Sector change

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges facing the world today. For the farmers and producers we work with, a lack of understanding on how to adapt could mean the loss of their business and their income. Meanwhile, bad agricultural practices such as slash and burn make a massive contribution to climate change.

Women still earn less than men, and have less access to education, healthcare, training and finance. They are also most often responsible for childcare, handling livestock and gathering food, fuel and water – time consuming traditional roles with little monetary value.

Sadly, child labor still exists in many countries, often in the agricultural sector. Only when it’s been fully eradicated can a world where sustainable farming is the norm become a reality. It’s a tough challenge! That’s why we work with a powerful coalition of like-minded organizations and governments to fight child labor from every angle.

At UTZ, we believe it is unacceptable that anyone in this world should have to choose between whether to send their children to school or whether to eat. A living wage is essential to ensuring a decent standard of life for farmers, producers and their families, meaning they never have to face choices like this.

Productivity is a sure sign of a successful business, and increased productivity is a core part of UTZ’s vision for a more sustainable world. We support all our farmers and producers to grow better crops in order to earn a better income and access better opportunities and markets.

Smallholder farmers often struggle to achieve a sustainable livelihood. They face high costs and low prices, and it can be difficult to access the inputs and services that would improve their business. A strong, professionally run farmer group helps overcome these challenges.