Digital capabilities and pilot solutions for deforestation-free small-scale coffee and cocoa production (DigiDeFree)

Implementing organization: Nuup, OroVerde, ProNatura Sur    Duration: 10/2024 - 10/2027 Main counterpart: IKI area: Sumideros de carbono







Initial situation 

To protect forests, the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) stipulates that the import of various agricultural products into the European Union requires proof of deforestation-free production. This represents a challenge for small-scale producers who lack the information and the financial and technical means needed to provide such proof. To maintain market access, the project supports Mexican coffee and cocoa producer cooperatives through capacity building and the development of a digital tool for data generation and verification of deforestation-free production, based on requirements developed participatively with local stakeholders. Local promoters use the tool to support small-scale producers in implementing and verifying the deforestation-free status of coffee and cocoa. To strengthen North-South cooperation, actors along the supply chain are building a framework of shared responsibility. Synergies with other projects, stakeholder networks, and the use of the ELAN platform create multiplier effects. 

Objectives  

Promote deforestation-free coffee and cocoa production by small-scale producers in southeastern Mexico by strengthening local cooperatives through capacity building and the development of a digital tool for data generation and production verification, based on requirements defined participatively by local stakeholders. 

Activities 

  • Promote the use of innovative technology for monitoring and data analysis among small-scale producers regarding their deforestation-free production chains.  
  • Improve monitoring, long-term analysis, and data-based adjustments in the production of cooperatives and small-scale producers to facilitate access to the European market and strengthen their competitiveness.  
  • The participation of European importers ensures the functionality and dissemination of the digital solution and creates a framework of shared responsibility. Information on the EUDR and the digital solution will be disseminated through the platform for deforestation-free supply chains (ELAN) during the course of the project.