Each year, in preparation for the chocolate-centric Easter holiday, a coalition of NGOs survey the world’s largest chocolate companies on their environmental and social impact. This year’s ‘chocolate scorecard’ might surprise you.
Twenty-seven companies were evaluated based on six criteria: human rights due diligence, traceability & transparency, living income, child labor, deforestation & climate, and agroforestry. Four companies received the highest ranking, a green bunny, including Tony’s Chocolonely and Alter Eco.
Cargill, Nestle and Hershey’s received a yellow bunny, signifying that they are beginning to implement sustainable policies. Godiva received an orange bunny, meaning that it needs work.
Four companies did not respond to the survey, including Unilever, the parent company of Ben and Jerry’s, and Starbucks.
The NGOs that create the scorecard, including Green America and Mighty Earth, collect data by distributing a survey to a variety of chocolate companies and manufacturers. These entities filled out the survey, and the coalition of NGOs graded the companies based on their responses. The scorecard focuses largely on the direction of a company’s work towards greater sustainability, rewarding chocolate makers that demonstrate year over year improvement.
While third-party verification of the companies’ survey answers is necessary to confirm the reliability of their sustainability efforts, the value of consumer awareness can’t be underestimated. If you’re buying chocolate this spring, make sure you know that it’s good for both people and planet.
Learn more about the scorecard and read the full report.
Read our recommendations for slave-free chocolate and follow cases on child labor in cocoa supply chains.
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