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In an era where environmental sustainability is at the forefront of global consciousness, ETG Coffee is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reshaping the future of coffee sourcing and roasting. With a resolute commitment to sustainability and net-zero goals. ETG Coffee is not only meeting the demands of its roasting clients but is also strengthening its relationship with farmers, cooperatives and suppliers.
ETG Coffee aligns itself with the evolving regulatory landscape, including the EU Deforestation Free Regulation (EURDR) and the anticipated CSR Due Diligence Directive (CSR3D). This strategic move positions ETG Coffee as a responsible and ethical coffee-sourcing leader.
The desk is establishing direct sourcing channels, adhering to the EUDR and RFA/4C certified volumes, and introducing its proprietary Beyond Beans coffee standard. The company is not merely stopping at certification; it is actively engaged in on-the-ground initiatives in key countries such as Uganda, India, Ethiopia, Togo, and Cote d’Ivoire. These initiatives include field projects on regenerative agriculture, gender equality, and youth empowerment.
A pivotal aspect of ETG Coffee’s sustainability roadmap is the concerted effort to reduce carbon in the coffee supply chain. This initiative is especially critical in supporting coffee roasters committed to achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement and the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
Uganda, a primary source of coffee in ETG’s supply chain, serves as the testing ground for the Net Zero Proof of Concepts. The recently inaugurated state-of-the-art coffee factory, boasting a capacity of 30,000mt per year, symbolizes ETG’s commitment to the future of sustainable coffee
production.
The meticulous Carbon Footprint mapping is a departure from using external databases to calculate emissions. ETG Coffee is conducting a detailed baseline analysis, collecting data from 70 farmers on farming practices, up-country processing, and logistics with the support of Meo Carbon, a consulting company from Germany.
Agroforestry aims to sequester carbon while safeguarding coffee systems from the impacts of climate change. By reintroducing shade trees to the coffee landscape, farmers not only contribute to carbon capture but also benefit from enhanced soil structure, preventing erosion, and fostering biodiversity.
The Low-Carbon Fertilization roadmap acknowledges that fertilizers constitute a significant portion of the green robusta coffee footprint. ETG Coffee is pioneering two innovative components: an organic fertilizer partnership with EIHL Uganda and Proteen, a local organic fertilizer company using Black Soldier Flies; and BioChar production from coffee husks and agri-waste, a method that captures carbon permanently.
Sugar, renowned for its natural sweetness, holds a global allure. Beyond its delightful taste, sugar stands as a vital energy source, ingrained in daily consumption worldwide—whether enjoyed directly or as a key ingredient in treats like cakes, chocolates, and candies.
Throughout the years, ETG has solidified its position as a significant player in the white sugar market. We boast a robust presence and origination in major producing regions, including but not limited to Brazil, India, Thailand, and the EU. Our extensive coverage spans across the African continent, South America, and Asia.
We facilitate trade for various sugar specifications tailored to our customer’s preferences. Our offerings range from White Refined Sugar and White Crystal Sugar to Bagged Raws, accommodated through both containers and conventional vessels.
ETG, a respected participant in the grains trading arena, traces its roots back to the 1980s when it played a pivotal role in originating grains for the World Food Program. Today, as a global leader, we facilitate the trade of over 2.5 million metric tons of grains annually. Our widespread international presence enables us to efficiently source grains from major exporters such as the United States, South America, the Black Sea region, and Africa, delivering them to diverse markets worldwide.
In Spain, ETG operates major offices, strategically distributing grains across the region. Moreover, our group holds significant sway in the African market, particularly excelling in the trade of non-GMO grains and white maize. Our deep understanding of regional dynamics and unwavering commitment to quality solidify our position as a trusted partner in the global grains market, driving sustainable growth and fostering enduring relationships.
ETG utilizes its extensive origination capabilities across the United States and South America to play a vital role in the African oilseeds sector, where we focus on sourcing premium commodities from various regions across the continent.
In a forward-thinking initiative, ETG has embarked on an Organic Oilseeds program, collaborating with local communities to cultivate organic soybeans. This initiative not only meets the growing demand for organic products but also promotes socio-economic development at the grassroots level.
With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to ethical trading practices, ETG continues to navigate the complexities of the oilseeds market, driving innovation and fostering prosperity across its global operations.
Farmers 360° Link is a traceability platform that creates new consumer experiences by linking producers and consumers.
ETG, together with Mitsui&Co., launched this project combining ETG’s network of emerging farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa with digital technology.
The project entails four distinctive user journeys:
At the heart of Farmers 360˚ link lies our dedicated team of field agents, integral members of the Parrogate, a subsidiary of ETG’s, community. We collaborate with field agents, providing them with smartphones and training to navigate our Field App seamlessly. This powerful tool, developed by our engineering team in Johannesburg, enables field agents to:
Farmers registered through our Field App embark on a unique journey of continuous learning and support. Our weekly audio lesson program, coupled with talk time incentives, empowers farmers with valuable insights for the entire farming season. We reward high-yield farmers with special bonuses, fostering a commitment to excellence.
Additionally, our innovative farmer return program, funded by the “farmer return fee,” ensures long-term benefits for farmers, ranging from productivity improvements to community-focused initiatives. The program aligns with partner fashion brands’ retail pricing, creating a sustainable model that extends beyond the harvest.
The success of Farmers' 360˚ Link contributes significantly to Parrogate's operational efficiency. Our Field App generates daily and weekly performance reports for each field agent, offering insights into registered farmers, agri-input sales, and lesson engagement. The Ginning App records crucial data during cotton processing, ensuring quality control and identifying irregularities.
We are dedicated to making Parrogate's operations paperless through a user-friendly web portal. As we pilot cashless crop purchases through mobile money, we envision a transformative shift towards seamless, efficient, and transparent operations.
Consumers play a pivotal role in our journey towards sustainable agriculture. Through QR codes on garments, we connect consumers with the rich stories behind their clothing. Our web app provides detailed information about the cotton’s origin, farmer narratives, and plans for environmentally conscious supply chain practices.
Consumers can actively support farmer return programs, choosing initiatives aligned with their values. By linking with chat apps like LINE (in Japan) or WhatsApp (globally), they receive regular updates on the progress of their chosen program, fostering a deeper connection with the impact of their choices.
Our commitment to transparency extends to the distribution of the “farmer return fee.” Pre-agreed with partner fashion brands, this fee supports farmers directly. Funds from farmer return fees are transferred to Zambia, benefiting the specific farmers responsible for the cotton used in the production of the sold garment.
By linking the return fee to specific lots of cotton shipments, we ensure that the impact is direct and meaningful.
