workers, other people, or natural ecosystems. Plastic waste is not
left on the land. Waste is never disposed of in natural ecosystems or aquatic
ecosystems.
x x
(4.7.2) Waste is not burned (except in incinerators technically designed for the
specific waste type).
x x
Improvements
(4.7.3) Farm management segregates waste streams (e.g.
recyclables, organics) based on available waste management, re-
use and disposal options and sets targets to reduce, re-use and
recycle waste.
x
x
(4.7.4) A processing facility is in place to process organic waste from
processing operations (e.g. coffee husk in wet mill and banana
pieces in collection center, palm husk, cacao husk) into energy
and/or organic fertilizers (e.g. coffee mills, banana collection
center).
x
x
Indicators
• Smart Meter (4.7.3): o # of waste categories reused/recycled o % organic wastes from processing composted and returned to field o % of farm waste (by volume) recycled
4.8 ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
N/A
Improvements
(4.8.1) Farm management (or Group Management) quantifies and
documents type of energy sources and associated machinery used
for production, processing, and domestic use. Farm sets targets for
increasing energy efficiency and for reducing dependency on non-
renewable energy sources.
x x
Indicators o Smart meter (4.8.1): Amount of energy used per kg of final product (Volume of fuel, KWh
electricity)
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51
4.9 GREENHOUSE GASES REDUCTION
Med./
Large
indiv.
farm
GM
Med-
Large
Crop
Core requirements
N/A
Improvements
(4.9.1) Farm management determines their GHG impact through
calculating a carbon footprint (CO2e) of their production and/or
processing operations based on energy, fertilizer, yield, wastewater
and land use change parameters as defined in the respective other
chapter criteria of the standard.
x x
(4.9.2) Farm management sets a GHG reduction strategy and
demonstrates that the overall footprint is reduced accordingly
against a defined target threshold.
x x
(4.9.3) Farm management compensates for its GHG emissions. x x
Indicators • Smart Meter (4.9.2):
o Carbon footprint per kg of final product
o % of carbon footprint reduction per year
• Smart Meter (4.9.3):
o Amount of CO2e emissions compensated per year (total and as % of CO2e emission)