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Rice
Fair & Good
Project Fair & Good (Fairtrade and Organic)
In 1997, we introduced the first organic rice into our range. Five years later, we began sourcing Fairtrade rice, initially from Thailand and one year later from India. We are convinced that sustainably produced rice is the best choice – for both producers and consumers. And because we believe that the combination of organic and Fairtrade is ideal, we started planning a unique project in 2010: The sustainability project 'fair & good' in India and Thailand, which combines Fairtrade and organic. This meaningful project is also supported by Coop, Helvetas, and other partners.
Organic Rice and Fair Trade
We work with Thai farmers living in the dry northeastern region of Thailand and with Indian farmers in the northern part of India, in the so-called foothills of the Himalayas, who cultivate high-quality organic rice. The traditional rice varieties – Jasmine and Basmati rice – are produced according to the strictest organic standards and under fair working conditions.
Continuous training and the development of the farmers' own skills are key foundations for the success of the project, which now includes over 3,500 small-scale farmers. They farm small plots of land, averaging 1 hectare, either manually or with the help of equipment shared with other farmers in the cooperative. The farmers can market their products under the Fairtrade Max Havelaar label from Fairtrade International (FLOCERT).
The Fairtrade minimum price ensures financial stability and serves as a safety net in case of price fluctuations. The additional Fairtrade premium can be used to finance investments in the cooperative’s infrastructure or for general projects in the individual villages.
On-site project support and regular motivational visits are essential pillars of the project. This ensures that the well-being of the individual farmers and the community can be maintained. The ‘fair & good’ rice project has a positive impact on both the people and the environment, securing their future. By purchasing these delicious rice varieties, more and more conscious consumers are sustainably improving the living conditions of the rice farmers.
Project Results
Organic Farming
Avoidance of Synthetic Fertilizers and Pesticides:
- Improved water quality
- Promoted biodiversity
- Protected health
Water-Saving and Yield-Enhancing Cultivation Methods:
- System of Rice Intensification
- Alternate Wetting and Drying
- Line Sowing
Improvement of Soil Quality
More Efficient Irrigation and Significant Water Savings
Organic Compost and Fertilizers
Reduction of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Promotion of Crop Rotation Products
Efficient Water Use and Management
Promotion of Water-Saving Cultivation Methods:
- System of Rice Intensification
- Alternate Wetting and Drying
- Line Sowing
Expand and Renovate Water Infrastructure:
- Repair of irrigation canals
- Revival of springs
- Construction of water reservoirs and storage tanks
- Installation of pumps and pipelines
- Distribution of drinking water pipes, water coolers, and filters
Construction of 3,900 Biogas Plants (by 2018) and Associated Manure Pits
Minimize Greenhouse Gases and Deforestation
- Use of biogas for cooking (instead of firewood): Improved indoor air quality
- Organic compost and fertilizers