Honduran coffee farmers face challenges due to new European Union regulations aimed at preventing deforestation. These rules could threaten their access to the European market, which imports over half of Honduras's coffee exports. A new digital tracing platform has been developed to help smallholder farmers comply with these regulations and maintain their market access. This initiative has already allowed hundreds of farmers to ship coffee to Europe while ensuring their products meet sustainability standards.
• 85% of farmers may lose access to the European market without proper traceability tools.
• A digital platform has enabled hundreds of small-scale producers to comply with EU regulations.
• Collaborative efforts among various organizations have created an open-source tool that is low-cost for farmers.
• The successful shipment of compliant coffee demonstrates that transparent supply chains are achievable.
This initiative is crucial for the future of Honduran coffee. It not only helps farmers meet international standards but also promotes sustainable practices. By embracing technology and collaboration, the Honduran coffee sector can strengthen its resilience and ensure continued access to important markets. The success of this project could serve as a model for other countries facing similar challenges.
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