Cargill has launched a South America Sustainable Soy Policy and an updated Forest Policy. Each will further commitments in moving towards a sustainable supply chain.
The Sustainable Soy Policy responds to concerns surrounding the production of soy in its contribution to deforestation. It outlines how Cargill will aim to ‘promote responsible production’ to positively impact on farmers and surrounding communities. Transparency will also be a key part to Cargill’s Soy Policy, through reporting of key metrics, progress and grievances.
Improvements to the supply chain are also addressed in the company’s updated Forest Policy by mapping the origin of goods, employing risk assessment to reduce levels of deforestation, and measuring progress across the supply chain.
Dave MacLennan, Cargill chairman and CEO said: “Farming and forests can – and must – co-exist.
“The world depends on agriculture to feed a growing population but also depends on the long-term viability of our natural resources. Leading sector-wide transformation means we can innovate, challenge what is possible and ensure that people and the planet have what they need for generations to come.”
Cargill will also work alongside industry partners, direct and indirect suppliers, customers, governments and farmer groups in order to deliver on commitments, the company said.
David Cleary, director of global agriculture at The Nature Conservancy, a charitable environmental organisation, commented on Cargill’s approach to improving the supply chain: “For more than 15 years, we have worked with Cargill and producers in Brazil to promote sustainable agricultural practice and protect forests.
“Comprehensive sustainability policies combined with action on the ground will help ensure we sustain natural landscapes, not only today but for years to come. There has been good progress but work must continue to end deforestation.”
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