Supporting smallholders in achieving more sustainable cocoa cultivation: the case of West Africa

Description

Sustainability initiatives, including associations, platforms and networks, voluntary sustainability standards, corporate and non-governmental and civil society initiatives, have all been developed as solutions to the multiple, long-running challenges facing cocoa growers and producers. Largely implemented by cocoa farmers and groups, these initiatives are often supported by traders, government agencies, certification organisations and other not-for-profit organisations. This chapter examines the different sustainability initiatives and their social, economic and environmental impacts on cocoa farmers, farms and ecosystems. The chapter provides detailed case studies of impacts in Ghana and Ivory Coast. The chapter also looks ahead to future research trends in this area and provides detailed guidance for further reading on the topic.

Table of contents

1 Introduction 2 Changes in cocoa production 3 Agronomic and environmental challenges 4 Social and economic challenges 5 Initiatives to support smallholders 6 Conclusion 7 Future trends 8 Where to look for further information 9 References