Sky News reported today that the UK’s voracious demand for commodities like soy, cocoa, palm oil, beef, and leather is exerting “enormous pressure” on the world’s forests, our planet’s lungs.
The Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) has highlighted in a stark report that the intensity of the UK’s consumption, measured by its footprint per tonne of product consumed, surpasses even that of China. Philip Dunne, the EAC chair, has deemed this a “wake-up call to the government,” emphasising the UK’s “unsustainable impact on the planet.”
At TETA, a consortium dedicated to pioneering solutions in trade, we see these developments as a precursor to broader changes. With the government already focusing on commodities directly linked to deforestation, it’s likely that coffee, a major global commodity with significant environmental impact, is next in line for government scrutiny.
The absence of a specific timeline for the introduction of new sustainable trading legislation has created an atmosphere of uncertainty in the trade sector. However, one thing is clear: the need for sustainable practices is not just a trend but a vital shift in how we conduct global trade.
The committee’s report underscores the urgency of addressing deforestation, a concern deeply intertwined with agricultural commodities like coffee.
Coffee importers, therefore, have every reason to keep a keen eye on these developments. The industry’s vast supply chain, from remote farms to global markets, makes it particularly vulnerable to changes in regulatory landscapes. But with these challenges come opportunities to lead in the adoption of sustainable practices.
This is where TETA steps in. Our mission, to usher in an era of ‘real-time trusted trader’ through efficient, inter-connected technology-driven solutions, is more relevant now than ever. We understand that navigating the web of international trade regulations and ensuring supply chain transparency can be daunting. Our consortium approach, led by the contracting entity TETA, is designed to offer a comprehensive solution to these challenges.
We are combining cutting-edge solutions like satellite technology, smart freight and customs clearance to provide a seamless, transparent, and efficient trade experience. For instance, satellite data and imagery can monitor coffee plantations, ensuring they comply with sustainable practices and reducing the need for physical inspections. Similarly, smart freight and customs clearance solutions can streamline the process, making it easier for coffee importers to meet new regulatory requirements.
Our B.E.S.T. objectives are aligned with the needs of importers of commodities. We aim to bolster inter-government capabilities, demonstrating how the adoption of these innovations can trim expenditures. We want to enhance the level of assurance provided to all stakeholders, solve pressing problems for commercial entities, and target new and existing high-cost requirements causing friction.
As the trade landscape evolves, so too must our strategies. Coffee importers, potentially next in line for the sustainable certification requirement, should view this as the impetus for innovation.
TETA is here to lead the charge, offering a suite of solutions that not only meet the challenges of today but also pave the way for a more sustainable, efficient, and trustworthy trade future. Together, we can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth and leadership in sustainable trade. And then we can all enjoy our morning coffees with a clearer conscience.