Leveraging Sustainable Markets for Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development
IISD launched the Leveraging Sustainable Markets for Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development project, facilitating poverty reduction among marginalized commodity producers by enabling more strategic and proactive entry into value-added sustainable markets for less-developed countries.
The production of sustainable agriculture commodities continues to grow, reaching as high as 20 per cent of palm oil and 30 per cent of cocoa’s global production.
Consumer preferences and purchase decisions are largely driving this trend, motivated by advancing sustainability and reducing poverty in the countries of production. To respond to these consumer demands, hundreds of voluntary sustainability standards (VSSs) and other multistakeholder alliances have emerged over the last three decades as market tools to enhance sustainable development. Over the past decade, consumer preferences have influenced the evolution of VSSs, from serving niche markets to entering the mainstream, where multinational companies have defined sourcing commitments for sustainable agriculture commodities.
To meet this challenge, IISD launched the Leveraging Sustainable Markets for Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development project. It aims to facilitate poverty reduction among marginalized commodity producers by enabling more strategic and proactive entry into value-added sustainable markets for less-developed countries.
Participating experts
Additional downloads
You might also be interested in
Global Market Report: Soybean prices and sustainability
Less than 3% of soybeans are produced in compliance with sustainability standards. This report unpacks what needs to change to make soybeans a food that protects rather than harms the natural environment.
Measures to Enhance Forest Conservation and Reduce Deforestation
This report outlines and compares various policy measures that Costa Rica, Gabon, Indonesia, Peru, and Rwanda have put in place to address deforestation.
Countries Seeking to Protect Forests Should Take Lead From Five Developing Countries
As governments face increasing pressure to protect their forests, new research highlights the importance of sharing the wins and setbacks of tried and tested action in the Global South.
Voluntary initiatives can lead the way to net-zero but must coordinate standards and get more businesses on board
Voluntary standards and initiatives for carbon management can fill a legal void in climate regulations but limited alignment and a lack of uptake from companies are hindering their impact.