Sourcing
Security of supplies is a core business issue, especially, when agricultural production is under risk from changing weather patterns, water scarcity and unsustainable farming practices. This presents an operational and reputational risk to our business. Companies have an important role to play and need to assume responsibility for a range of issues in the supply chain, such as working conditions and fair incomes for growers & deforestation.
Our approach
Promote sustainable agricultural practices by working with external agencies, farmers/small growers.. We have developed a programme that will ensure:
- Farm owners and workers can earn an income they can live on and also improve their living conditions
- Fertility of soil is maintained
- Efficiency in water consumption
- Certification from independent agencies
Our Initiatives
Tea
We helped 9 estates in Nilgiri Hills to be certified for sustainable agriculture by the Rainforest Alliance in 2008. Another 10 estates in Assam are due to be audited for the Rainforest Alliance certification. These estates, collectively, supply 10 million kgs of certified teas to our parent Unilever. The Rainforest Alliance certification has brought about significant changes in the estates in terms of Social, Economic and Environmental factors:
- Workers are paid wages and perks higher than the minimum wage
- Workers have been trained on occupational health and safety
- Chemicals are handled better including safe storage
- Reduction in waste generation and scientific method of disposal ensuring no pollution of the environment
- Waste water filtration plants are set up to ensure that ground water is not contaminated
- Wild life habitats and ecosystems are protected
