Route De Cacao is Belfine's own sustainability programme supporting 175 cocoa farmers in the village of Tigorikro, Ivory Coast. We contribute to a healthy ecosystem for both cocoa farming communities and the planet by focusing on various aspects.

For instance, cocoa farmers get trained all year-round to improve their yield and quality. At our post-harvest center, wet beans undergo strict quality control. Farmers who meet quality standards are paid a quality premium on top of the farmgate price. The tailored fermentation process at the center ensures the best consistent chocolate taste.

Through the Chocolate Bonus we help improve the lives of farmers and their community in Tigorikro. For example, teachers’ houses and yearly schoolkits are increasing educational opportunities and quality; A solar-powered water tank is providing potable water; A workplace with a maize and rice mill is empowering women and diversifying their income; A Child Labour Monitoring and Remediation System is combatting unacceptable forms of child labour. Agroforestry, tree planting and digital mapping of lands are protecting Ivorian nature.

Every month we check with two local families and the women's association to see how our social projects are progressing and whether we need to adjust our approach

We take our responsabilities in the fight against climate change. Latest climate science from the IPCC described by the UN states a "code red for humanity". But it also shows that it is still possible to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C.

Our target is to emit 42% less greenhouse gasses (Scope 1 & 2) by 2030 compared to 2020. Our greenhouse gas reducing efforts follow the system of the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). Our greenhouse gas footprint mapping and emission reduction targets are approved by SBTi.

We have emission reduction plan that we are implementing and that we monitor, review and update periodically. Until we reach zero greenhouse gas emissions, remaining emissions are compensated through investment in several Gold standard projects: renewable energy projects, afforestation and reforestation projects, effficient cookstoves in Africa.

After third-party audit, we are certified against the Climate Activator Certification Standard of Anthesis B.V. for greenhouse gas emissions of scope 1, scope 2 and specific aspects of scope 3, being business travel and employee commuting. We are therefore proudly using the Climate Activator trademark.

For more information, see:
www.climateactivator.org
Our Climate Policy
Climate Activator certificate valid until April 10, 2026.