EUDR Compliance Means Changing Long-Held Habits for Honduran Coffee Farmers – CoffeeTalk

In the 1970s, land in the mountains of Concepción de Soluteca, Honduras, was granted to Roberto González’s parents, leading them to clear forested land for agriculture. They grew staple crops like corn, beans, and bananas, but faced difficult living conditions with limited infrastructure. By the time González inherited the land, coffee farming had become a promising venture, initially improving the economic situation of local farmers. However, poor farming practices contributed to declining yields, exacerbated by a coffee rust outbreak around 2012. This catalyzed poverty and migration among farmers, including González, who acknowledged their lack of knowledge regarding sustainable practices.

The European Union’s antideforestation regulation (EUDR) has since prompted a shift in farming methods for many smallholders. Importantly, farmers must enhance agricultural practices to continue exporting coffee to Europe. González, now part of the Union and Strength Agricultural Cooperative, sells a significant portion of his harvest to Becamo S.A., a top coffee exporter in Honduras. The implementation of the EUDR has required exporters, including Becamo, to ensure compliance with stringent sustainability standards, which includes documenting practices that prevent deforestation.

Becamo has aided farmers by offering consulting services, helping them adapt to the new regulations. Compliance entails a thorough process that involves farm surveys, verifying land titles, and adhering to labor laws. Farmers have noticed improvements in their practices due to EUDR requirements, addressing issues such as declining harvests, climate change effects, and water scarcity. Integrating sustainable farming methods, like avoiding pesticides and enhancing soil health, has created a more environmentally friendly coffee production system.

Despite progress, challenges persist, particularly regarding cultural practices like child labor on farms, which are often a consequence of economic instability and lack of childcare options. Mobile childcare initiatives have been introduced to address this. Additionally, farmers have faced difficulties related to technological adaptation, with issues like poor internet connectivity and a lack of familiarity with agricultural apps hindering compliance.

Digitalization spurred by the EUDR has offered opportunities for small farmers, yet there are concerns about data ownership and accessibility. While Becamo’s system provides some functions to farmers, full ownership of their data remains a challenge, potentially complicating transfers between exporters. Alternative solutions exist, but cost and functionality issues limit accessibility for many. Support from governmental and non-profit organizations is crucial for enabling farmers to navigate these changes effectively.

In conclusion, the EUDR serves as a dual-edged sword: it fosters modernization and sustainability within the coffee industry in Honduras while simultaneously posing challenges for vulnerable farmers who may struggle to adapt. Continued investment in infrastructure and education is essential for ensuring that digitalization enhances rather than excludes rural coffee producers.

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