ISO 34101 is a multi-part standard titled:
“Sustainable and traceable cocoa”
It is designed to improve the sustainability and transparency of cocoa farming and trade by setting minimum requirements and good practices. The standard is composed of several parts:
Requirements for sustainability management systems
Defines the management framework that cocoa organizations must implement, including traceability, continual improvement, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
Performance requirements
Focuses on social, economic, and environmental sustainability criteria, such as fair labor practices, farmer incomes, soil health, and biodiversity.
Requirements for certification schemes
Specifies the rules for certification bodies, audit processes, and conformity assessment systems.
Guidance for the development of sustainability management systems
Provides detailed guidance on how to apply the management system requirements from Part 1.
The cocoa industry faces increasing scrutiny over issues such as:
ISO 34101 addresses these problems by offering a structured, measurable, and certifiable approach to sustainable cocoa production and trade.
Implementing ISO 34101 allows cocoa producers, cooperatives, and buyers to:
Ensure the traceability of cocoa beans from farm to buyer.
Promote soil conservation, biodiversity, and reduced chemical use.
Encourage fair wages, decent working conditions, and farmer training.
Meet buyer requirements for sustainable sourcing and ethical certification.
Address legal, reputational, and operational risks related to unsustainable practices.
By aligning with ISO 34101, your business gains several strategic advantages:
Certification proves your commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing.
Many international buyers now require ISO 34101 or equivalent certification.
Build long-term, transparent, and value-based relationships with farmers and cooperatives.
Minimize legal exposure and reputational damage from non-compliant practices.
Contribute to your corporate sustainability targets and UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Support training, tools, and methods that raise yields and income for smallholder farmers.
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