Empowering Change: Introducing Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD) for Sustainable Coffee Supply Chains in Sumatra

In the lush coffee-growing regions of Sumatra, Indonesia, Fairtrade NAPP organized an Introductory Workshop on Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence (HREDD), bringing together members of local cooperatives to address the pressing need for sustainability and compliance in global trade. This workshop, backed by key donors committed to ethical trade, provided a platform for participants to deepen their understanding of HREDD principles and their alignment with emerging EU regulations such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDD).

The workshop was a dynamic and engaging experience. Participants were introduced to HREDD concepts through group discussions, interactive presentations, and games that made complex regulations easier to grasp. Real-world examples from their supply chains were shared, fostering practical connections between theory and implementation. Videos, case studies, and illustrations further enriched the learning process, with translations provided to ensure accessibility for all attendees.

These activities encouraged participants to critically assess their supply chains and identify operational changes needed to comply with EUDR and CSDD. Cooperatives left with actionable insights on due diligence, traceability, and sustainability, empowering them to future-proof their operations in an increasingly regulated market.

The immediate impact of the workshop was the participants’ enhanced understanding of HREDD and its implications for their supply chains. For Indonesian coffee producers, aligning with EU regulations is not just a compliance requirement but a business imperative to maintain access to high-value European markets. The workshop emphasized the risks of non-compliance, such as potential market exclusion, while highlighting the opportunities for growth through sustainable practices.

For many participants, the workshop was a transformative experience.

Riza Dianil Iman, a 23-year-old member of the Arisarina Cooperative, shared, “This workshop opened my eyes to how businesses should be responsible, not just profit-driven. As a new member, this was a powerful introduction to ethical trade.”

Abdul Azis, a seasoned member of KSU Surya Abadi Kayumas, noted, “HREDD is no longer an option but a necessity. With regulations tightening in Europe, we must adapt to stay competitive.”

These testimonials reflect the workshop’s success in fostering a mindset shift among cooperative members.

The workshop was just the beginning of a long-term journey. Fairtrade NAPP is committed to supporting these cooperatives through regular follow-ups, including creating a dedicated WhatsApp group to share updates, materials, and insights on EU regulations. Future workshops will delve deeper into capacity building, with planned training sessions on GIS mapping, satellite monitoring, and stakeholder engagement.

While the challenges of adapting to complex regulations, EUDR, and CSDD are significant, the opportunities for Indonesian cooperatives are equally promising. Compliance ensures access to premium markets and strengthens supply chain transparency, positioning cooperatives as global leaders in sustainable coffee production. Additionally, these efforts align with Fairtrade NAPP’s broader mission of fostering resilient and equitable communities.

The HREDD workshop in Sumatra marked a critical step in transforming Indonesia’s coffee sector. By bridging local practices with global sustainability standards, Fairtrade NAPP and its donors are paving the way for a future where ethical trade is the norm, not the exception.

This program stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and education in creating lasting, meaningful change. With continued donor support and active engagement from cooperatives, Indonesia’s coffee supply chains are poised to thrive in a competitive, sustainability-focused global market.