Costco has introduced new commitments, in its latest sustainability report, to reduce deforestation risks in its avocado supply chain.
In particular, the US retail company will require its suppliers to use practices that avoid sourcing from illegally deforested lands, increase the proportion of its products that are certified by the Rainforest Alliance and Fair Trade, and monitor progress through annual supply chain mapping and risk assessments.
This commitment comes after As You Sow withdrew a shareholder resolution requesting greater transparency on Costco’s supplier due-diligence efforts.
"Costco's commitment to tackle deforestation in its avocado supply chain represents meaningful progress on an urgent environmental risk," Elizabeth Levy, As You Sow biodiversity programme coordinator stated. "When major retailers take deforestation seriously, it creates positive ripple effects throughout the entire supply chain