Sustainable Sugarcane Cultivation

The global spotlight has long been on sugar—a commodity both feared and craved, yet often misunderstood. Sucrose, or table sugar, is its most recognized form. In the lives of European citizens, sugar holds significant importance, prompting reflection on the sustainability of cane sugar production in light of the EU's heightened commitment to sustainability standards. European sugar refiners, reliant on international trade for the raw material in cane sugar refining, must explore environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable production methods through global trade.

Ideal climatic conditions for cane sugar production are concentrated in Australia and Brazil, the leading producers of Bonsucro certified sustainable sugar products. Bonsucro, an international non-profit governance group, promotes sustainable cane sugar by certifying farmers and mills based on principles encompassing human rights, labor standards, and efficient production and processing. The European cane sugar refinery industry extends its commitment beyond certification, emphasizing adherence to high principles, fair trade, and decent work values in cane sugar production.

Addressing historical concerns about the environmental impact of sugarcane, recent studies dispel fears of deforestation in countries like Brazil, emphasizing land change from pasture rather than increased deforestation. Sugarcane cultivation's impact on water supply varies, with rain-fed systems prevailing in Australia and efforts to develop sustainable alternatives in irrigated areas like Brazil. Producers actively participate in programs like Smartcane Best Management Practice to reduce pesticide use and minimize contamination risks.

Mechanization efforts in sugarcane production, particularly in Brazil and Australia, mitigate environmental concerns, including straw burning during harvesting. The industry's contribution to sustainable biofuel, specifically sugarcane ethanol with the world's lowest carbon footprint, aligns with global efforts toward cleaner energy and industry decarbonization.

As sustainability values dominate Europe's strategies, the EU Green Deal shapes the principles of the European industry, including sugarcane refining. European refiners strive to integrate sustainability principles into their growth and profit structures, seeking the most sustainable raw cane sugar through free trade agreements like Mercosur and the EU's agreement with Australia. For a comprehensive exploration of the European cane sugar refining industry's commitment to environmental standards and sustainable cultivation, refer to ESRA's full article on sustainability here.