The world’s leading sustainability certification for the agricultural sector, Friend of the Earth has introduced the Sustainable Chocolate Certification in Ghana; the second-largest cocoa producer globally after Côte d'Ivoire.

The initiative which is in partnership with Ghanaian business development firm, Fort Group is aimed at promoting sustainable cocoa farming and ethical chocolate production practices in Ghana; offering a new and globally recognized standard, set to better position Ghana’s cocoa and chocolate confectionery industry.

Founded in 2016 by Conservationist Paolo Bray, Friend of the Earth - a project of the World Sustainability Organization (WSO), has certified over 5,000 farms and 50,000 farmers; representing more than 1.5 billion euros in sustainable production.

The WSO currently works with 1,500 companies, with over 5,000 certified products, in more than 80 countries worldwide.

The certification guarantees ecosystem protection, conservation of resources, and social responsibility throughout the entire cocoa production chain.

In recent years, Ghana has seen an unprecedented surge in cocoa production, recording its highest-ever output of 1,047,000 metric tons during the 2020/2021 crop year.

As a critical player in the global cocoa market, Ghana’s commitment to sustainable cocoa production is more important than ever.

The Friend of the Earth Sustainable Chocolate Certification will provide Ghanaian chocolate producers with the opportunity to leverage on the foremost international certification scheme for sustainable agriculture. The certification has been developed with the guidelines of the Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agriculture Systems.

The Sustainable Chocolate Certification ensures certified companies adopt practices that prioritise a sustainable approach to chocolate production, minimize their environmental impact, while ensuring fair labor conditions, and promoting the well-being of local communities.

By getting certified, Ghanaian-owned chocolate brands will enhance their competitiveness in the global chocolate confectionery market, appealing to consumers who prioritize ethical and sustainable products.

Currently, Ghana boasts of over 10 world class chocolate brands. By obtaining the WSO Sustainable Chocolate Certification, chocolate producers can align with international sustainability standards, and showcase their commitment to responsible cocoa farming and chocolate production.

The Friend of the Earth Sustainable Chocolate Certification, of the World Sustainability Organization stands to benefit not only certified brands, but the environment, local communities and the livelihood of farmers; ensuring a more sustainable future for Ghana’s Chocolate Confectionery industry.