What is Mars role in cocoa sustainability?
Cocoa is the lifeblood of many of Mars’ critical brands. It is referred to as an orphan crop that often does not receive sufficient government support in regions where it is grown. Situation analysis in the 1990’s indicated that gaps existed in breeding and farming education programs and that little was being done to address the problem. The current situation is more complex and social and environmental issues are driving consumers, NGO’s and government officials to become active players. Mars, Incorporated has been a leader in organizing and driving the cocoa community into action. Many programs led and funded by Mars have brought the industry together with leaders in other related fields, providing education for farmers, conducting research for the development of pest/disease resistant cocoa crops, and much more.
