New UTZ code is more responsive

A SIMPLER structure will enable more farmers to join the UTZ Certified programme and label for sustainable farming of coffee, cocoa and tea. The new UTZ code of conduct focuses on management practices and elaborates more on climate change adaptation. There is also greater emphasis on measures for preventing, monitoring and remediating child labour, increasing women’s participation, and reaching more smallholders.

More focused on management practices in the farm, the new code is expected to lead farmers to take informed decisions while increasing farm profitability over the long term and increase their social and economic resilience. Farmers will also be guided in adaptation measures to prepare them for unpredictable weather events in tropical areas due to climate change. (UTZ: www.utzcertified.org)