Long-term partnerships
As a producer of organic chocolate, we naturally care not only about the environmental aspect, but also the human aspect. That is why we are constantly working, together with our partners, to improve living and working conditions in selected projects. Naturally, we always maintain the necessary critical and self-reflective perspective on our actions. After all, we do not presume to know exactly what is best for the local producers. But – and this is crucial – we listen carefully and take action where it is most needed.
Our cocoa comes from Latin America – the Dominican Republic and Panama. It is grown 100% under controlled organic conditions. One type of cocoa is also grown according to the strict biodynamic guidelines of Demeter. This philosophy understands farms as a fully holistic regenerative and self-sustaining cycle, in which humans, plants, animals and the soil all work together as a living farm organism. A particularly appreciative approach to nature and the soil, but also to the people working on the farm, is an integral part of the Demeter philosophy.
Unlike in the West African cocoa regions, exploitative child labour is not a significant problem in the countries of Latin America. The children usually attend school. Nevertheless, it is important to care about this problem through targeted preventive work and to nip possible dangers in the bud. We have been doing this for years with our prevention project “KIDS for KIDS”.
In addition, we are currently working with our partners in the Dominican Republic on a programme for organically produced cocoa with additional cultivation requirements. This programme will initially benefit a group of around 150 cocoa-producing families and will focus on the (re)afforestation of farms, training in organic farming and access to drinking water. Naturally, the project also includes the payment of additional premiums. The programme is initially scheduled to run for six years and will be closely monitored by us.
Please click on the following button to read more about the background and current progress of our “Sustainable Organic Cocoa Project”.
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