Partnership with WWF

The Sustainable Dairy Chain, WWF Netherlands and Rabobank want to promote biodiversity through a new earnings model with stacked rewards in the chain. With this in mind the biodiversity monitor was developed, an instrument that unambiguously measures farmers' sustainable results and encourages improvement. Value chain parties & stakeholders can then link rewards to that performance, such as subsidies, better (milk) prices, sustainability bonuses and interest rate discounts. This biodiversity monitor is now also used in arable farming.

Together with the large salmon producers in Chile, Rabobank and WWF Chile have mapped out the steps required to achieve ASC certification while preserving biodiversity in the ecosystem, and support them in achieving (or accelerating) ASC certification. In accordance with ASC requirements, we have additionally developed a "social toolkit", including modules for both farmed salmon producers and local communities. This strengthens the relationship between the two.

Rabobank and WWF Chile are establishing the way fruit producing customers of Rabobank Chile could best contribute to the conservation and restoration of biodiversity and functional ecosystems in the landscape through regenerative agriculture. This project is already engaging with clients to demonstrate the feasibility of implementing regenerative practices in their production processes through the presentation of successful experiences. Additionally, outputs will provide specific guidance and support for customers, as well as potential Key Performance Indicators for implementing the regenerative agricultural practices prioritized and promoted in the project.

WWF India, Rabobank India, one of the largest sugar producers operating in a subtropical and tropical climate, and a major international food producer (and buyer of sugar cane) have developed a tool to promote more efficient water management. The tool leads to more efficient water management for both farmers and large sugar cane producers. It lowers the risks of water scarcity for both sugar cane production and the conservation and restoration of soil and biodiversity in the landscape. The tiger, for example, can also benefit because its habitat is reduced less. In addition, this project will lead to a benchmark for the sugar industry in India and perhaps in other parts of the world, consistent with the BONSUCRO standard.

Together with Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA), the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) and two major international beef buyers, WWF Australia and Rabobank are investigating the effects of regenerative grazing on improving soil quality. This improves the soil, increases its CO2 storage capacity, and creates a healthier ecosystem. The research results should lead to specific recommendations for clients (farmers) on how regenerative grazing can improve soil quality. The project is part of a national program led by MLA to make the livestock sector carbon neutral by 2030.