Comparison of three labels:

Fairtrade

Rainforest Alliance

UTZ Certified

July 2010

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 1 Table of Contents

Comparative table for coffee labels...... 3

Executive Summary...... 6

Methodology...... …...... 8

General information...... …...... 9

Standards...... …...... 15

Environmental criteria ...... 18

Social criteria ...... 20

Economic criteria ...... 22

Application process...... 25

Inspection...... 27

References...... 31

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 2 Comparative table for coffee labels 1

Fairtrade UTZ CERTIFIED Administrator Fairtrade Labelling Sustainable UTZ CERTIFIED Organisation (FLO) Network (SAN) Starting point / Founded to give farmers Born out of a protective reflex Founded out of demand for Concept from the South fair market for the (rain)forest and for certification of plantations access and to strenghten biodiversity. (coffee) and being able to sell their position, thus making it on a larger possible for them to make a scale. proper living. Initiators Dutch NGO and a number of A group of people with very Coffee producer in Mexican coffee farmers. different backgrounds. Guatemala and a Dutch company(Ahold). Objective Improving the position of the To protect biodiversity in an To combine quality with a (small) farmers through the area as large as possible. responsible production strengthening of process. cooperatives or producer organisations. Target group At origin only small farmers, No specific target group. At origin aimed at plantations, afterwards also opened to later opened up for small plantations in some products farmers. (, fresh fruits, flowers...) Standards ISEAL compliant 2 ISEAL compliant ISEAL compliant

Composed of mandatory and An average score of 80% Consists of mandatory and progress criteria which must must be obtained on all progress criteria which must be fulfilled after a fixed criteria, of which 14 are be fulfilled after 1-4 years, period. mandatory. On all other and optional criteria (<15%). criteria, a minimum score of 50% must be obtained.

Criteria are not always Criteria are precise and often Criteria are not always quantifiable. quantified. quantifiable.

Fairtrade has one standard Rainforest Alliance has one UTZ CERTIFIED has a for small farmers which standard for all different crops standard for each crop. covers most products.3 For (for some countries, these are some products there are supplemented with (additional) standards for interpretation guides.) other producer setups. Social criteria Meets key ILO-standards, Meets key ILO-standards Meets key ILO-standards.

1 This table is the summary of a larger desk study of the three labels with regard to coffee (see farther, from p. 8). The summary focuses on the differences between the labels whereas the complete study reveals also the similarities between the labels. The study did not conduct any field work and is based on a review of the standards and website of the labels together with interviews with the different label organizations. Conclusions on the implementation of the standards are therefore not part of the scope of this study. 2 ISEAL is an international non-profit organization that codifies best practice for the design and implementation of social and environmental standards initiatives. 3 For some products (tea, flowers...) there is also a standard for hired labour and contract production.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 3 (from the supplemented with criteria supplemented with criteria specifications) for sick leave, maternity about land-rights. leave, social security and pensions. Environmental Extensive environmental Extensive environmental Basic environmental criteria criteria (from criteria in production to ban criteria in production to ban based upon integrated the GMO’s and shifting GMO’s and shifting cultivation, cultivation. specifications) cultivation. supplemented with criteria regarding the protection of biodiversity and environment. Economic There is a minimum There is no specified There is no specified criteria (from purchase price installed, that minimum price. Farmers must minimum price. Farmers must the aims at covering the costs of negotiate their own sales negotiate their own sales specifications) sustainable production for prices. prices. If a better price than the producer. If world market the market price is prices are higher, producers negotiated, this is called the negotiate, but receive never “UTZ PREMIUM”. less than the minimum price.

Fairtrade has a Fairtrade premium for each sold product which is to be used for the social, environmental and economic development of the producers/workers and their communities.

On request, up to 60% of the value of the contract must be pre-financed.

No criteria regarding the No criteria regarding the Extensive quality production process. production process. requirements for the various stages of the production process. Labelled 100% of the product must be 90% of the product must be 90% of the product must be coffee Fairtrade certified. certified. 4 certified.

With indication of the percentage (30-90%) products may wear the label. Supervision Announced annual Announced annual inspection. Announced annual inspection. inspections supplemented with unannounced inspections of 10% of the certificate holders.

Audited by one independent Several local independent Several independent inspection organisation FLO- inspection-organisations inspection-organisations. CERT separated from FLO. separated from the SAN- members of the umbrella Rainforest Alliance.

4 From July 1st 2010 it will be 100%.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 4 FLO-CERT is ISO65 Not all ISO65 accredited. All ISO65 accredited. accredited. Traceability Inspection of the entire Inspection of the entire chain- Inspection of the entire chain- chain-of-custody of-custody of-custody Final verdict A reliable multistakeholder A reliable multistakeholder A reliable multistakeholder initiative with particular initiative with particular initiative with particular attention to economic and attention to the environment. attention to the production social criteria. process.

The label ensures good The label ensures good The label ensures good working conditions, a limited working conditions and working conditions, a limited impact on the environment actively contributes to a better impact on the environment and it offers a (financial) environment and increased and it provides quality added value to the producer biodiversity. assurance regarding the and his community. production process.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 5 Executive Summary

The three labels each have different origins, resulting in very different approaches. Fairtrade aims to strengthen the small farmer so that he can choose his own future and way to develop. Rainforest Alliance is the result of a protection reflex for the (rain)forests and biodiversity. UTZ CERTIFIED arose from the concern to produce a quality product in a sustainable manner.

This is reflected in the specifications. Fairtrade views everything from the producers’ point of view, Rainforest Alliance looks at the relationship between producer and environment and UTZ CERTIFIED pays particular attention to the end product and the production stages.

It may come as no surprise that for coffee only UTZ CERTIFIED has criteria for the quality of the end product. Just as it’s no surprise that Rainforest Alliance scores best on the environmental front followed by Fairtrade, while UTZ CERTIFIED is less strict on this front.

All labels have high scores for social criteria and there are not many large difference between the labels. In contrast with the other labels, Fairtrade asks to follow the legislation on social security and pensions. Furthermore it has additional criteria regarding sick leave. Both UTZ CERTIFIED and Fairtrade do not have a regulation concerning holidays. One important difference is that only Rainforest Alliance has a clause regarding land rights.

The biggest differences can be found in the economic criteria. Fairtrade scores significantly better on this front than the other labels. Fairtrade is the only label that provides a minimum price which aims at covering the costs for sustainable production completely. In addition, upon request of the producer, pre-financing of sales up to 60% of the contract value is also an option. Furthermore, there is also an established Fairtrade premium with which producers can invest in community projects. With UTZ CERTIFIED, farmers can negotiate their own premium, there is no established minimum for this. Rainforest Alliance has no premium, nor does it have a minimum price.

In addition, Fairtrade also imposes criteria for the establishment and functioning of cooperative farmers’ organisations. Other labels have no criteria for this.

It should be noted that Rainforest Alliance is the only label with which not all criteria are mandatory. In order to obtain the label, a total score of 80% must be reached on all criteria. For all non-mandatory criteria, a minimum score of 50% must be achieved.

With Fairtrade, all criteria are mandatory. For some criteria (progress criteria) the producer has a fixed period to meet the criteria. In addition to mandatory criteria, UTZ CERTIFIED also has progress criteria which must be achieved within 1 to 4 years. In addition, UTZ CERTIFIED has a number of optional criteria (<15%).

Fairtrade is the only label that requires all single ingredient consumer goods (of which coffee) to be 100% certified in order to be able to carry the label. For UTZ CERTIFIED and Rainforest Alliance, this is 90%. In fact, the latter even allows 30% certified production, as long as this is indicated on the label.

These differences in criteria have to do with the different target groups. With its strong economic criteria, Fairtrade primarily addresses small farmers. UTZ CERTIFIED primarily addresses plantations, given its focus on production factors. Rainforest Alliance seeks nature preservation and highlights the area that can be certified without approaching specific target groups.

For the preparation of specifications, the traceability of the products, the application procedure and the chain-of-custody there are hardly any differences between the labels. All systems aim to work along the lines of international standards for as far as possible.

For both Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance, an independent inspection organisation was separated from the original label organisation. AS a result, the applicants can only summon one inspection organisation. UTZ CERTIFIED works with several independent inspection organisations that were never tied to the original label organisation. This ensures more independence of the inspection organisation(s). All inspection organisations of UTZ CERTIFIED and Fairtrade (but not all of Rainforest Alliance) are ISO65 certified. ISO65

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 6 ensures independent and quality supervision of the specifications. The functioning of the inspection organisations fell outside the scope of this research.

Leading to the conclusion that the three most common labels with regard to sustainable coffee meet the strictest standards (on paper) regarding inspection, traceability and transparency. Although all labels have strict standards regarding working conditions, there are great differences in other fields, thus enabling consumers to opt for a specific approach to agriculture. UTZ CERTIFIED stands for quality monitoring and a production oriented approach of coffee cultivation. Rainforest Alliance has extensive criteria with regard to nature preservation. Fairtrade chooses for an agriculture in which producers are the main focus. Fairtrade is further distinguished by its (financial) support for smaller farmers, providing them with market access and by making subsistence possible for them and their community.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 7 Methodology

To perform the study we initially used documents available on the websites of the different labels. For general information, history, application procedures ... we examined the site of the label organization and / or the associated inspection-organizations. We supplemented with information gathered from interviews with the label- and inspection-organizations.

As a basis for substantive comparison of the labels we exclusively used the following standards and related documents:

Fairtrade • Generic Fairtrade standards for Small Producers' Organizations. Version: 15.08.2009

Rainforest Alliance • Standard April 2009.

UTZ CERTIFIED • UTZ CERTIFIED Good Inside Code of Conduct For Coffee. Version 1.1 - January 2010.

These standards referred to several other documents available on the websites of the three labels, which were also consulted. For all the above documents, no specific source references were made. If external sources were consulted, the source is always specified.

Given the differences between the labels and the accompanying standards, it was impossible to demarcate the chapters according to the logic of all three labels. The classification in the following chapters is on behalf of the author and is made according to his logic and priorities: • general information • standards • social criteria • environmental criteria • economic criteria • application process • inspection

In all chapters the same strategy is used. All documents are organized into tabular form according to relevant subcategories. At the end of each chapter a review is to be found.

If certain information was not found in the literature at hand, the three different label organizations were contacted for more information. In addition, FLO-CERT was contacted with questions about the inspection of the Fairtrade label. Nearing the end of the research, the three label organizations were asked to provide input on the draft version of the final report.

It was always asked to substantiate this information with evidence. If not, it will be noted that it was a verbal, non binding statement.

The labels were only reviewed on the topics coffee and Small Producers Organizations. Due to time constraints other products and standards were not treated.

Finally, this comparison does not make any claims about the checks carried out in the field. All information relating to the inspection was collected on the basis of literature and cannot be used to verify if the established procedures are actually followed.

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Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Manager Fairtrade Labelling Sustainable Agriculture UTZ CERTIFIED Organisation (FLO) Network (SAN) History In 1964 during the UN Rainforest Alliance was UTZ CERTIFIED arose last Conference on Trade and founded in 1986 by a group of century (1997) from the Development (UNCTAD), the people with different collaboration between coffee foundation for backgrounds who were producers in Guatemala was laid: punctual financial concerned of the (under whom Nick Bocklandt) aid must be replaced by a disappearance of the and a Dutch company genuine trade policy that rainforest. (Ahold). offers the southern producers an advantageous In the early days, the focus UTZ CERTIFIED is born from access to the northern was therefore especially on the need of coffee brands to markets. environmental protection, find access to the sustainable "Trade, not aid" became the specifically to protect the coffee market as well and the slogan for Fair Trade. rainforest and on social demand from large coffee criteria. This led to the plantations to be able to be a In 1988, with the aid of standard "smartwood" for certified producer of Dutch NGO Solidaridad and wood products (1989). responsible coffee. in cooperation with Mexican coffee farmers the first Early 90s, the focus moved to In the beginning it was known Fairtrade labeled coffee was sustainable tourism and the as UTZ Kapeh. In 2007 the brought on the market. In the first agricultural product: name change to UTZ years following the initiative bananas. Then came coffee, CERTIFIED. was quickly replicated in cocoa and ultimately a whole several European and North range of other agricultural Some plantations had American countries. products. become too large to participate in Fairtrade In 1997, Fairtrade Labelling These three categories (wood, certification, but still wanted Organizations International tourism and agriculture) are to market their (FLO) was founded. This the three main categories of . The idea organization brings together the label. behind the creation of the the various "Labelling label was to create a Initiatives" and harmonizes In 1991 the Conservation recognition for responsibly the Fairtrade standards. Agriculture Network was produced coffee and allow formed (later it becomes the brands to react to the ever In 2002 the international Sustainable Agriculture increasing demand for this Fairtrade label was launched Network). Their main tasks type of coffee. to raise the profile of are to develop and monitor Fairtrade and simplify the standards for agriculture and As a basis for drawing up the import / export of Fairtrade the promotion of sustainable criteria, EUREPGAP 5 was products. agriculture in South America. used.

In 2004, FLO splits into two SAN owns the various Since 2004 this initiative is independent organizations: standards, while Rainforest supported by the Dutch NGO Alliance owns the label. Solidaridad. FLO is responsible for developing standards, and FLO-CERT, which handles inspection and audits.

5 EUREPGAP was formerly known as GLOBALGAP.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 9 Mission The mission of Max The mission of the Rainforest UTZ CERTIFIED wants to Havelaar (Fairtrade) is to Alliance is to protect the independently make the unite disadvantaged ecosystems. interaction between coffee producers and consumers, The main values are: clean producers and coffee promote fair trade, water and clean air, respect roasters less complicated. strengthen the position of for biodiversity, flora and disadvantaged producers fauna, reduction of waste and UTZ CERTIFIED's mission and by this allow them to reducing the greenhouse is to develop a standard for have more control over their effect. environmentally and life and to fight poverty. socially responsibly Rainforest Alliance also wants produced products. to create a sustainable livelihood for local The focus is on the communities dependent on production of coffee and land use. factors such as quality and environment play an important role.

Vision FLO believes that trade can Rainforest Alliance wants to UTZ CERTIFIED's vision is be a driving force for reshape the current business to produce quality coffee reducing global poverty and model into a more sustainable with particular attention to stimulating sustainable one. the professionalization of development. This is only Rainforest Alliance believes the farmers. possible with increased joint cooperation is the way transparency and equal towards success. In addition, the vision of treatment of all participants. UTZ CERTIFIED is aimed The emphasis is on: supply of to set up a production that FLO believes further that if durable goods, equal access meets the expectations of the efforts of farmers are for all (both large and small all stakeholders (farmers, supported they can take their producers), financial processors, distributors and lives into their own hands incentives for sustainable consumers). allowing them a view on a products, and support and sustainable future. regulation by the governments. In FLO's vision collaboration between stakeholders is very important and they are constantly looking for partners who have a similar vision. Objectives The goal of Fairtrade is to Rainforest Alliance aims to UTZ CERTIFIED has the create a world in which all protect biodiversity in an area following goals: producers can enjoy a life as large as possible, reduce 1) The professionalization where they can reach their the ecological footprint of of farmers from the South full potential and have full producers and integrate their by facilitating access to control over their own operations into the knowledge on professional future. environment (both in social agriculture. and ecological terms). FLO believes that its vision 2) Increase the credibility of is supported by consumers, Rainforest Alliance wants to the participating producers businesses and the bring sustainably produced through the integration of community and hopes to products to businesses in a the ILO conventions and remodel international trade global market where the the Global Good to create a fairer system with demand for these products is Agricultural Practices their support. increasing. (GlobalGap) in the standard.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 10  3) Add value to the coffee brands and allow them to communicate about responsibly produced coffee. Baseline Fairtrade criteria are Rainforest Alliance focuses UTZ CERTIFIED focuses primarily focused on mainly on the environmental primarily on the final strengthening the position of criteria and approaches most product. the small farmer and his issues from this perspective. community. This leads to a less On the second place comes producer-oriented approach Fairtrade has one standard the social dimension, but a more Western for all products of small addressing good working approach to agriculture farmers, including conditions and the local where quality plays an coffee. Some products have community. important role. additional standards. 6 There is attention for good Especially social and working conditions and economic criteria are very environment without detailed in the standards. emphasizing.

There is also attention for the environment, but without emphasizing it. Organization FLO is part of FINE, an The Rainforest Alliance is the UTZ CERTIFIED has no informal organization of the secretariat of the Sustainable constituency but is an four major Fair Trade Agriculture Network (SAN), a initiative of several networks: coalition of eight organizations that are part • FLO environmental organizations of the board of directors. • World Fair Trade from South and Central Organization (WFTO) America, recently In addition, UTZ • Network of European World supplemented by the Nature CERTIFIED is supported by Shops (NEWS) Conservation Foundation from grants from a range of • European Fair Trade India. organizations like Association (EFTA) Solidaridad, Stichting Doen, Hivos, Irish Aid, ... FLO is supported by 24 Solidaridad is also part of members. 19 members the board of directors. represent the “Labelling Initiatives”. These are responsible for the promotion of Fairtrade and the granting of the label in the countries concerned. In Belgium, this is Max Havelaar.

There are 3 networks of producers. Each continent (Asia, Africa, South / Central America) has its own representative.

Finally there are two associate members. These

6 For some products (tea, flowers, …) there is also a standard for “hired labour” and “contract production”.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 11  are the Fairtrade organizations of Mexico and South Africa. Revenue FLO earns its revenues Rainforest Alliance earns its UTZ CERTIFIED earns (2008) from: revenues from: revenue from: • grants: 42% • grants: 30,9% • grants: 47% • services 7: 52% • membership: 9,1% • services: 42% • other: 6% • services: 32,2% • other: 11% • donations: 20,7% • other: 8,1% Board of The Board comprises the There are no proportions The Board of Directors Directors following representatives: defined for the composition of consists of 5 to 7 members the board of with a balance between 5 persons from the Labeling directors. Members are asked producers and Initiatives 8 to reside the board. consumers. None of the board members represents 4 persons from the networks Currently there are 27 an organization. They are of producers (at least one members from various sectors appointed as experts in the member of each continent) of society. interest of UTZ CERTIFIED.

2 representatives of certified dealers.

2 external experts. Target Originally only small farmers No specific target group. Originally only for but subsequently also made plantations, but afterwards available to certain made accessible to small plantations (tea, fresh fruit, farmers. flowers ...). Distribution by Africa: 31% Africa: 49% Africa: 13% continent 9 Central / Latin America: Central / Latin America: 41% Central / Latin America 57% Asia & Oceania: 8% 78% Asia & Oceania: 12% Asia & Oceania: 9%

7 Services includes the license fees. 8 There are 19 Labelling Initiatives who are responsible for the attribution of the licenses and the promotion of Fairtrade on there territory. For Belgium this is Max Havelaar Belgium. 9 Commerce équitable & durable: tant de labels et de systèmes de garantie... Comment s'y retrouver? Agence Belge de Développement. 2010.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 12  Products FLO has standards for the Rainforest Alliance has UTZ CERTIFIED has following products: standards in addition to wood standards for three different and agricultural tourism for the products: • Coffee following products: • Cocoa • Coffee • Tea • Coffee • Cocoa • Dried fruit • Cocoa • Tea • Cotton • Ferns and flowers • flowers and plants • Vegetables and fruits • Bananas (bananas, citrus, pineapple, • Fresh fruit and vegetables mango, avocado, guava, • Juices nuts,...) • Spices • Tea 11 • Gold • Honey • Nuts • Quinoa • Rice • Dry beans and vegetables • Sugar • wine grapes • Sports Balls

The label may also be used The label may also be used on products with multiple on products with multiple ingredients. ingredients.

Worldwide there are For coffee there were currently 746 Fairtrade currently 649 licenses certificates issued to issued. This corresponded to producers for coffee. more than 530,000 hectares. For coffee there were According to the Coffee According to the Coffee currently 310 licenses barometer 10 78.500 tons of barometer 62,000 tons of issued counting for 90,000 coffee was sold with the coffee were sold with the producers. Fairtrade label (figures Rainforest Alliance label (2008 2008). figures). According to the Coffee barometer 77.500 tons of coffee were sold with the UTZ CERTIFIED label (figures 2008). Statute Privately collectively Privately collectively Privately individually controlled controlled controlled Annual report Available on the website Available on the website Available on the website

10 Coffee barometer 2009, Tropical commodity coalition. 11 A complete list can be found on p17 of the following document: http://www.rainforest- alliance.org/agriculture/documents/farm_cert_policy.pdf

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 13  Conclusions

The three different labels are each of different origin resulting in a very different approach. Fairtrade is created under the principle "trade not aid" and is focused on strengthening the small farmer, enabling him to take his future and development in his own hands. Rainforest Alliance is the result of a reflex to protect the Amazon rainforest and biodiversity. UTZ CERTIFIED arose from the concern to produce high quality coffee in a responsible manner and thus has the product as starting point.

These three different approaches (small farmer, environment and product quality) are represented strongly in the mission, vision and objectives of the label.

Fairtrade’s primary focus is to help strengthen and support small farmers allowing them market access to the economic system. The objective is to make farmers independent and autonomous. Fairtrade sees this as a good way to fight poverty. To achieve this goal cooperation between the various links in the chain and the consumer is expected. Only secondarily Fairtrade pays attention to environmental protection.

Rainforest Alliance puts particular emphasis on protecting biodiversity and improving the situation of the local population. It seeks to achieve this by imposing production conditions combined with enhancing the knowledge of the producers. Rainforest Alliance, like Fairtrade, sees the value of good cooperation between different factors in order to achieve its objectives. Rainforest Alliance also emphasizes on educating consumers and they expect the government to install regulations to punish non-sustainable products and to favor sustainable products.

UTZ CERTIFIED wants mainly to supply quality coffee and to allow large producers to respond to the demand for responsibly produced coffee. The starting point is the potential improvement that can be achieved for both consumers (good quality coffee) and businesses (capturing market share of renewable coffee). This leads to an approach where the final product is the objective and not the social or environmental aspects, like the other labels. However in their standards there has been paid attention to environmental and social criteria.

These different approaches are related to the focus on different target groups. Fairtrade focuses primarily on small farmers (but allows also large plantations). UTZ CERTIFIED has a reverse strategy (focusing on plantations but also giving access for small farmers). Rainforest Alliance works primarily on the basis of area that can be certified and therefore has no specific target.

The product range for which the standards have been developed also indicates the difference in vision between the labels. Rainforest Alliance is primarily concerned with protecting biodiversity. This allows certification of all possible agricultural products. The focus is not on product but on the number of hectares that can be protected. UTZ CERTIFIED is particularly keen on products that are cultivated on a large scale, such as coffee, tea and cocoa. Fairtrade puts more focus on products that can be grown by small farmers.

All labels are mostly funded with government grants and provision of services to members. Rainforest Alliance also gets funds from donations.

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Standards

All standards are available on the internet and are regularly updated. The standards meet all the criteria / requirements of ISEAL (International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labeling Alliance). ISEAL is an international non-profit organization, that has established a code of good practices for the design and implementation of social and environmental criteria in the development of standards.

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Minimum Several criteria must be met The standard includes 14 The standard for coffee requirements at the start of the mandatory criteria that must be consists of a set of certification. The other met in any case. mandatory criteria and criteria are optional in the criteria that should be initial phase (progress In addition there are criteria of fulfilled after 1 to 4 requirements). They are to which at least 50% must be years. In addition there are be met later, after a fixed met. a limited number of period. optional criteria to be In total a score of at least 80% met. This makes the should be met for all standard progressively criteria. This score is calculated more strict during the first by granting the criteria one the 4 years. following simplified scores: In the first years there are 100% in order: 100% 97 mandatory checkpoints, 50-99% in order: 50% and 77 optional 0-49% in order: 0% checkpoints remaining. After four years, the plantation has to meet 152 mandatory checkpoints and 22 optional checkpoints remain. Labeled 100% of the product must be If the percentage (30-90%) is 90% of the product has to Coffee certified. specified products are allowed be certified. to carry the label. Without specification 90% of the product has to be certified. 12 Composition Between 5 and 11 members 12 representatives including 4 Between 6 and 12 of the (always odd) with an equal of SAN (Sustainable Action representatives. committee that number of representatives of Network). draws up the users and suppliers. Suppliers and standards. The other eight members must manufacturers have two Suppliers are represented by come from three groups: seats. Representatives of a producer and a 1. experts NGOs and experts have representative of the workers 2. NGOs also two seats. (by preference linked to 3. producers and suppliers Trade Unions). If several There is also one seat for producers are represented The three groups should be an expert in sustainability they should come from represented in equal numbers or certification. different continents. and comprise at least 60% of the total group members. Finally, there are one or Users are represented by two seats for non-voting

12 From the 1 of July 2010 this becomes 100%.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 15  one person of the Labelling Representatives from Asia, members of UTZ Initiatives and one of the Africa, and South / Central CERTIFIED. traders. If more traders are America must represent more represented, there must be a than 50% of the group No category should be person from the ATO or members. represented for more than Alternative Trade 50%. 30% of the members Organizations (eg Oxfam must be from countries in Fairtrade) present. which UTZ CERTIFIED is active. At least two In addition independent continents (Asia, Africa or experts are admitted. South / Central America) should be represented. Specific There is one standard for There is one standard for all For each product group standards "small producers" which is products. The standard is there is one standard. valid for almost all supplemented by local products.13 'interpretation guides” .

Additionally there is a separate standard for each product group.

For some products such as tea, flowers and fresh fruits there are also standards for "Hired labor" and "contract production". These standards do not apply to coffee. Accessibility All producers may apply for All producers may apply for the All producers may apply the label. label. for the label. Definitions of The criteria in the standards The criteria are well defined The criteria in the the criteria are not always quantifiable and are often quantified. There standards are not always and leave room for is relatively little room for quantifiable and leave interpretation. interpretation. room for interpretation. Traceability A system of traceability is Rainforest Alliance has an UTZ CERTIFIED has an mandatory for Fairtrade. The online system for tracking the online system for tracking operators have the freedom chain of coffee products. the chain of coffee to choose a traceability products. system.

This system has to make This system makes sure every This system makes sure sure every pack of coffee pack of coffee can be traced every pack of coffee can can be traced back to the back to the certification holder be traced back to the certification holder from from which it comes. certification holder from which it comes. which it comes.

Labeled products must be Labeled products must be Labeled products must be processed separately from processed separately from processed separately from non-labeled products. non-labeled products. non-labeled products.

Rainforest Alliance provides There must be kept a training for workers to ensure sample of each load for

13 Small producers are cooperative organizations which consist for at least 50% of small farmers (who deliver 50% of the total production). There must be clear rules for membership and all members must have a vote in the general assembly.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 16  the proper functioning of the one year so that checks chain-of-custody. can be performed in case of complaints.

Fairtrade requires an audit of Rainforest Alliance requires an UTZ CERTIFIED requires the various processors and audit of the various processors an audit of the various distributors of certified and distributors of certified processors and products. products. 14 distributors of certified products. Availability All standards are fully The standard is fully accessible All standards are fully accessible on the website. on the website. accessible on the website.

Conclusions

All standards meet the criteria / requirements of ISEAL and the composition of the committee that draws up standards contains sufficient guarantees for a broad stakeholder participation in all three. All standards are available on the Internet and accessible to all producers. Besides these similarities, there are some major differences.

Rainforest Alliance has a standard for all products with the best-defined criteria which leave little room for interpretation. Fairtrade and UTZ CERTIFIED have a standard for each product line with less quantifiable criteria.

The last two sometimes set stricter application requirements. Fairtrade has a standard of which all criteria must be met, supplemented by a set of progress criteria to be realized after a certain period. UTZ CERTIFIED has a similar system supplemented by optional criteria which total to less than 15% of the total number of criteria to be met. Rainforest Alliance has only a limited number of mandatory criteria. In addition, a score of 80% for the additional criteria has to be met, with a minimum score of 50% for each of the additional criteria.

One thing interesting about Fairtrade is the use of separate standards for small producers and "hired labor”. The substantive differences in these standards are not very strong, but it allows a way to approach the differences between small producers and production in plantations. In this study, only the standards for small producers are considered.

Fairtrade is the only label which requires single ingredient products to be 100% certified in order to have the label. With UTZ CERTIFIED and Rainforest Alliance this is 90%. In the last one it can even go to only 30% certified production as long as indicated on the product.

All labels have a system for traceability of their products and make audits of the chain-of-custody mandatory.

14 Oral communication.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 17  Social criteria

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Discrimination Extended criteria. Extended criteria. Extended criteria. Discrimination of handicapped is not mentioned. Permitted under very strict Permitted under very strict Prohibited. < 15 years conditions. conditions. Wife The wife has the right to No criteria. No criteria. work at another place. Freedom of Present and combined with Present and combined with Present. Union support for the creation of support for the creation of unions. unions. Sick leave/ There is a system of sick No criteria. Maternity leave must comply Social security/ pay. Other regulations must with local legislation. Retirement/ comply with local legislation Maternity leave or Union agreements. Subcontractors Preference for permanent Preference for permanent No criteria. staff. staff. Leave No criteria. At least 12 days of paid leave No criteria. each year. Safety Wide focus. Primary focus on pesticides. Wide focus. Safety clothing Should be provided. Should be provided. Should be used. Training Training is provided in There are courses provided There are courses provided workers and function of the work to be that focus on environment that focus on safety during their families undertaken and on the and social management. The work. basic principles of courses are specified to the Fairtrade. All courses must work to be undertaken. All be paid as a normal working courses must be paid as a day. normal working day.

There is no training for the Training is provided for There is also a literacy families of the workers. workers and their program provided for families. They focus mainly employees and their on general hygiene and families. environmental protection. Medical Employees are entitled to Employees and their families Employees and their families Support free medical assistance. are entitled to medical are entitled to medical assistance. There are assistance. medical checks provided for employees and their families. Social The needs of people are the Focus on helping people. No criteria. Development primary focus. Land rights No criteria. Land rights must be proven, if No criteria. this is not possible it has to be proved that the land is free from conflict.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 18  Conclusions

For the following aspects there are few differences between the labels: forced labor, child labor <15, the possibility of collective bargaining, wages, overtime, education for children of employees, housing, hygiene.

There are relatively few major differences between the three labels. However, unlike others, the Fairtrade label enforces the local legislation for social security and pensions, and provide criteria for sick leave. UTZ CERTIFIED and Fairtrade have no standards regarding vacation.

Sometimes there is a different approach between the labels. UTZ CERTIFIED calls for protective clothing use, while the other labels have clothing available. Rainforest Alliance has mandatory medical checks of employees.

UTZ CERTIFIED and Rainforest Alliance provide training and medical assistance for the families of employees as well.

A final important difference is that Rainforest Alliance has a clause about land rights. This is not found in the other labels.

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Environmental criteria

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Pesticides Uses the WTO (World Health Uses Western standards and Uses Western standards and Organization) list and views requires a special scenario views the problem from an the problem from a health for the products on the WHO economic standpoint. standpoint. list. Material used No criteria. There are procedures in The material used with (eg. sprinkler place for proper use and the pesticides has to be in good systems...) calibration of the material. shape and calibrated. Erosion Extended criteria. Extended criteria. Only mentioned briefly. control Fertilizers No criteria. No criteria. Extended criteria for the preservation and application of fertilizers. GMO's Prohibited in the whole Prohibited in production. Allowed if rules comply with chain. local legislation. Using fire to Only in specific Only in specific No criteria. clear land circumstances. circumstances. Waste The cooperative must own The farm must have and No waste management plan. and implement a implement a comprehensive However, there is emphasis comprehensive waste waste management plan. on composting and recycling management plan. products. Emphasizes on composting.

No training for Employees regularly receive No training for employees. farmers/employees. training on the prevention of waste. Water usage Fairtrade pays attention to Rainforest Alliance pays UTZ CERTIFIED pays efficient water use, avoiding attention to efficient water attention to efficient water water pollution and the use, avoiding water pollution use and avoid water depletion of groundwater. and the depletion of pollution. It doesn’t pay groundwater. attention to the depletion of groundwater. Land usage Primary forests should not Primary forests should not be Natural 15 forests may not be be used. used and this retrospectively used. for five years before applying for certification.

Secondary forests may be chopped if the loss is compensated. Ecosystem No criteria. Protection and restoration of If possible, unused land protection on parts of the farm to original must be restored into the farms condition. Observance of a original condition. buffer between production

15 The definition of natural forest is not always clear. In some definitions it is used only for primary forests, while other definitions use the term for primary forest as well as secondary forest which have not been planted.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 20  areas and ecological valuable areas. Harvesting of Only possible if there is no Only possible if no damage to No criteria. non-cultivated damage to the environment. the environment. crops additional No criteria. An inventory of the wildlife No criteria. protection of present on the farm must be wildlife drawn up. These species and their habitat must be protected. Energy use No criteria. Preparation of an energy Criteria related to energy efficiency plan and reduction efficiency. of dependency on fossil fuels (2011). 16 Greenhouse No criteria. The farm must reduce its No criteria. gases greenhouse gas emissions and use technologies to maximize carbon sequestration in soil and plants to maximize (2011). 17

Conclusions

For the following aspects there are only a few differences between the labels: pesticide monitoring, signaling during and after the use of pesticides in the fields, keeping registers concerning their use, training on pesticide use, avoidance of resistance to pesticides, soil structure, fertility and fertilizer use and protection of protected species.

In general it can be concluded that UTZ CERTIFIED pays least attention to environmental criteria. They have no prohibition on the use of GMOs and use of fire to clean land is also permitted. In addition, the criteria for erosion control and waste management are less stringent, and UTZ CERTIFIED has no criteria to avoid the depletion of groundwater tables.

UTZ CERTIFIED has a different approach for certain categories. For example, they mainly focus on operating conditions (state of the material, storage ,...) and less for environmental protection.

When it comes to the use of pesticides, there are two approaches. Fairtrade views this from a health point of view (WHO list). UTZ CERTIFIED looks at it from a Western legal position. Rainforest Alliance combines both views and thus is probably the strictest.

Rainforest Alliance is clearly the strictest label regarding environmental criteria. They have additional focus on wildlife, energy, global warming, the ban on use of secondary forests and attention to the restoration of ecosystems. These criteria are not found with Fairtrade and UTZ CERTIFIED (except for energy use and the use of secondary forests).

16 This criteria is applicable by 2011. 17 This criteria is applicable by 2011.

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Economic criteria

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Minimum price Fairtrade guarantees a No criteria. No criteria. minimum price for products. This minimum price is agreed in consultation with stakeholders and is aimed to cover the costs of sustainable production for the producer (including the costs of the audits).

If the world market price is higher, producers negotiate their selling price, but they never receive less than the minimum.

The minimum price is adjusted annually and can be found on the website of FLO. Premium Fairtrade gives a Fairtrade Farmers have to negotiate with Farmers have to premium per sold product. the buyers about bonuses negotiate with the buyers themselves. about bonuses This premium must be themselves. used for social, environmental and Analysis of sales economic development of performance of UTZ the producers community . CERTIFIED shows that buyers pay more than the For the use of Fairtrade normal World market premium a plan is drawn up price for certified that has to be approved on coffee. This is amongst the general meeting of the others dependent on the cooperative. quality of the coffee.

This negotiated premium is known as an “UTZ premium” and has a variable value. Pre-financing A system is provided No criteria. No criteria. whereby up to 60% of the value of the contract must be pre-financed if requested by the producer. Quality No criteria. No criteria. Comprehensive criteria on various stages in the processing. Management Emphasis on corporate Emphasis on social and Emphasis on risk

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 22  plan social responsibility. environmental aspects. assessment.

A development plan has to The plan should include a short, There are no further be drawn up (also medium and long term vision. It details given. regarding the use of the is necessary to provide premium) to promote the procedures for implementation social, environmental and and monitoring of the plan. economic development of the cooperative and its members. Communication Communication and Communication and training on No criteria. about the label training on the meaning of the meaning of the label must the label must be provided. be provided. Annual reports The publication of an No criteria. No criteria. annual report is mandatory. Operation of the There should be clear rules No criteria. No criteria. cooperative for membership and all members have the right to vote in the General Assembly. The organization may not allow any form of discrimination and a program is installed to improve the social and economic position of minorities.

There is an annual general meeting (which approves the annual report and accounts) and an elected executive board.

Training must also be provided so that members can take part in the administration of the organization.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 23  Conclusions

In terms of economic criteria, there are big differences between the three labels. Fairtrade is the only label that provides a minimum price, completely covering the costs of sustainable production (including certification). In addition, upon request of the producer there is a possibility to get up to 60% of the contract value pre-financed.

Finally, there is also an established Fairtrade premium with which producers can invest in community projects. Rainforest Alliance has no premium nor a minimum price. UTZ CERTIFIED has no fixed premium, but from analysis of their sales results it seems that participating producers receive a higher price for their products. The farmers are responsible for negotiating this option.

Regarding the management system there are also differences. UTZ CERTIFIED focuses on risk assessment (even in training). Rainforest Alliance focuses on environmental and social management in the short, medium and long-term. Fairtrade enforces a development plan to be drawn up (also regarding the use of the bonus) to promote the social, environmental and economic development of the cooperative and its members.

For small producers, Fairtrade submits a set of criteria for the operation of the cooperatives in terms of transparency and discrimination among others. The other labels have no relevant criteria for this.

When it comes to control on quality only UTZ CERTIFIED has criteria. These requirements regard the entire chain, from harvesting to processing and transportation.

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Application process

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Procedure An application for Farmers apply to their local SAN An application for certification shall be secretariat. certification shall be submitted to the control body submitted to UTZ (FLO-CERT). Then an The applicant will then receive CERTIFIED. application form will be sent an information package with a to the applicant. This should questionnaire. He can then Then the applicant be returned completed. FLO- decide to proceed with prepares for an announced CERT then verifies if the certification. audit. For this, there is a application falls under the self-audit form available. scope of Fairtrade. This can For this, he has to contact again also be checked online. the local SAN secretariat.18 When the applicant has finished the preparation, he Then an application package has to contact an approved is sent to the applicant. This external auditor to request includes material under an audit. If the audit is which a detailed positive, the license is questionnaire, information granted. about the cost,...

These documents must be completed and sent back to FLO-CERT.

Then the applicant prepares for an announced audit. Documents and explanation will be provided in due time by FLO-CERT.

When the applicant has completed the preparations, an audit is performed. If the audit is positive, the license is granted. Cost for Producer organizations pay Producers pay a price for the The audits are paid directly producer a fixed cost of € 500 for certification of plantations. by producers and depend assistance during the on the chosen auditor. 20 application process. There is also an additional Afterwards, the applicant will contribution per hectare of be charged for certification certified area. For coffee this is by FLO-CERT. This is € 3.88 ($ 5) per hectare. 19 depending on the size of the producers organization. There is a daily charge of € 400 (€ 350 for hired labor).

18 Oral communication. 19 Certification manuel Rainforest Alliance Certified. Presentation by Adelaide Webster. 20 Oral communication.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 25  Cost for The cost for licensing There are no license / The costs for licensing / licensee /administration is paid by the administrative costs. administration are paid by licensee (distributors who the first purchaser of the use the Fairtrade label) and coffee and amounts to 2.06 amount to € 0.220 per kg. In eurocents per kilo of green Belgium, there is a coffee. 22 These costs are progressive reduction in the included in the chain. cost from an amount of € 75,000.21 Application The application can be done The application can be done The application can be online. online. done online.

Conclusions

The application procedure is similar for the various labels. All labels leave the costs of the audit to the producers. For Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance applicants have no choice regarding an auditor and are forced to pay the daily cost price. With UTZ CERTIFIED applicants have a choice between multiple auditing agencies.

It is impossible to say which effect this has in practice because it depends on several factors that influence the price setting (country of the applicant, duration of audit, audit daily ...).

For Rainforest Alliance In addition there are additional costs to per hectare certified area. This shows that Rainforest Alliance again focuses on the number of hectares in production and less on production capacity.

The other labels have put the emphasis on production and calculate a small fee per sold product to the licensees. With UTZ CERTIFIED this is done at the moment of selling the coffee to the first purchaser. The cost is passed through the supply chain and used for the administrative cost of the track and trace system.

With Fairtrade it’s the licensee which pays for the use of the label and the cost is calculated based on its sales figures. This cost is used for the promotion of the Fairtrade label, certification, ...

21 FLO Standard Licence Contract Version 1,0. 22 1,2 dollarcent per pond. 1dollar = 0,775€, 1pond = 0,4534kg.

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Inspection

Comparative table

Fairtrade Rainforest Alliance UTZ CERTIFIED Inspection FLO-CERT , ISO65 Local SANcert or SAAS. Multiple control agencies, bodies accredited. all ISO65 accredited. SANcert are control units that FLO-CERT is a division of are separated from the SAN These organizations FLO to ensure the members to ensure grant the certificate. independence of the audit. independence of the checks. All are ISO65 compliant, but not all 23 It is FLO-CERT who grants are ISO65 accredited. the certification. If there is no SANcert present in a country, SAAS (the inspection unit of Rainforest Alliance) will do the checking on their behalf.

Rainforest Alliance is currently working to make the various control systems IOAS (International Organic Accreditation Service) compliant.

The certificate is ultimately granted by Sustainable Farm Certification. Certification There is a three-year cycle There is a three-year cycle The label is granted for cycle whereby, after three years whereby, after three years they one year. they have to make a new have to make a new application application again for the again for the label. Every year label. Every year there are there are audits. audits. Audit- 1. Opening meeting with all 1. Opening meeting. 1. Checks on the procedure concerned to explain the documents provided by audit. 2. Examination of the relevant the licensee (applicant). documentation. 2. Examination of the 2. Opening meeting. relevant documentation. 3. Discussion / interviews with employees. 3. Evaluation of the 24 3. Discussion / interviews functioning of the ICS with employees. 4. Audit on the site. (for group certification).

4. Audit on the site. 5. Final meeting. 4. Examination of the relevant documentation. 5. Final meeting. 5. Evaluation of the annual internal audit conducted by the ICS

23 Oral communication. 24 Internal control system.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 27  6. Only for group certification: viewing the non-compliances of individual members.

7. Discussion / interviews with employees.

8. Audit one the site.

9. Only for group certification: evidence from internal auditors.

10. Final meeting. Granting By FLO-CERT (inspection Done by a Certification Done by the independent body). Committee, which is part of monitoring organization. Sustainable Farm Certification, The audit report is evaluated based on the audit report. 25 internally by an evaluator before granting. Unannounced 10% unannounced Yes, but not systematically. Yes, yearly with 10% of 26 inspections inspections. There audits are mostly the licensees. conducted with a reason (eg a complaint). Inspections Yes, annually at all licensees Yes, annually at all licensees Yes, annually at all licensees

A sample of the root of the A sample of the root of the A sample of the root of number of producers is number of producers is the number of producers questioned when multiple questioned when multiple is questioned when producers share one producers share one multiple producers share 27 28 certificate. certificate. one certificate. Procedure in There is a guide on handling There is no set procedure in If violation is reported, case of any violations for all links in case of violation, but there is a there should be a violation the chain. This can range set of rules whereby the label verification audit from warnings to suspension could be revoked: conducted as soon as and immediate revoking of - Not complying with the possible (within 6 weeks). 29 the label. standard However, the producer - Missing or blocking an retains his certification. If audit the verification audit is - Misuse of the label also negative, the - Bribery certificate is revoked.

If, upon inspection, a violation is determined, the certification is withdrawn immediately and the producer is suspended (for three

25 Oral communication. 26 Written communication by FLO-CERT. 27 Oral communication. 28 Oral communication. 29 Written communication by FLO-CERT.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 28  months). A verification audit follows within that period. If positive, the producer is re-admitted. If negative the certification is revoked and the producer may not reapply for one year. Internal The cooperative must For group certifications an ICS For group certifications inspection establish an internal system system has to be set up. This is an ICS system has to be system / ICS to inspect its members, mandatory. set up. This is which is promoted through mandatory. education and training.

This system is not Rainforest Alliance has a UTZ CERTIFIED has a compulsory in all comprehensive set of comprehensive set of cases. There are no criteria requirements for setting up the requirements for setting for setting up the ICS. ICS. up the ICS. Verification If non-compliances are If a farm receives a score of If non-compliances are audit found, a verification audit more than 70% (but less than found, a verification audit 30 must be conducted. 80%), a verification audit may must be conducted be conducted. This should be (preferably within 6-12 implemented within four months, weeks). otherwise a new certification will have to be applied for. Complaints Claims are processed within There is a form for filling in Each organization has its procedure 45 days by a review complaints. Complaints are own complaint system. If (regarding committee, consisting of handled by the International complaints are not audits) three staff members of FLO- Certification Committee. resolved within 20 days, CERT. UTZ CERTIFIED must be contacted. Loss of the If the certification is revoked If the certification is revoked If the certification is label products may no longer be products may no longer be sold. revoked products may no sold. (neither when they were longer be sold. produced before the date of revoking).

Sales contracts signed Sales contracts signed before Sales contracts signed before the revoking may still the revoking may still continue. before the revoking may 31 continue. still continue. Reapplication No time limits specified. After withdrawal of the No time limits specified. certification reapplication is allowed after the following time limits: • 1 year in case of fraud • 3 months in case of non- compliance • immediately if forgotten to reapply Increased No criteria. In case of new crops or if more If a production increases production than 10% of new land area is by 10% or more in one added, a new audit should be year, an additional audit

30 Written communication by FLO-CERT. 31 Written communication by FLO-CERT.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 29  conducted. is necessary. Conflicts of Auditors should not be No information found. Auditors may not take interest advising the certification consultancy tasks in their holders where inspections work sphere. take place. Complaints Complaints should be dealt There is a form for filling in Complaints should be procedure with within 30 days. complaints. Complaints are dealt with within 15 days (general) handled by the International and resolved 20 days Certification Committee. after that. This is done by the inspecting organization. If the complaint can not be resolved, UTZ CERTIFIED should be contacted.

Conclusions

The inspection bodies are very different depending on the certification. UTZ CERTIFIED is working with fully independent inspection bodies. Fairtrade works with a single inspection organization (FLO-CERT), which was separated from FLO in order to ensure independency. Rainforest Alliance is working with control agencies in each region and when there is no agency locally available, auditing is taken over by SAAS, the audit organization of Rainforest Alliance.

With Fairtrade and UTZ CERTIFIED the certificate is given by the inspection bodies. With Rainforest Alliance, this is done by a certification committee.

Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance have a-three year certification cycle. In the case of UTZ CERTIFIED, the label is permanent (if the annual audit results are satisfactory).

The course of the audit and possible penalties for the three labels are very similar.

Only UTZ CERTIFIED and Fairtrade have unannounced inspections. By Rainforest Alliance, this is only done in case of problems.

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 30  References

Annual report FLO, 2008-2009. www.fairtrade.net .

Annual report Rainforest Alliance, 2008. www.rainforest-alliance.org

Annual report UTZ CERTIFIED, 2008. www.utzcertified.org

Certification manuel Rainforest Alliance Certified. Presentation by Adelaide Webster.

Code development procedure for a UTZ CERTIFIED product code, September 2009. www.rainforest- alliance.org

Coffee barometer 2009, Tropical commodity coalition. www.teacoffeecocoa.org

Common Requirements for the Certification of Producer Groups - Public Version 1 - November, 2008. Iseal alliance. www.rainforest-alliance.org

Commerces équitable & durable: tant de labels et de ststèmes de garantie... Comment s'y retrouver? Agence Belge de Développement. 2010.

Farm Certification Policy. Sustainable Agriculture Network. April 2009. www.rainforest-alliance.org

FLO-CERT Producer Certification Fees Contract Production Projects. Version 13. www.flo-cert.net

FLO-CERT Producer Certification Initial Fees. Version 70. www.flo-cert.net

FLO Standard License Contract Version 1,0. www.maxhavelaar.nl

Generic Fairtrade standars for Small Producers' Organizations. Version: 15.08.2009. www.fairtrade.net .

Generic Fairtrade standars. FLO Prohibited Materials List. Version: 15.12.200. www.fairtrade.net .

List of Prohibited Pesticides. Sustainable Agriculture Network. September 2009. www.rainforest- alliance.org

Sustainable Agriculture Network to Expand Certification System, Press release. February 1, 2010. www.rainforest-alliance.org

Standards & Policy Development Handbook. Sustainable Agriculture Network. April 2009. www.rainforest- alliance.org

Sustainable Agriculture Standard. April 2009. www.rainforest-alliance.org

UTZ CERTIFIED Good Inside Certification Protocol, Version 2.0 February 2010. www.utzcertified.org

UTZ CERTIFIED Good Inside Chain of Custody For Coffee Origin Countries Version January 2009. www.utzcertified.org

UTZ CERTIFIED Good Inside Code of Conduct For Coffee. Version 1.1 - January 2010. www.utzcertified.org

Netwerk Bewust Verbruiken vzw , Mundo-b, Edinburgstraat 26, 1050 Brussel Tel. 02/894 46 15, [email protected] , http://www.bewustverbruiken.be 31