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The Rainforest Alliance's latest annual report reveals a significant shift in agricultural practices aimed at enhancing sustainability and resilience within multiple sectors. Supporting nearly 8 million farmers across over 6 million hectares of certified farmland in 62 countries, the report highlights a growing movement towards regenerative agriculture – an approach that seeks not only to sustain but to restore ecosystems and improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

A state of urgency

Santiago Gowland, CEO of the Rainforest Alliance, highlighted the urgency of transitioning to regenerative agriculture amidst alarming rates of deforestation and climate change. "Tropical forests are still falling at an alarming rate – ten football fields a minute – while many farming communities struggle to meet basic needs," he warned.

The report underscores the fact that approximately 500 million people live in farming areas near tropical forests, with 80% living in poverty. These forests serve as vital carbon stores, regulate global climate, support freshwater systems and maintain countless natural processes essential for planetary health. The implications for the food and beverage industry are profound, as the sustainability of agricultural supply chains is closely tied to the health of these ecosystems.

Why is regenerative agriculture becoming a priority for the world’s biggest food and beverage companies? Discover how global giants like ADM, Nestlé, PepsiCo, Unilever, Diageo, Danone, Heineken and others are embracing this transformative practice in our latest Research Roundtable here.

The impact on key agricultural sectors

The report details the significant impact of Rainforest Alliance certification across various agricultural sectors, each crucial to the food and beverage industry:

• Coffee: 1.8 million farmers across 1.9 million hectares in 29 countries, with a focus on improving quality and market access.

  
  

• Cocoa: Over 3 million farmers across 4.6 million hectares in 23 countries, addressing issues of child labour and sustainability.

  
  

• Tea: 2.4 million farmers across 1.4 million hectares in 22 countries, emphasising fair trade practices and environmental stewardship.

  
  

• Bananas: More than 158,000 farmers across 213,000 hectares in 19 countries, highlighting the need for sustainable production methods amid increasing consumer scrutiny.

These figures illustrate not only the scale of the Rainforest Alliance’s impact but also the critical role these sectors play in meeting the growing consumer demand for sustainably produced goods.

Powering communities

The report highlights the economic benefits of regenerative practices. For instance, in the Mount Kenya landscape, over 34,000 certified farmers transitioned to regenerative agriculture practices in 2024. This transition resulted in the planting of over 106,000 trees and the restoration of 106 hectares of degraded land, alongside the creation of 202 jobs – 64% of which went to women and youth. Such initiatives not only enhance environmental health but also foster economic resilience in vulnerable communities.

The commitment to smallholder farmers is particularly notable. With 99% of certified farms operated by those managing less than 10 hectares, the Rainforest Alliance ensures that the most vulnerable segments of the agricultural workforce receive necessary support.

Over 60% of the Rainforest Alliance’s expert staff are based in key landscapes or surrounding regions, working directly with rural communities to develop and implement solutions to systemic challenges in farming and forestry. This hands-on approach is yielding remarkable results.

For example, indigenous organisations in Peru have secured $1 million in government incentives aimed at reducing deforestation, while women's cooperatives in Guatemala have earned $347,900 while tackling childhood malnutrition. Such community-centred innovations are essential for creating sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both people and the planet.

Certification and regulatory compliance

The Rainforest Alliance is adapting to evolving market demands and regulatory landscapes. The recent introduction of Version 1.4 of its Sustainable Agriculture Standard reflects a commitment to streamlined requirements and improved data quality. This update is designed to help businesses navigate compliance with emerging regulations, such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

Notably, in May 2024, Europe received its first shipment of EUDR-ready coffee verified by the Rainforest Alliance, grown by High Range Coffee Curing in India. This proactive approach positions certified producers favourably in a market increasingly driven by sustainability criteria.

Measurable environmental progress

The report provides measurable evidence of environmental progress, highlighting that 14% more certified farms actively tracked pest populations compared to 2021 – a critical shift toward decreasing reliance on pesticides.

In Ghana's Sui River landscape, 65% of farmers surveyed invested in climate change adaptation, leading to the planting of over 583,000 tree seedlings and the registration of 54,000 trees. These initiatives not only contribute to biodiversity but also enhance the resilience of farming systems against climate impacts.

Curious about regenerative agriculture? Click here to read this exclusive article by Ethan Soloviev, chief innovation officer at HowGood, as he unpacks the financial hurdles and long-term economic advantages of going regenerative. He explores how businesses, governments and farmers can work together to close the funding gap – and build a more resilient, planet-friendly food future.

What does this mean for the food and beverage industry?

The shift towards regenerative agriculture has serious implications for the food and beverage industry. As consumers increasingly prioritise sustainability, companies that adopt regenerative practices can enhance their brand reputation and market position.

Here are several key impacts:

Supply chain resilience: Regenerative agriculture fosters biodiversity and soil health, leading to more resilient farming systems. This resilience is crucial for mitigating risks associated with climate change, such as crop failures and supply disruptions.

Quality enhancement: Regenerative practices often lead to improved soil health, which can enhance the quality and flavour of agricultural products. This is particularly relevant for premium segments of the market, such as speciality coffee and organic foods, where taste and quality are paramount.

Consumer demand for transparency: As consumers become more knowledgeable about food sourcing and sustainability, they increasingly seek transparency in supply chains. Companies that engage in these practices can provide verifiable proof of their sustainability efforts, appealing to this demand.

Market differentiation: Products sourced from regenerative farms can be marketed as premium offerings, allowing companies to differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace. This differentiation can lead to higher price points and increased consumer loyalty.

Compliance with regulatory standards: As governments impose stricter environmental regulations, companies that have already adopted regenerative practices will find it easier to comply with new standards, minimising potential legal and financial risks.

Collaboration opportunities: The transition to regenerative agriculture opens avenues for collaboration between companies, NGOs and local communities. This collaborative approach can lead to innovative solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.

A call to action

The Rainforest Alliance's 2024 report serves as a clarion call for the food and beverage industry to embrace regenerative agriculture as a pathway to sustainability. With the potential to restore ecosystems, enhance community livelihoods and ensure the long-term viability of supply chains, the shift towards regenerative practices is not only beneficial for the environment but is also a strategic imperative for businesses aiming to thrive in a rapidly changing market.

As the Rainforest Alliance continues to champion these efforts, the food and beverage sector must recognise the urgency of this transition. Aligning practices with the principles of regeneration and sustainability is essential for the future of agriculture – and the industries that depend on it.