The UK Sustainable Commodities Initiative (UKSCI) and its industry forum were established to develop sustainable and resilient UK commodity supply chains, aiming to drive a positive global impact, including ensuring living incomes for producers. Initially, the focus was on ensuring UK supply chains were free from deforestation and conversion, an objective now increasingly supported by regulations in markets such as the UK and EU.
In 2023, the UKSCI expanded its remit beyond deforestation and conversion to address social issues associated with a wide range of forest-risk commodities. In collaboration with industry and the UK government, the UKSCI is exploring how British companies can ensure their supply chains deliver a living income to producers. This involves engagement with partners and a dedicated working group of companies from the cocoa sector, who are leading efforts to promote living incomes on the global sustainability agenda.
Living income is crucial for producers as it ensures they can afford a decent standard of living, covering essential needs such as food, housing, education, and healthcare. The UKSCI’s focus on living income highlights the importance of fair compensation for producers, which in turn supports more sustainable and ethical supply chains. By addressing these social issues, the UKSCI aims to create a more equitable and just commodity market.
Efeca supports these efforts by producing resources that strengthen company policies and promote widespread adoption of best practices. These resources include a living income factsheet, an action guide, and commodity-specific briefings.
If you would like to learn more or get involved, please contact info@efeca.com.