Social and Environmental Commitment
Social and environmental development has been a key element of our operations since the beginning of the company. It is certainly the strongest legacy of the founder: Hugo Restrepo.
All areas of the company are constantly looking to incorporate internally and externally a culture of no waste, no degradation and environmental protection. A number of initiatives have been undertaken to reduce the use of plastic, the use of water and the use of pesticides. Overall to improve the carbon footprint of our operations.
Similarly, there is a constant search to improve the workers’ and farmers’ conditions, understanding that the sustainability of the company depends on the sustainability of the farmers’ livelihoods.
Our business model is based on contract farming with small farmers. We sign contracts with a set a fixed price per kg, a commitment to buy 100% of their yield and their committment to follow our technical asistance and sell to us 100% of their produce.
The pillar of quality assurance at field level is built upon the technical assistance provided to each farmer from seedlings to grinding. This includes capacity building workshops, weekly visits to inspect each field and direct guidance at field level.
We provide capacity building workshops in the use and safe application of pesticides, use of biological controls, use of permitted agrochemicals (as per the USA Persuap list and EU norms), and in general in the Good Agricultural Practices. In addition, we advise the use of drip irrigation in all crops and also plastic management at field level.
The fact that we buy 100% of the yield at pre-established prices which are not affected by the economic downturns of demand and supply is very important to sustain the livelihoods of our farmers.
As of today, in Peru and Colombia there are more than 600 families that benefit from our contracts.
Our Values
Commitment:
Support the farmer in creating a scheme for long term sustainability.
Responsibility with the environment:
Develop sustainable agricultural practices, as well as clean logistics and production practices.
Reciprocity:
Contribute value and cost effectiveness for the complete value chain –farmers, clients, suppliers, collaborators and shareholders.
Chili pepper crops have a considerable positive social impact, 70% of its costs are labor costs.
Both in Colombia and in Peru our crops have become a valued opportunity for employment generation.
