Activities of the ABNB and its members
Since its constitution in late 2016, the ABNB has developed working groups and initiated several project approaches, some of which are already being implemented. Among them are:
• Biodiversity: “From Farm to Fork – Mainstreaming Sustainability in Banana and Pineapple Value Chains” – carried out by GIZ and Global Nature Fund, ABNB involved as a partner
• Consumer communication: video to increase the appreciation of bananas as an exclusive product
The following are additional projects that have been or are being implemented by members.
Climate Project in Peru with Kaufland
Climate change is already evident today. The effects pose major challenges in particular for farmers in developing countries. For example, the province of Piura is threatened with heavy crop losses in banana cultivation – the main source of income for more than 3,000 small farmers. A higher level of parasite plagues caused by climate change, particularly in the case of organic bananas, made bananas unsuitable for export.
Contribution of the tourism sector to the restoration and protection of the biodiversity of coastal areas and the Caribbean sea with Global Nature Fund
Hotels and restaurants in the Dominican Republic buy up to 100 different agricultural products for the supply of guests and employees. According to the Farmers’ Association, more than 90% of these products now come from the country itself. With almost six million international guests, the tourism sector has a direct influence on land use on the island. Bananas are one of the most popular products because they are not only used as fruit but also as cooked bananas (plantains) in Dominican cuisine. Therefore, hotels and restaurants are supported with a biodiversity check to identify and manage impacts on biodiversity. At the same time, banana producers are being prepared for new criteria. Distributors should differentiate their product range.
Productivity Improvement Programme (PIP) for Fairtrade Small Farmers in the Banana Sector with Fairtrade
The focus of the project is on the improvement of plants and soil fertility through the supply of nutrients. The organic fertilizer is produced from the organic raw materials available in the region. In addition, there are trainings on farming and harvesting methods, water management (especially in dry regions), transport and packaging.
