Common Code for the Coffee Community Association

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Social and ecological standards GTZ, Cross-sectoral themes

Why Standard Initiatives?

The society, the environment and the economy are inseparably linked. None can develop sustainably without giving appropriate consideration to the interactions with others.

The private sector is increasingly displaying interest and willingness to commit itself to social, environmental and economic standards. These ideas must be agreed with representative segments of civil society.

For that, appropriate forms of participation and forums must be found. Credible and transparent procedures for ascertaining compliance have to be developed. Standards need to be formulated such that social and environmental demands are implemented effectively, while maintaining a positive economic setting for private enterprise.

The Common Code for the Coffee Community is an excellent example of how the instrument of voluntary standards can lead to a joint effort of all actors aiming at sustainable development.