We are thrilled and honoured to have been nominated for the Earthshot Prize 2023 in the category of Restoration and Protection of Nature. This nomination recognises our commitment to making a positive impact on the environment through sustainable practices, and we are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this global movement towards a better future for all.
Restoring Nature and Fostering Resilience: The Criteria of the Earthshot Prize
For those who may not be familiar with the Earthshot Prize, it's a global environmental prize founded by Prince William and The Royal Foundation, aimed at inspiring and rewarding innovative solutions to the world's greatest environmental challenges.
But what does the Earthshot Prize entail? The prize is based on five Earthshots or goals that need to be achieved by 2030 to create a better future for our planet.
These goals are:
Protect and Restore Nature
Clean our Air
Revive our Oceans
Build a Waste-free World
Fix our Climate.
The Protect and Restore Nature category, for which Rio Nuevo has been nominated, focuses on the development of new solutions that help restore and protect the natural ecosystems that sustain life on earth.
Empowering Cacao Farmers as Agents of Change for Forest Restoration and Protection
At Rio Nuevo, we are deeply committed to the restoration and protection of nature, and we believe that the nomination for the Earthshot Prize is a recognition of the important role that our cacao farmers play in this effort. Our vision and mission focus on working with communities in some of the most vulnerable ecosystems in our planet, including the Amazon Rainforest and Cloud Forest of Ecuador, to develop and scale regenerative agriculture and protect forests and damaged ecosystems through responsible cacao production.
Our farmer partners implement regenerative agricultural practices that promote biodiversity and protect the surrounding ecosystems. By supporting indigenous stewardship and promoting sustainable farming, Rio Nuevo Chocolate is committed to conserving the natural resources that our farmers rely on for their livelihoods and to ensure the longevity of these ecosystems for generations to come.
Our Commitment to Sustainability: Rio Nuevo's Connection to the Earthshot Prize Criteria and Sustainable Development Goals
As an ethical chocolate company, Rio Nuevo is committed to sustainable sourcing and production practices. Our vision and mission focus on restoring and protecting nature, reducing poverty and inequality, and promoting decent work and economic growth.
Rio Nuevo Chocolate's commitment to sustainable and ethical practices is also linked to the sustainable development goals of no poverty, zero hunger, decent work and economic growth, and reduced inequalities.
Through our agreements with our farmer partners, we ensure that the cacao we buy will not originate from deforested land or converted natural ecosystems. By doing so, we help protect and restore natural ecosystems, encourage the uptake of regenerative agricultural land-use practices, and contribute to the restoration of damaged landscapes.
A Shared Responsibility: Customers' Role in Driving Ethical Supply Chains
We believe that creating a better future is a shared responsibility, and we recognise that our customers play a significant role in this journey to restore and protect nature. Without our customers, we would not be able to support our farmers and create a positive impact on the environment.
By choosing to support companies that are committed to sustainable and ethical practices, our customers help to create a demand for sustainably sourced products and support the farmers who are making positive changes in the industry. Without our customers and our farmers, we could not contribute to changing the chocolate industry and its supply chain for the better.
Our Nomination for the Earthshot Prize: A Catalyst for Change in the Chocolate Industry
Rio Nuevo's nomination for the Earthshot Prize is not only an honour but also a catalyst for change in the chocolate industry.
We are humbled and grateful for the recognition of our efforts to make a positive impact. We will continue to work with our farmer partners, customers, and other stakeholders to drive positive change in the chocolate industry and beyond.
Join us in the quest for a better future by choosing ethical products and supporting companies that prioritise sustainability, environmental and social justice.