UTZ CERTIFICATION GHANA: 2014

Though the concept of UTZ is a very good and has been embraced by most if not all Ghanaians, there are some major problems that makes it very difficult to carry out Certification in Ghana.. 1. SMALL FARM SIZES: One problem associated with Certification in Ghana is that the farms are of very small size and as such you have to get a mass number of farmers and bring them together as one. This makes trainings and meetings very difficult and your transportation cost huge. 2. MOST FARMERS ARE ILLITERATE: Most Ghanaian farmers are uneducated and as such makes it very difficult for them to learn modern agricultural practices that included in the Utz Code of Conduct. Due to this most farmers still use their traditional farming methods which does not fully support Land Utilization and increased yields. 3. RECEIPT KEEPING: One requirements of UTZ is that farmers should keep records including receipts of chemicals that they purchase and in Ghana since the agrochemical is not for sale it becomes very difficult for farmers to get records for this as they are not given any by the government agency. The chemicals given to them too is woefully inadequate and as such leads farmers to go to the black market to buy chemicals which some of them might be unapproved. ................. to be continued...........

Here’s how UTZ works

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At UTZ, we take the “big picture” approach. This is what we believe is the only way to make the production of coffee, cocoa and tea truly sustainable. Our Codes of Conduct cover a broad range of requirements contributing to better production, a better environment and a better life for everyone.

Click on the icons below to find out more about our requirements (on the left) and our contribution (on the right). A short clip of 30 seconds explains each section.

UTZ REQUIRES:

UTZ CONTRIBUTES TO:

BETTER FARMING METHODS

BETTER CROP

BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS

BETTER INCOME

BETTER FARMING BETTER FUTURE

BETTER CARE FOR NATURE

BETTER ENVIRONMENT

BETTER CARE FOR NEXT GENERATIONS

BETTER LIFE

Better farming. Better future.

Our work starts at the heart of the production chain and at the heart of the local community: farming. Many families and future generations depend on farming. It also has a big impact on the environment. This means that better farming practices provides an important foundation for a better future.
Better farming methods

At UTZ, it all starts with better farming. After all, better farming makes a lot of other things better too: harvests increase, incomes go up, prospects improve and nature is safeguarded. When farmers apply new skills and techniques they are able to get more out of their business, their land and themselves.
- Efficient use of land, water, fertilizer and manpower
- The right way to plant, maintain and harvest crops
- Development of recordkeeping and management plans
- Managing risks such as persistent drought or excessive rainfall
Better working conditions

UTZ demands that the rights of all workers are respected. Our Code of Conduct sets out clear criteria based on International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions. Independent monitors see to it that these criteria are upheld.
- A safe and healthy work environment and effective safety measures
- Sufficient rest and pay in accordance with national legislation
- Access to clean drinking water, sanitation and health care
- Good housing accommodations for workers
- The right to form and join trade unions, no forced labor, no discrimination
Better care for nature

UTZ has a wide range of requirements aimed at safeguarding nature, biodiversity and our climate. Farmers are trained to be careful and efficient in the way they use land, water, raw materials and energy.
- Respect for protected areas, plant and animal life and water sources
- Preventing deforestation and planting shade trees
- Optimizing and reducing the use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides
- Efficient waste collection, processing and recycling
- Using energy carefully and encouraging the use of sustainable energy sources
Better care for next generations

UTZ wants all children of farmers and workers to grow up in healthy circumstances and in a safe environment. UTZ sets specific requirements for the protection and development of children, which includes schooling and playtime. Another area of special attention is the care for pregnant women.
- No child labor
- Informational sessions on the importance of going to school and health risks
- Keeping hazardous materials away from children and drinking water
- Medical care for mothers and children
- Maternity leave for workers
Better crop

Farmers with better crops have better prospects, which is what UTZ is about. Not only do the farmers produce more, they achieve better quality at lower costs. More and more farmers around the world now have more opportunities because of the UTZ program.
Better income

UTZ-certified farmers are trained to also be good business people. This enables them to produce more at lower costs while producing better quality harvests. This way farmers are able to invest in their families, a sound business, the people who work there and in their futures.
Better environment

UTZ-certified farmers work with respect for the environment and in better harmony with nature. Animals, plants and nature reserves are protected. Water, raw materials and natural resources are preserved and pollution is reduced. That’s better for all of us sharing this planet.
Better life

Thanks to the UTZ program more and more farmers and workers feel healthy, motivated and respected. They get more chances to achieve their ambitions and so do their families. Their children go to school and are able to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. A better future for everyone.