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Gender Equity as a Strength
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Gender Equity as a Strength

by Webmaster
Gender Equity

Gender Equity as a Strength

At AgroAmerica, we understand that gender equity is a fundamental pillar for the sustainable development of our company. We operate in areas and countries where male labor has traditionally dominated the agro-industrial sector and we take concrete actions to promote an inclusive and equitable work environment for both men and women. Our team’s diversity enables us to reach our goals by enriching our operations with different perspectives and knowledge.

 

Gender Committee and Corporate Policies

Our gender committee plays a crucial role in formulating corporate policies related to the rights and obligations of women, maternity benefits, and non-discrimination. More than 80 people work on the committee, with the majority of them being women.

Systematic Surveys and Interviews

We use internal surveys and periodic interviews to understand the work dynamics and specific needs of our team. These tools enable us to tailor our policies and programs to ensure an inclusive work environment that supports the development of every team member, regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or other human characteristic. AgroAmerica values diversity and is committed to removing any barriers that prevent equal opportunity.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Our staff is made up of individuals with a range of backgrounds and experiences due to our geographically broad presence. We strive to achieve gender balance in all our operations by following our Equality and Non-Discrimination Policy.

Recognition and Leadership Opportunities

Each year, at least one of our female employees is recognized by the Ministry of Labor with an award that highlights the dedication and excellence in their work. These achievements highlight our ongoing commitment to promoting gender equity and creating an environment where talent and effort are recognized regardless of gender.

Promotion of Female Leadership

We have promoted outstanding women to leadership roles, demonstrating our commitment to equal opportunities and female empowerment. Each of these employees has performed exceptionally well and contributed significantly to AgroAmerica’s results and success.
Our commitment to gender equality
At AgroAmerica, we are committed to promoting gender equality in the workplace by creating a work environment where empowerment, professional development and equal opportunities for all are fundamental priorities. Our goal is to strive toward a more equitable and rewarding work future for our team.
Ethical Governance: Responsible Leadership
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Ethical Governance: Responsible Leadership for a Sustainable Future

by Webmaster

Ethical Governance: Responsible Leadership for a Sustainable Future

As the organization’s highest governing body, AgroAmerica’s Board of Directors is responsible for leading the company ethically and effectively. This commitment goes beyond economic growth, seeking to generate social value and increase the trust of interested parties. Our governance framework, processes, and actions are designed to ensure the desired short-, medium-, and long-term results supporting sustainable value creation.

Corporate Leadership: Rigorous Oversight for Sustainability Management

Sustainability management at AgroAmerica is directed by the company’s Corporate Management, under the supervision of the CEO and the Board of Directors’ mandate. This management is integrated with the company’s key areas, such as human resources, legal and compliance, corporate social responsibility, and communication. This structure ensures that policies and procedures are strictly followed in each operation, ensuring consistent strategy execution and a conscious focus on positive impact on society and the environment.

Ethics and Integrity: Values Defining Our Organizational Culture

At AgroAmerica, our values are the essence of our culture. They define and differentiate us in the market, guiding our sustainability strategy at all levels of operation. We support the implementation of our Code of Ethics through policies that promote compliance, from the Ethics Line for claims and complaints to policies regarding Conflict of Interests and Global Anti-Corruption.

Rigorous Compliance: Guarantee of Transparency and Accountability

AgroAmerica assumes the immense responsibility of monitoring and ensuring supplier compliance and establishing high standards of responsible production and marketing. Our Due Diligence System evaluates suppliers, rejecting those not complying with our standards. We have a robust compliance program to mitigate all operational risks, maintain a strong culture of discipline, adhere to regulations, and comply with several international certifications.

Our Commitment to Corporate Responsibility

At AgroAmerica, ethical governance and compliance are the fundamental framework that leads our actions, processes, and decisions. They are expressions of our commitment to corporate responsibility. These pillars guide us in the present and are essential to building a sustainable and ethical future.

soil care and preservation
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Soil Care and Preservation: A Priority for AgroAmerica

by Webmaster
Soil Care and Preservation

Soil Care and Preservation: A Priority for AgroAmerica

In compliance with our Environmental Commitment and Management Policy, we actively engage in soil care and preservation and recognize its fundamental role in sustainable agriculture. We continuously assess and monitor the environment to ensure that our practices adhere to the highest standards for environmental responsibility.

Rigorous Soil Health Monitoring

We continually pursue improvements while carrying out detailed monitoring of environmental parameters that directly impact soil health. We thoroughly evaluate every aspect of soil health to ensure that our operations are productive and regenerative.

Training in the Responsible Use of Agricultural Products

We consistently provide training in the responsible use of agricultural products with a focus on implementing sustainable soil conservation practices. Our field staff is well trained in the proper methods for the handling, use and application of these inputs. Specialized personnel are responsible for each training topic in order to meet the highest agricultural production standards.

Classification and Safety Protocols

Understanding the classification, management and risk reduction in the handling of agricultural products is essential to ensure their correct use while maintaining soil integrity. The established safety protocols we use are designed to preserve soil health and structure while protecting people in the field.

A Continuous Commitment to Soil Sustainability

Beyond mere compliance with agricultural standards, at AgroAmerica we are committed to continuously improving our operations. Our policies include innovation and implementation of sustainable practices that nourish and strengthen the soil. This commitment is not only an aspect of our operations but is also a responsibility to help protect this vital resource for future generations.

Toward a Sustainable Future: Caring for the Soil and the Planet

AgroAmerica has made a strong commitment to soil care. We are building an agro-industrial sector where food production and resource conservation coexist harmoniously. We are promoting productivity and the regeneration of nature for a sustainable future.

transparency in the supply chain
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The importance of transparency in the supply chain

by Webmaster
Transparency in the supply chain

The importance of transparency in the supply chain

Transparency in the supply chain enables effective and sustainable business management. Firstly, it builds trust among employees, clients, investors, and stakeholders, fostering long-term business relationships. Additionally, transparency in all processes encourages adopting more sustainable practices, enhances efficiency, and reinforces social responsibility while contributing to a solid reputation and positive market image.

Supply chain and transparency

The supply chain must maintain transparency by communicating as much information as possible about its production and business activities, both internally and externally. Transparency is a crucial aspect of corporate social responsibility that impacts business success for several reasons:

  • Enables suppliers to understand the company’s requirements and expectations, assisting them in adhering to international standards of quality, production, and sustainability.
  • Improves the safety and quality of products, enhancing customer satisfaction and trust.
  • Facilitates the identification of risks and collaborative problem-solving by involving all actors in the value chain
  • Contributes to achieving sustainable management by establishing clear policies and procedures.
  • It supports sustainable development.

At AgroAmerica, we understand the importance of transparency in the supply chain. From production to marketing, we ensure that our business practices are ethical, fair, and sustainable. This involves providing clear and accurate information about our operations and engaging our suppliers and business partners.

What are we doing to achieve transparency in our supply chain? 

We collaborate with our business partners, suppliers, certifiers, employees, and clients to enhance transparency throughout our supply chain processes. A significant pillar of this effort is strengthening the capacities of small producers and suppliers who work with us. Through continuous support, training, and space for experience sharing, we are working on initiatives to help them improve sustainability in their operations and, at the same time, promote greater transparency.

Furthermore, continuously improving business practices also involves reinforcing mechanisms to ensure respect for human rights and awareness. We constantly train our employees in areas related to corporate policies, including ethics, human rights, and anti-corruption. We also communicate these activities through various internal and external channels. By doing so, we aim to promote a good work environment that positively impacts production.

Transparency in the supply chain is crucial for building strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and stakeholders. At AgroAmerica, we hold more than ten international certifications related to good production practices, environmental management, sustainability, secure trade, quality, and food safety. This helps ensure a sustainable and responsible operation.

Transparency requires genuine commitment from companies to improve their practices and processes continually. Hence, at AgroAmerica we work continuously to achieve a more transparent and sustainable supply chain.

Importance of Mangroves
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Importance of Mangroves in Mitigating Climate Change

by Webmaster
Mangroves and climate change

Importance of Mangroves in Mitigating Climate Change

Mangroves are a true ecological treasure located in coastal areas around the world. They are precious ecosystems that perform various functions, including being home to many species of marine and terrestrial biodiversity and aiding in mitigating climate change.

Carbon Capture: A Remarkable Impact on the Environmental Footprint

One of the main contributions of mangroves to the environment is their unique ability to capture carbon. Through a process known as “carbon sequestration,” these ecosystems can store significant amounts of atmospheric carbon dioxide in their tissues and soils. This is why mangroves and wetlands are known as carbon sinks. 

Mangroves store up to three times more carbon than tropical forests, containing large stores of carbon accumulated in their sediments over thousands of years.  This function is pivotal for mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and reducing global warming.

Investing in Mangrove Restoration and Conservation as a Winning Strategy

In a world battling against the climate crisis, investing in mangrove restoration and conservation emerges as a winning strategy. At AgroAmerica, we have led mangrove conservation projects in collaboration with various organizations like Rainforest Alliance, the National Institute of Forests (INAB Guatemala), and others. These projects yield environmental and social benefits and offer opportunities for participation and leadership in climate action.

Mangroves are strategic allies in the fight against climate change. Their ability to capture large amounts of carbon, protect coastlines, and provide shelter to thousands of species makes them one of the most important ecosystems on our planet. With the leadership of companies, communities, authorities, and environmental organizations, we can ensure their protection and conservation, aiming for a sustainable future.

The Crucial Role of Mangroves in Coastal Protection
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The Crucial Role of Mangroves in Coastal Protection

by Webmaster
Role of Mangroves

The Crucial Role of Mangroves in Coastal Protection

Mangroves are extraordinary ecosystems found in coastal areas around the world. Often overlooked, these tidal forests play a fundamental role in coastal protection.

Natural Barriers against Storms and Floods

Mangroves are renowned as natural shields. Their dense root systems and trees act as effective barriers against storms and floods. When the powerful waves and winds of a tropical storm or hurricane reach the coast, mangroves absorb their energy, reducing the impact on inhabited areas. It protects communities from catastrophic damages and material losses.

Water Filters and Protection of Water Quality

These ecosystems also function as natural filters. The roots of the mangroves trap sediments and other materials, helping to purify the water flowing into the sea. This is essential for maintaining water quality in marine ecosystems and preserving the health of coral reefs, another vital component of coastal ecosystems.

Critical Habitats for Marine Life

In addition to protecting the land, mangroves provide a unique marine life habitat. Fish, crabs, birds, and other animals rely on mangroves for breeding and shelter. By preserving mangroves, we are supporting these species and maintaining the biodiversity of our oceans.

Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation

Beyond their importance in coastal protection, mangroves also play a critical role in mitigating climate change. By storing large amounts of carbon in their biomass and soil, they help reduce carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, contributing to the slowdown of global warming.

Mangroves are ecosystems of great importance to the planet. Their role in coastal protection, water purification, and climate change mitigation is essential. To contribute to their preservation, at AgroAmerica, we work with different allies on projects focused on caring for and restoring these valuable natural ecosystems that provide thousands of benefits for the planet, animals, and communities.

AgroAmerica finalist in the 2023 Reuters Awards
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AgroAmerica Finalist in the 2023 Reuters Awards

by Webmaster
AgroAmerica stands out as a finalist in the 2023 Reuters Awards

AgroAmerica was a finalist at the Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards 2023 in London

LONDON, November 1, 2023 – AgroAmerica was a finalist in the Social Impact category at the 14th Responsible Business Awards hosted by Reuters Events. The awards ceremony was held at an in-person gala in London to celebrate sustainable business excellence.

AgroAmerica’s Bana-Nutrition project was one of the finalists in the Social Impact category due to its achievements in the fight against acute childhood malnutrition in Guatemala. Through this program, the beneficiary communities have learned to produce their own banana flour in an artisanal way and to cook nutritious foods for children. In addition, the program also helps to reduce food waste by taking advantage of surplus banana production to transform it into flour.

“As a leading food corporation, we developed the Bana-Nutrition program aligned with our mission to provide the world with high-quality, sustainable, and nutritious food. We are working to help build communities where people become empowered to take food security and nutrition into their own hands” explained Fernando Bolaños, CEO of AgroAmerica.

With more than 700 applications from 51 countries, the Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards are highly competitive recognitions among companies from different sectors worldwide. These are a world-renowned celebration of strategies and organizations that are truly challenging the status quo of business and transforming the world around them for a more sustainable future for all.

To find out more about Reuters Events Responsible Business Awards, you can visit:

https://events.reutersevents.com/sustainable-business/responsible-business-awards 

   

The Regenerative Practices of AgroAmerica
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The Regenerative Practices of AgroAmerica: Innovating for a Sustainable Future

by Webmaster
Regenerative Practices

The Regenerative Practices of AgroAmerica: Innovating for a Sustainable Future

Our Approach

At AgroAmerica, we understand the importance of working today to ensure a better tomorrow. Our focus on regenerative practices sets the standard for responsible performance. These practices guarantee the production of sustainable and healthy foods and seek a positive impact on our environment and the surrounding communities.

Environmental Management and Commitment Policy

Our Environmental Management and Commitment Policy is framed by this approach and prioritizes the preservation and restoration of ecosystems. Below, we detail how we are implementing each area of our policy:

Environmental Quality Management

Through proactive and responsible practices, we work to minimize and prevent negative environmental impacts and enhance positive impacts. We achieve this through comprehensive solid waste management, functional wastewater treatment systems, water recirculation for various processes, and employee awareness training, among other practices and processes.

We also avoid damage and ensure the regeneration of affected areas with tools for environmental assessment, control and monitoring. Our aim is to engage our stakeholders by transferring knowledge and sharing experiences to promote best practices at all levels.

Sustainable Management of Natural Heritage

The conservation of biodiversity in watersheds near our areas of influence is essential to maintain the balance of the ecosystem. In order to promote long-term intersectoral sustainability, we are committed to the protection and restoration of natural areas of interest, such as riparian zones and coastal marine ecosystems.

Regeneration Projects

Our regeneration projects are designed to promote biodiversity in protected forest areas. We create green spaces that serve as a home to various species of flora and fauna and are also of interest to environmental institutions and communities.

Ongoing Training and Development

AgroAmerica knows that in order to transform our environment we need to strengthen the skills of our employees so that environmental management becomes an integral part of their daily work. In 2022, we trained more than 5,230 employees in environmental practices and policies through 17 environmental training workshops.

Certifications and Audits

Last year we demonstrated our dedication to best management practices through 24 audits conducted and approved by government agencies. We also carried out 33 internal environmental monitoring processes to ensure our commitment to ecological preservation.

The Future Is Regenerative

On our path to the future, our focus on regenerative practices will remain our guide, using a strategy that seeks to preserve, revitalize, and restore. We place people and nature at the center of our operations every step of the way. We promote social, environmental and economic development while increasing productivity to provide the world with sustainable, high-quality food.

Commitment to Biodiversity
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AgroAmerica’s Commitment to Biodiversity: Preserving Our Ecosystems for Future Generations

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AgroAmerica’s Commitment to Biodiversity: Preserving Our Ecosystems for Future Generations

Commitment to Biodiversity

The natural balance of our planet depends primarily on biological diversity. AgroAmerica is fully aware of our responsibility to protect biodiversity, so we have implemented a series of initiatives focused on protecting and promoting a healthy coexistence between our operations and the surrounding ecosystems.

Committed to Protecting Flora and Fauna

AgroAmerica is committed to protecting biological diversity and supporting various species’ survival. We have identified more than 50 species of flora and over 70 species of fauna within our operational areas and carry out strategic initiatives to contribute to their preservation.

Restoring and Protecting Biodiversity 

Plant Nursery: An Oasis of Life

Our nursery has cultivated over 75,000 native seedlings. We donated over 33,600 tree saplings for riverbank reforestation, taking a significant step toward a more environmentally sustainable and balanced future.

Innovation and Biodiversity: The Pollinators Project

The Pollinators Project is a unique initiative in Central America dedicated to conserving native bees through the creation of ‘BeeBoxes.’ Each of these spaces serves as a sanctuary for more than 30,000 bees, including 900 solitary and 2,000 stingless bees. Through this initiative, we aim to protect these valuable pollinators in conserved areas within our operations.

Protecting Central America’s Green Heart: The Maya Biosphere Reserve

By working with organizations such as the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) and the National Council of Protected Areas, we have contributed to the conservation of more than 19,000 hectares in the community of El Peru-Paso Caballos in Peten. This collective effort seeks to preserve the natural wealth and biodiversity of the Laguna del Tigre National Park, an environmental gem in Guatemala.

A Legacy That Protects the Planet

At AgroAmerica, we understand the importance of biodiversity and work diligently on high-impact projects to protect and revitalize our ecosystems for the well-being of future generations. We are creating a legacy of love and respect for our Mother Earth.

technology
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Technology in the service of sustainability and society

by Webmaster
Technology

Technology in the service of sustainability and society

Technology has revolutionized how companies operate and relate to society and the environment. In the agroindustrial sector, technology has made it possible to develop more sustainable and efficient practices in production processes, making it a critical tool in social responsibility and ensuring long-term sustainability.

Technology and the environment

Using new technologies helps to optimize efficiency in crop productivity and minimize environmental impact. AgroAmerica uses reservoirs to collect rainwater, as well as irrigation systems such as micro-sprinkling and probes that consider the weather season and soil humidity in real-time. This has managed to reduce water consumption by 50% compared tothe use of traditional systems. In addition, we use techniques that help us protect and promote soil heath. In this regard, we reuse 80% of the banana plant as organic matter for the soil. In addition, we have nine weather stations that provide data on precipitation, humidity and other factors that help control crop diseases, reducing the application of other products. Likewise, preventive actions are carried out against Fusarium TR4.

Technology also contributes to productivity

Implementing technology in production processes makes it possible to innovate and optimize productivity while achieving greater sustainability. In this way, we develop new products, accomplish circularity in the use of materials, work to reduce our carbon footprint, generate better employment opportunities, and contribute to the economic development of the countries where we operate.

Natural Ingredients Plant

In this sense, AgroAmerica has a Natural Ingredients Plant and an Innovation and Development Laboratory for new products. The R&D Laboratory is an innovation center for developing new products and banana food ingredients. Then, at the plant, we transform the surplus of our banana production into upcycled natural ingredients. This allows us to make the most of not-exported bananas under the “Zero Waste” Principle to provide nutritious food with added value.

Natural Ingredients Plant Award

The Natural Ingredients Plant received the “Recognition to Sustainability” award from the Guatemalan-American Chamber of Commerce -AMCHAM- in the environmental category in 2021.

Working together to innovate

Searching for solutions to current challenges has also allowed us to collaborate with other institutions, environmental organizations, and allies to work together in developing new technology for implementing environmental projects. An example is our bee conservation project in Guatemala, developed by our strategic partner BeeHub.

Technology has positively impacted corporate social responsibility by enabling the implementation of more sustainable practices in food production and the development of innovative solutions. AgroAmerica’s commitment is to innovate and use technology to ensure a more sustainable future.