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Why Work with the Rainforest Alliance?The Rainforest Alliance has more than 20 years of experience helping companies and organizations of all sizes and types adopt sustainable practices. Since our inception, we have worked in more than 60 countries to develop and implement environmental and social standards for the sustainable management of natural resources.
We helped establish the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the concept of global third-party forestry certification and then led similar efforts in the agricultural field, developing a model for the certification of sustainably managed farms that grow a variety of crops, such as bananas, coffee, tea, cocoa and flowers. We are a leader in setting global criteria for responsible tourism operations, and our efforts to verify and market carbon-offset initiatives are combating global warming while offering a source of livelihood to those who conserve their forestland and keep their trees standing. With more than 1,600 partners worldwide, the Rainforest Alliance has led the way in building sustainable supply chains and purchasing policies. Our knowledgeable staff members are experts in ecology, policy, economics, marketing and sociology. We can link buyers and sellers along the entire forest-product supply chain, foster competitive community enterprises, monitor and document the impacts of this work and communicate the results to a diverse range of stakeholders. Our hands-on, practical approach to conservation is an asset to any company willing to make positive changes in the ways that it operates. What Sets the Rainforest Alliance Apart? Global Knowledge: With experience working in all forest types -- tropical, temperate and boreal -- and more than 60 countries, our knowledge of ecosystems and national and international markets allows us to link suppliers and buyers all over the world. Local Expertise: Through our global network of field offices and alliances -- including long-standing partnerships with NGOs and research institutions -- we have an intimate understanding of local and regional issues. We can provide answers to your questions, regardless of where your sourcing needs take you. Adaptability: From Fortune 500 companies to indigenous cooperatives and nonprofits, we have worked with all sizes and kinds of enterprises and can use this knowledge to your benefit. Individualized Attention: SmartSource clients receive personal, customized attention and support from our team of experts, including tailored training for you and your suppliers to help you make any needed improvements.
Transparency & Credibility: Our approach to sustainability is transparent, and through your collaboration with a reputable, independent nonprofit organization like the Rainforest Alliance, you communicate the credibility of your company's efforts. Risk Assessment: We can help you determine if your forest products have been harvested legally or if they were illegally sourced or traded. Our analysis of your supply chain includes information and updates on "high visibility" wood species and countries of origin, particularly those identified by environmental groups for activist campaigns. Certification Expertise: We can introduce you and your suppliers to the requirements and procedures for achieving FSC certification and the Rainforest Alliance Certified™ seal, and help your suppliers move toward certification within the shortest possible time frame. New Sourcing Options: We offer analysis of, and access to, potential new suppliers and can expand your sourcing network by facilitating your company's communication with these companies. For example, the Rainforest Alliance currently manages more than 40 percent of the global portfolio of FSC-certified operations. Communications Support: We can help you develop a variety of tools to get the word out about your sustainable sourcing policy, including press releases, public promotions and other communications materials. If you show verifiable progress toward your goals, we will support your efforts with our own communications outreach on your behalf. Networking Opportunities: You'll be able to participate in invitation-only Rainforest Alliance workshops and training sessions with like-minded enterprises. By offering access to those who may have already gone through the same process, these networking opportunities offer you a chance to learn from the experiences of others.
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