Jana Berschneider
Forum Replies Created
-
Posts
-
4.1) Check whether deforestation or conversion of HCVs has taken place, and if so, during what period. It is irrelevant whether the conversion took place on cultivated land or on other land belonging to the farm.
a. According to Poterra requirements, no deforestation or conversion may have taken place after December 31, 2008. If this can be proven, 4.1.1 is fulfilled.
b. Check whether national and international conventions have also been complied with.
c. Evidence can be obtained from appropriate tools, such as those listed in Annex D based on GIS Data or Satellite images. Examples of credible satellite data are GRAS, PRODES, Global Forest Watch, etc.
d. The size of the areas must be taken into account, because if the areas are larger than 4 ha, polygons must be specified.If so, check the date to see whether this took place between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2020. In this case, certification is not certain. It must be clarified in advance by the ProTerra certification Commitee whether appropriate measures have been implemented and suitable compensations for the cleared areas are recognized. If the measures are sufficiently formulated and implemented, the certification process can continue.
However, its important to assure that compensation and restoration are complete or in advanced implementation phase, and show robustness and success. Additionally, its necessary to gather information by external experts as well as from affected stakeholders under consideration of a Free Prior and Informed Consent.4.2) In order to better understand and evaluate the specific local risks, I would consult with local experts from research institutions or environmentalists. If critical regions or issues are discussed, I would take a closer look at these, e.g., erosion on a steep slope, investigate on site whether the problem exists, and ask to see an action plan. This plan must show that the problem has been identified and effective solutions have been implemented.
This is because, according to Proterra requirements, vegetation, habitats, and natural biodiversity must be preserved. For smaller farmers, this is discussed with the processor.
Endangered and rare species must be protected, and invasive species must not be introduced. If pests have been introduced prior to certification, they must be controlled. However, this should only be done with means approved by the standard. This can also be discussed with external experts or local communities. In advance, discussions with residents and species conservationists should be held to find out which species these could be so that appropriate attention can be paid to them.4.3) Review of the Environmental, Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) plan.
I would pay attention to how well informed the farmers or the responsible processors are in the case of smallholders.
Based on the management plan, I would want to know where the information on biodiversity comes from and whether it is up to date. I would also want to know whether it goes beyond the boundaries of the farm. One example is the IBAT tool, which can be used to record biodiversity. Other local national tools can also identify Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs).
I would ask to see such tools and have them explained to me.The person responsible (either the farmer or processor in case of small farmers) should be able to report on the risks of the impact of agricultural activities and have an overview of how these can be controlled or optimized in favor of biodiversity.
For example, reducing or replacing pesticides if they have negative effects on more than just pests or invasive species. It is important to note whether there have been any expansions or changes in activities (e.g., change of crops sown). This means that the management plans also need to be revised. The overall picture must be senseful, harmonized to the activities and the landscape or production are, detailed , comprehensible an up to date.Check whether high-quality seeds are used and whether they are GMO-free. Check the exact designation and approval, comparing it with the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety if necessary.
4.4) Access to a map of the farm. This must be complete, comprehensible, and accurate. Important information includes green strips and buffer zones that provide habitat for wildlife. It must be clear that the farm is responsible not only for its own operations, but also for the surrounding environment.
Overall, the farm should operate in a careful and environmentally conscious and respectful manner. For example, it should only use targeted irrigation and energy-saving equipment and switch off the energy supply when not in use.Hello, my name is Jana and I started working at Proterra as a policy and engagement manager in October 2025. I already have experience in supply chain management, but have not yet worked for standards organizations. I am looking forward to gaining a better understanding of the standards so that I can conduct effective consultations with stakeholders.
