UNDP and Partners Launch Deforestation-Free Coffee Initiative in Ecuador

The new sustainably produced premium coffee will carry the “Deforestation-free coffee” certification, assuring consumers that no forest land has been cleared or degraded for its cultivation.

In a significant move to protect Ecuador's forests, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the government of Ecuador, and the Lavazza Foundation have announced the launch of deforestation-free coffee. This initiative aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices while strengthening local communities and enhancing market opportunities for small producers.

The new sustainably produced premium coffee will carry the “Deforestation-free coffee” certification, assuring consumers that no forest land has been cleared or degraded for its cultivation. This certification is achieved through rigorous monitoring and enforcement using satellite imagery and third-party verification, ensuring adherence to strict environmental standards. The Ecuadorian coffee produced under this partnership is cultivated without contributing to deforestation, thereby protecting vital ecosystems and enhancing local agricultural productivity.

“This partnership showcases the power of aligning public and corporate policies towards a sustainable future,” said Michelle Muschett, Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director of UNDP for Latin America and the Caribbean. She emphasized that Ecuador's sustainable certification is a testament to joint efforts in combating climate change and conserving crucial forest ecosystems. “This innovative, nature-based solution creates long-term economic opportunities for local communities and serves as a blueprint for driving systemic change to ensure environmental sustainability and economic resilience,” she added.

The initiative, developed in collaboration with FAPECAFES, a federation representing over 1,800 Amazonian families, supports more than 70,000 local producers, 40% of whom are women. It includes improvements in infrastructure across 18 gathering centers. Ecuadorian coffee organizations have become pioneers in this initiative, being the first to achieve Ecuador’s good agricultural practices and deforestation-free commitment certification.

“On the 20th anniversary of the Lavazza Foundation, we celebrate sustainable projects in collaboration with UNDP. This project exemplifies Lavazza’s commitment to sustainability and responsible supply chains,” stated Giuseppe Lavazza, Chairman of Lavazza Group and a board member of the Lavazza Foundation.

María Cristina Recalde, Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition of Ecuador, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, stating, “Our work with UNDP and the Lavazza Foundation demonstrates Ecuador's leadership in sustainable agriculture. This project not only protects our forests but also improves the livelihoods of Amazonian families through enhanced coffee production practices.”

This launch builds on the achievements of the PROAmazonía Programme, a comprehensive initiative supported by Ecuador’s Ministry of Environment, Water, and Ecological Transition, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock, showcasing a strong commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation in the region.