"Best Social and Environmental Practices in Agribusiness" guide updates the main environmental and labor laws applicable to farmers
To foster the sustainable development of Brazil’s agribusiness, Rabobank is sharing relevant knowledge that helps farmers to develop their business. The Guide was developed with an easy-to-understand language, illustrations, and examples. In addition, farmers can self-diagnose their property status. They can make plans considering improvements and applying practices that will make their business more responsive and sustainable. Here is what you can find in Rabobank Brasil's Best Social and Environmental Agricultural Practices Guide:
Banking regulations
Some banking regulations are directly linked to farm finance. To get credit authorized, farmers need to comply with regulations related to the property, sustainability, and employment, among other things.
The Guide features leading regulations, such as the Rural Credit Handbook (MCR), Central Bank of Brazil (Bacen) resolutions, and forest code laws, in addition to their corresponding requirements.
Property law
Rural labor is regulated by the Constitution and follows the Consoldatio of Labor Laws (CLT). The Guide features several aspects, such as working conditions to be complied with by farmers, including employee contracts, working hours, compensation, documentation, safety standards, infrastructure, safety, health, and much more. In addition, a form is available to rate and assess properties as regards the main labor aspects.
Social and environmental diagnosis of the property
Sustainable development and production in agribusiness are key for the sector to continue generating food with a minimal impact on the environment. The Guide covers everything that farmers need to learn about legislation and environmental licensing, contributing to a more sustainable business and the preservation of Brazil's biomes. It is also possible to fill out a form to diagnose the property’s environmental status. It is possible to assess these issues and plan for improvements, making your business even more sustainable.
Best socio-environmental agricultural practices
Everyone in society must care for the environment. In Agro, this is an even more important mission, as the activities are strictly dependent on natural resources. Research and academic organizations in Brazil have developed several practices and techniques for the better use and preservation of these resources while caring for human health and improving labor conditions. These are called Best Social and Environmental Agricultural Practices (BPAS).
The BPAS are a set of principles, standards, and technical recommendations that must be applied in the production system, processing, and transport. They are part of a plan targeted to long-term sustainability in agribusiness. Furthermore, they contribute to minimizing risks in production, reducing climate change, adding greater value to products, and fostering fairer social relations.
This chapter was developed by WWF Brazil, a Rabobank partner, and offers several real-life case studies.