- Aim/Focus
- Standard organisation
- Good to know
Below is a list of documents and policies that were used in the collection of the scheme data:
- Cotton made in Africa Standard - Principles, Criteria and Indicators - Volume 4 - CmiA-Standard Setting and Revision Procedure - CmiA Assurance Manual (V1) - CmiA Appeals Procedure (V1) & CmiA Appeals Committee Guidelines - CmiA Code of Conduct - CmiA Chain of Custody Guidelines - CmiA Claims Framework - CmiA Theory of Change
Credibility 78%
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Availability of Scheme Structure
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Independence of Scheme Owner from Certificate Holder
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Availability of Standard
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Public Consultation of Standard
From March 2025, the required level of ambition for this minimum criterion will increase from 'basic' to 'advanced'.
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Standard Review
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Scheme Legal Status
-
Sources of Finance
-
Standard-Setting Process
-
Assessment Methodology
-
Sustainability Goals and Objectives of the Scheme
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Key Issues
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Stakeholder Feedback
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Consistent Interpretation
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Scheme Accessibility
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Assurance Provider Complaints and Appeals Mechanism
From March 2025, the required level of ambition for this minimum criterion will increase from 'basic' to 'advanced'.
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Assessment Reports Availability
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Scope and Duration of Certificate / License
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Certified or Verified Enterprise / Labelled Product List
From March 2025, the required level of ambition for this minimum criterion will increase from 'basic' to 'advanced'.
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Accredited/ Approved Assurance Providers
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Independent Conformity Assessment
From March 2025, the required level of ambition for this minimum criterion will increase from 'basic' to 'advanced'.
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Consistent Decision-Making on Conformity
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Procedure on Non-Conformities
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Claims and Labelling Policy
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Scheme Management
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Governance
-
Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure publicly available, including composition of governance bodies?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (0 points)
- Yes publicly (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Is the scheme owner a legal entity, or an organization that is a partnership of legal entities, or a government or inter-governmental agency?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Is there a mechanism for stakeholders to participate in scheme development and decision-making?
Possible answers
- Yes available publicly (2 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Do the voting procedures of the top decision-making body ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests, where no single interest predominates?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner make quantitative information on the income sources or financing structure of the scheme available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have an internal quality management system available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Is the scheme owner economically independent from the certificate holder?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have a strategy for meeting its sustainability-oriented goals and objectives?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner make its organisational structure publicly available, including composition of governance bodies?
-
Impact
-
Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner use the results of monitoring and evaluation for learning and improvements to its programme?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner make sustainability results from M&E available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have a system in place for measuring its impacts and progress towards its sustainability goals?
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Complaints Mechanism
-
Does the scheme owner have a publicly available and easily accessible complaints mechanism?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have a publicly available and easily accessible complaints mechanism?
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Supporting Strategies
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Does the scheme implement strategies or activities to support improved performance of participating enterprises, e.g. capacity building, access to finance?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme implement strategies or activities to support improved performance of participating enterprises, e.g. capacity building, access to finance?
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Governance
-
Standard-Setting
-
Is the standard made publicly available free of charge?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (0 points)
- Yes publicly (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Has a set of key sustainability issues in the sector where the scheme operates or product lifecycle been defined in the standard-setting process?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Is the standard-setting procedure or a summary of the process for how stakeholders can engage in standard-setting made publicly available?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (0 points)
- Yes publicly (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Can stakeholders participate in the standard-setting process?
Possible answers
- Members only (1 point)
- Invitation only (1 point)
- All stakeholders (2 points)
-
Are stakeholders who are directly affected by the standard provided opportunities to participate in standard setting?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Are draft standards field tested / piloted for relevance and auditability through the development and revision processes?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner provide information on how the input received from consultations has been included in the final version of the standard?
Possible answers
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- No (0 points)
-
Do the voting procedures of the decision-making body responsible for standard setting ensure that there is a balanced representation of stakeholder interests?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Is the standard reviewed and, if necessary, revised at least every 5 years?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme ensure that guidance is in place to support consistent interpretation of the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Are there procedures and guidance for application or interpretation of the standard to regional contexts?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is the standard made publicly available free of charge?
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Assurance
-
Assurance System
-
Is there a publicly available documented assessment methodology for assurance providers to assess conformity with the standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (0 points)
- Yes publicly available (1 point)
-
Is application (to get certified/verified) open to all potential applicants within the scope of the scheme?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner provide information on assessment fees or require this of assurance providers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have an easily accessible complaints and appeals mechanism?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner make, or require assurance providers to make a summary of certification/verification reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) available?
Possible answers
- No (no reports) (0 points)
- No (confidential) (1 point)
- Yes (on request) (2 points)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
-
Does the certificate or license define the scope of assurance and duration for which it is valid?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner maintain or require assurance providers to maintain a publicly accessible list of certified or verified enterprises, or a list of verified products/product groups, or a list of members (in case of membership-based initiatives)?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Yes incl. scope of certificate or license (2 points)
-
Does the scheme owner maintain a current and publicly available list of all accredit-ed/approved/suspended assurance providers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (0 points)
- Yes (publicly) (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner review the effectiveness of their assurance system on a periodic basis?
Possible answers
- Annual (1 point)
- Every 3 years (1 point)
- Every 5 years (1 point)
- Ad hoc (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that clients and other affected stakeholders are notified of changes to the assurance requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme require performance improvements over time to maintain certification?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented assessment methodology for assurance providers that are assessing chain of custody?
Possible answers
- yes publicly available (2 points)
- yes available on request (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to report to them on complaints received and, on the actions, taken to resolve the issue?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner maintain an information management system?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Has the scheme specified equivalence requirements for any other scheme assurance results it recognises?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is there a publicly available documented assessment methodology for assurance providers to assess conformity with the standard?
-
Conformity Assessment
-
Conformity Assessment Process
-
Does the scheme require a third-party conformity assessment of all clients for compliance with its standard?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (2 points)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner define requirements for decision-making to ensure that assurance providers use consistent procedures for determining the conformity of clients or laboratory testing results with the standard?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to have a procedure in place for how clients are required to address non-conformities, including when a certificate or license is suspended or revoked?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme require a third-party conformity assessment of all clients for compliance with its standard?
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Sustainability Audits
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented oversight approach that requires assurance providers to be accredited or compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025 (for laboratories) requirements, or alternatively to be compliant with the relevant ISEAL Assurance Code requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that clients are audited on a regular, recurring basis?
Possible answers
- 1 year or less (1 point)
- 1-2 years (1 point)
- 2-3 years (1 point)
- 4-5 years (1 point)
- 5 years or more (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is the frequency or intensity of an audit or oversight assessment based on a risk assessment of the client or assurance provider?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner specify the required intensity for each type of audit and the activities that must be carried out by assurance providers for each of its standards?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner allow or require assurance providers to do unannounced audits?
Possible answers
- Allowed (1 point)
- Required (2 points)
- Not allowed (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are auditors and assessors required to seek external stakeholder input during the audit and oversight assessment process?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to follow a consistent report format?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers and oversight bodies use competent and impartial personnel (other than auditor/assessor/ team) to make decisions on compliance?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented oversight approach that requires assurance providers to be accredited or compliant with ISO/IEC 17065, ISO/IEC 17021, ISO/IEC 17020, ISO/IEC 17025 (for laboratories) requirements, or alternatively to be compliant with the relevant ISEAL Assurance Code requirements?
-
Group Certification
-
Is the group required to have a shared management system with clear responsibilities for implementation of the system?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have a mechanism that prescribes and justifies how all sites within a group certification will be audited over time?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is there a sample size formula and sampling approach to determine the number of group members that is externally verified and how the sample is chosen?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Yes based on risk assessment (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Do the requirements on group certification/verification define the conditions under which a group member shall be suspended or removed from a group?
Possible answers
- Member suspended from certification (1 point)
- Member removed from a group (1 point)
- Group suspension (1 point)
- No repercussion (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is the group required to have a shared management system with clear responsibilities for implementation of the system?
-
Chain of Custody
-
Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require all enterprises that are physically handling the certified product to undergo a CoC audit if the product can be destined for retail sale as a certified, labelled product?
-
Laboratory Testing
-
In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are there rules on random sampling and testing for the conformity monitoring?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is there a procedure to deal with non-conforming products manufactured by a client / licensee?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
In the documented assessment methodology, are test methods either referred to or included?
-
Conformity Assessment Process
-
Assessor/ Auditor Competencies
-
Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner require that assurance provider auditors successfully complete auditor training on a standard that is relevant to the scheme and that is based on ISO 19011, or equivalent?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that assurance and oversight providers implement a programme to monitor and ensure the continued competence and good performance of assessors and auditors?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner carry out or require assurance providers to carry out calibration activities to ensure that assessors /auditors are aligned?
Possible answers
- Annually (2 points)
- Ad Hoc (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that assurance providers have a Code of Conduct, or equivalent, and supporting procedures to guide behaviour and actions of assurance providers' personnel and to address misconduct
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner assess potential risks to auditor / assessor impartiality and where warranted, do they require assurance providers and oversight bodies to implement practices to mitigate these risks?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner define the qualifications, competency, the required minimum industry audit experience and training requirements for assurance / oversight assessors?
-
Accreditation / Oversight
-
Does the scheme require an oversight mechanism and is it documented?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Is oversight conducted by a third party independent of the scheme owner and assurance providers?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme define the nature and intensity of oversight activities on assurance providers?
Possible answers
- <1 year (2 points)
- 1 year (2 points)
- 2-3 years (2 points)
- 4-5 years (1 point)
- >5 years (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
- None (0 points)
-
Does the intensity of oversight activities take account of risk factors associated with the assurance providers and their personnel?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner clearly define the application and selection process for assurance providers?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner assess scheme-specific competence when accepting assurance providers that are accredited to other relevant standards (proxy accreditation)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Yes assess scheme-specific competence (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme have or require oversight providers to have documented and accessible complaints and appeals mechanisms?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner define or request that oversight providers define how assurance providers have to address non-conformities raised through oversight?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that summaries of oversight reports (with personal and commercially sensitive information removed) are made publicly available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (on request) (1 point)
- Yes publicly (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that on-site assessments of assurance providers are included in the oversight cycle?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require that oversight includes reviews of assurance provider performance in the field?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme require an oversight mechanism and is it documented?
-
Assurance System
-
Claims & Traceability
-
Traceability
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements that apply to the full supply chain?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes available on request (1 point)
- Yes publicly available (2 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are there any CoC requirements for non-certified material, in case mixing of certified with uncertified inputs is allowed?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require assurance providers to verify that all enterprises within the chain maintain accurate and accessible records that allow any certified product or batch of products to be traceable from the point of sale to the buyer?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are companies required to keep CoC records for at least the term of certificate validity?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme have a traceability system that enables checking of product flow between links of the supply chain?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner have a documented Chain of Custody standard or other traceability requirements that apply to the full supply chain?
-
Claims & Labelling
-
Does the scheme owner have documented requirements for the use of its symbols, logos and/or claims related to its scheme and make them publicly available?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
-
Do claims requirements specify the types of claims that can be made for different types of CoC models, where the scheme owner allows for more than one model?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Are claims and label users required to use unique license numbers or other tracking mechanisms?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme owner require surveillance of the accurate use of claims and labels in the market, including a complaints mechanism to report misuse?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Is the label accompanied by an explanatory text claim or a link to further information?
Possible answers
- Yes (1 point)
- No (0 points)
- Not applicable (0 points)
-
Does the scheme have a procedure that defines specific consequences of misuse of claims and do they also require this of their assurance providers?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- yes (1 point)
-
Does the scheme owner have documented requirements for the use of its symbols, logos and/or claims related to its scheme and make them publicly available?
-
Traceability
Environment 28%
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Chemicals Storage and Labelling
-
Hazardous Chemicals
-
Synthetic Pesticides
-
Synthetic Fertilizer
-
Prevention of soil degradation
-
Soil Fertility
-
Habitat/Ecosystem Conversion
-
Protection of areas worth preserving
-
Chemicals
-
Chemical Use
-
Does the standard include criteria on chemical use?
Possible answers
- Basic: Document use of all chemicals (1 point)
- Advanced: Increase efficiency/reduce chemical use (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
3.4.1(a) The Managing Entity has a system in place to accurately collect and maintain the following information on CmiA-contracted farmers and farmer groups: • Name • Location • Gender • Age • Area under cotton cultivation • Inputs provided (type and amount) [this includes records of chemicals used] • (Input) pre-finance amount and repayment • Seed cotton at market • Training participation The data are updated annually. PRINCIPLE 9: CmiA Managing Entities minimise the adverse effects of crop-protection practices. Adoption of integrated production and pest management (IPPM), including and emphasising pest control techniques other than pesticide application, thereby leading to a reduction in the quantity of pesticide used. CRITERION 9.2 The Managing Entity only uses pesticides that are: (1) nationally registered and approved for use in cotton cultivation; and (2) labelled according to national standards in at least one of the national languages or an applicable official regional language.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 3.4 The Managing Entity operates a datamanagement system. PRINCIPLE 9: CmiA Managing Entities minimise the adverse effects of crop-protection practices.
-
Does the standard include criteria on hazardous chemicals, as referenced by (1) Stockholm convention, (2) WHO class 1A and B, (3) Rotterdam convention?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
9.3.1 The Managing Entity only purchases, distributes, and uses pesticides that are not banned from use for the cultivation of CmiA cotton. Substances falling under the following categories are banned under CmiA: • Stockholm Convention, Annexes A and B • Rotterdam Convention, Annex III • Montreal Protocol, Annexes • Active ingredients categorised as WHO Class Ia (extremely hazardous) or Class Ib (highly hazardous), respectively listed in categories 1 and 2 of GHS For organic production, the regulations relevant for the obtained organic certificate apply.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.3
-
Does the standard include criteria on synthetic pesticides?
Possible answers
- Basic: Restrict use of synthetic pesticides (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use of synthetic pesticides (2 points)
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on synthetic fertilizers?
Possible answers
- Basic: Restrict use of synthetic fertilizers based on the plant's and soil's needs (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use of synthetic fertilizers (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 8.3 Given the very low fertiliser application rates across sub-Saharan Africa, CmiA does not generally limit the amount of fertiliser used. Instead, the focus is on reconciling the Managing Entity’s policies on fertiliser utilisation with regional soil conditions, national scientific recommendations, and economic thresholds. This also includes training in the use of locally available, natural fertilisers such as compost or manure. Since shallow or highly weathered soils and ineffective or absent soil conservation techniques are major risk factors for net losses of nitrogen, techniques to maintain and improve soil structures contribute greatly to improved nitrogen fixation.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 8.3
-
Does the standard include criteria on chemical use?
-
Handling of Chemicals
-
Does the standard include criteria on storage and labelling of chemicals?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
9.9.1 Dedicated (organic) pesticide storage areas of the Managing Entity must fully comply with relevant legislation. 9.9.2 Central (organic) pesticides storage facilities have: a sound roof and impermeable floors; shelves with non-absorbent and fire-resistant material; a system to retain spillage; clear, permanent warning signs close to access doors; visible safety warnings, explanations of pictograms, symptoms of intoxication, and first-aid information for each product stored; a visible emergency procedure; and an eye-washing area.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.9
-
Does the standard include criteria on selective and targeted application of chemicals?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 9.1 The Managing Entity adopts an integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan. Based on the results of the monitoring, it is decided whether and when to use which pest management inputs. Sustainable biological, physical, and other non-chemical methods must be given priority over chemical methods if they provide satisfactory pest control. Pesticides should only be applied as a last resort when there are no adequate non-chemical alternatives and the use of pesticides is economically justified. The pesticides applied shall be as specific as possible to the target and shall have the least side effects on human health, non-target organisms, and the environment, and their use should be kept at minimum levels, e.g. through partial applications
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on training on chemicals handling and exposure?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
9.7.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in: (a) the proper preparation of spray formulations for effective use; (b) safe spraying techniques; (c) maintaining appropriate equipment for (organic) pesticide application; and (d) considering weather conditions when scheduling spraying.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.7
-
Does the standard include criteria on training on chemicals handling and exposure?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on storage and labelling of chemicals?
-
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
-
Does the standard include criteria on the provision of training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
9.1.3 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in threshold spraying and in scouting for key pest and beneficiary insects.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on biological control to prevent or suppress harmful organisms?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
-
Does the standard include criteria on regularly monitoring harmful organisms by observations in the field or warning, forecasting and early diagnosis systems (e.g. traps)
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
9.1.1 The Managing Entity has established a locally adapted and time-bound integrated production and pest management (IPPM) plan that identifies the appropriate specific practices for implementing the five IPPM components: (1) Growing healthy crops (2) Preventing the build-up of pest populations and the spread of disease (3) Preserving and enhancing populations of beneficial insects (4) Conducting regular field observations of crop health and of key pest and beneficial insects (5) Managing resistance 9.1.3 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in threshold spraying and in scouting for key pest and beneficiary insects.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on the principle to use pesticides as last resort only?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 9.1 Pesticides should only be applied as a last resort when there are no adequate non-chemical alternatives and the use of pesticides is economically justified. 9.1.3 The Managing Entity trains CmiA-contracted farmers in threshold spraying and in scouting for key pest and beneficiary insects. 9.1.4 The Managing Entity actively discourages CmiA-contracted farmers from calendar or random spraying.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on the provision of training on Integrated Pest Management (IPM)?
-
Chemical Use
-
Biodiversity & Ecosystems
-
Ecosystem Values & Functions
-
Does the standard include criteria on safeguards for the conversion of land or forests / the destruction of ecosystems for production?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Land conversion is prohibited (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas 7.2.3 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity ensures that CmiA-contracted farmers: • have the right to use the land (ideally holding land tenure); • maintain a ten-metre buffer zone of perennial vegetation with open water (river, stream, ditch, canal, pond, or lake); • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for officially designated protected areas; and • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for intact forest landscapes.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.2
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Does the standard include criteria on safeguards against fragmentation of good quality ecosystems/habitats?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
"Cutting of primary forest or destruction of other forms of national resources which are designated andprotected by national law or international legislation (currently valid) in order to cultivate cotton"
Referenzdokumente:
Criteria Matrix, Version 3, 1.1.2014, Exclusion Criteria No 7
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Does the standard include criteria on maintaining or protecting rare, threatened or endangered ecosystems?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.2
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Does the standard include criteria on ecosystem protection through spatial management (conservation areas, 'set aside' or buffer zones)?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
-
Does the standard include criteria on natural wetlands and/or watercourses affected by production?
Possible answers
- Basic: Identify Wetlands and/or Watercourses (1 point)
- Advanced: Maintan and Restore Wetlands and/or Watercourses (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.2
-
Does the standard include criteria on safeguards for the conversion of land or forests / the destruction of ecosystems for production?
-
Biodiversity and species values
-
Does the standard include criteria on rare, threatened or endangered species?
Possible answers
- Basic: Protect species - species list below IUCN red-list (1 point)
- Advanced: Protect species - based on IUCN red list or beyond (2 points)
-
Does the standard include criteria on the priority of native species?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on the use of alien invasive species?
Possible answers
- Basic: Restrict introduction of invasive species (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit introduction of invasive species (2 points)
-
Does the standard include criteria on the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)?
Possible answers
- Basic: Allow use with adequate controls to prohibit contamination (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit use (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
8.1.1 The Managing Entity must provide GMO-free cotton seeds. In countries where national legislation allows the cultivation of genetically modified cotton, the Managing Entity can guarantee that CmiA-contracted farmers do not receive any GMO seeds and that clear segregation between GMO and non-GMO cotton is maintained, e.g. in the case of toll ginning.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 8.1
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Does the standard include criteria on illegal activities such as hunting, fishing, trapping, collection of NTFP's (non-timber forest products) etc.?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor activities (1 point)
- Advanced: Control and regulate activities (2 points)
-
Does the standard include criteria on the application of fire or explosives for the clearing of land (e.g. slash & burn)?
Possible answers
- Basic: Control application of fire or explosives (1 point)
- Advanced: Prohibit application of fire or explosives (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
7.5.3 The use of fire for preparing land, replanting, or destroying crop residues is avoided, except in situations where national law requires otherwise.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.5
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Does the standard include criteria on rare, threatened or endangered species?
-
Ecosystem Values & Functions
-
Water
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Water Use
-
Does the standard include criteria on impacts on the water levels of surface and/or ground water?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CmiA does not allow for artifical irrigation, therefore this criterion is automatically covered
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on the quality of surface and/or ground water?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
8.2.3 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers to consider risks to water quality when managing and applying (organic) pesticides and nutrients (cf. criteria 9.8 and 8.3). 8.2.4 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers taking risks to water quality into account when managing and applying (organic) pesticides and nutrients. CRITERION 9.8 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiAcontracted farmers apply pesticides without contaminating bodies of water. 9.8.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in: (a) preventing water contamination when using (organic) pesticides; and (b) maintaining buffer zones around seasonal and permanent bodies of water. 9.8.2 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who apply (organic) pesticides in a way that minimises the risk of negatively influencing water quality (cf. criterion 8.2).
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 8.2 CRITERION 9.8
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Does the standard include criteria on water consumption in the production phase?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor volumes of water consumption over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Monitor water volumes & increase efficiency (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on reusing/recycling or harvesting water?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on quality of input water (being used for production)?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor quality of input water over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Ensure appropriate quality of input water (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
-
Does the standard include criteria on impacts on the water levels of surface and/or ground water?
-
Wastewater
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater quality and wastewater treatment?
Possible answers
- Basic: Treat wastewater (1 point)
- Advanced: Treat wastewater with parameters defined to ensure appropriate quality of wastewater (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
9.8.1 The Managing Entity regularly trains CmiA-contracted farmers in: (a) preventing water contamination when using (organic) pesticides; and (b) maintaining buffer zones around seasonal and permanent bodies of water. 9.8.2 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who apply (organic) pesticides in a way that minimises the risk of negatively influencing water quality (cf. criterion
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 9.8 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiAcontracted farmers apply pesticides without contaminating bodies of water.
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater volumes (per unit of production)?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on wastewater quality and wastewater treatment?
-
Water Use
-
Waste & Air Pollution
-
Waste Management
-
Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Reduction of volumes of waste (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on toxicity of waste?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Reduce and/or treat toxic waste (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on re-using or recycling waste on-site?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
The Managing Entity collects and separates waste from the ginnery according to local requirements. Waste must be properly disposed of in municipal garbage collection systems where available. 7.1.5The Managing Entity has a waste management plan that includes strategies in waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and disposal alternatives. The Managing Entity identifies the main types of waste, ways to reduce and reuse waste materials if applicable, and how to dispose of them in the best available way. The Managing Entity develops measures for waste reduction and documents their implementation and impact.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1
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Does the standard include criteria on waste management in the production phase?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 7.1 The Managing Entity responsibly manages and reduces its environmental impact. Intent The Managing Entity has identified the main negative environmental impacts at both the field and ginnery levels and implements measures to mitigate them. This includes but is not limited to noise, dust, water use, wastewater, waste, and energy consumption, as applicable. 7.1.5 The Managing Entity has a waste management plan that includes strategies in waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and disposal alternatives. The Managing Entity identifies the main types of waste, ways to reduce and reuse waste materials if applicable, and how to dispose of them in the best available way. The Managing Entity develops measures for waste reduction and documents their implementation and impact.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1
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Does the standard include criteria on waste segregation?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on safe disposal of hazardous waste?
Possible answers
- Basic: Reduce and/or treat toxic waste (1 point)
- Advanced (0 points)
Excerpt from standard:
7.1.4(a) The environmental management plan incorporates a monitoring protocol to track the effectiveness of the mitigation measures through a set of indicators (e.g. waste or fuel consumption). 7.1.4(b) The environmental management plan for the ginnery incorporates a monitoring protocol to track the effectiveness of the mitigation measures through a set of indicators (e.g. waste or energy consumption). 7.1.5 The Managing Entity has a waste management plan that includes strategies in waste reduction, recycling, reuse, and disposal alternatives. The Managing Entity identifies the main types of waste, ways to reduce and reuse waste materials if applicable, and how to dispose of them in the best available way. The Managing Entity develops measures for waste reduction and documents their implementation and impact. CRITERION 9.11 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiAcontracted farmers dispose of empty pesticide containers safely.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1 CRITERION 9.11
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Does the standard include criteria on uncontrolled on-site waste burning?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Prohibit waste burning (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
7.5.3 The use of fire for preparing land, replanting, or destroying crop residues is avoided, except in situations where national law requires otherwise.
Referenzdokumente:
CmiA vol.3.1 - Farm Level Criteria No. 4d
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Does the standard include criteria on uncontrolled waste landfilling?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Prohibit waste landfilling (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
"Green: The Managing Entity demonstrates that the gins which carry out CmiA cottonginning have developed and implemented appropriatemeasures andpractices, which enable the gin to identify the main environmental impacts ofthe operation. The gin operation has activities planned to remediateundesireable environmental impacts incl. potentialinvestment requirements.Legal requirements and requirements embedded in theoperating licence areobserved and adhered to."
Referenzdokumente:
Criteria Matrix, Version 3, 1.1.2014, CmiA Ginnery Criteria 6 Sustainability Criteria
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Does the standard include criteria on handling or disposal of waste by third parties?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Keep records on third party contractors (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on volumes of waste?
-
Air pollution (excl. GHG) & Emission
-
Does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor emissions over time (for textiles at least in textile finishing) (1 point)
- Advanced: End-of-pipe technology (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
7.1.2(b) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the ginnery level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Air emissions • Waste • Hazardous substances • Fuel and energy use • Noise • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, least every two years. 7.1.6 The Managing Entity applies appropriate emissions-control techniques for operations that generate air pollutants. Control techniques include ventilation, absorption, scrubbing, and noise and vibration reduction. The Managing Entity measures the emission reduction achieved through control techniques.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on air pollution?
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Waste Management
-
Environmental Management
-
Does the standard include a general criterion on compliance with all relevant local, regional and national environmental laws and regulations?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
7.2.1 An up-to-date overview map of the production areas and the location of the ginneries is available. The Managing Entity collaborates with national environmental authorities to identify and map out protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) within cotton-growing areas cultivated by contracted farmers. Such areas include: • Primary forest and other intact forest landscapes • Important bird areas (IBA) • UNESCO world heritage sites • Strict nature reserves (IUC Ia) • Wilderness areas (IUC Ib) • National parks (IUC II) • Natural monuments or features (IUC III) • Habitat/Species management areas (IUC IV) • Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) • Rivers and riparian buffer areas 7.2.2 Cotton is only produced on land that is classified as agricultural and/or approved for agricultural use under national legislation. Protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) are respected (cf. indicator 7.2.1). Guidance for Implementation: Refer to national legislation and governance for the management of natural protected areas and protection zones. It is recommended that external stakeholders are consulted, especially the institutes responsible for the management of protected areas
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.2
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Does the standard include criteria to ensure that relevant and up-to-date permits are held (such as water use rights or land use titles)?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
Excerpt from standard:
The Managing Entity has identified the main negative environmental impacts at both the field and ginnery levels and implements measures to mitigate them. This includes but is not limited to noise, dust, water use, wastewater, waste, and energy consumption, as applicable. 7.1.2(a) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the field level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Hazardous substances • Waste • Fuel use • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, at least every two years. CRITERION 8.2 The Managing Entity sustainably manages water resources and helps CmiA-contracted farmers adapt to changing rainfall patterns.
Referenzdokumente:
CmiA vol.3.1 - Ginnery Criteria No.6
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Does the standard include criteria on mitigating negative environmental impacts prior to production/operation?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on assessing the environmental risks and impacts of production/operations prior to any significant intensification or expansion of business operations/cultivation and infrastructure?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
7.1.2(a) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the field level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Hazardous substances • Waste • Fuel use • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, at least every two years.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on stakeholder engagement to achieve environmental targets?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include a general criterion on compliance with all relevant local, regional and national environmental laws and regulations?
-
Energy and Climate
-
Climate Change Mitigation
-
Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
Possible answers
- Basic: Monitor energy consumption over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Increase efficiency OR increase use of renewables (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
7.1.2(b) The Managing Entity conducts regular environmental risk assessments at the ginnery level. The assessment forms the basis for an environmental management plan, which defines measures to eliminate or mitigate the risks and impacts. The environmental assessment includes but is not limited to: • Air emissions • Waste • Hazardous substances • Fuel and energy use • Noise • Land use The environmental management plan is maintained and reviewed when necessary, least every two years. 7.1.7 The Managing Entity measures and monitors the energy consumption in its ginneries and develops a plan for energy reduction and recovery. Where appropriate, climate-smart energy sources are used. A system to measure achievements is in place (cf. indicator 7.1.4(b)).
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on (non-energy) greenhouse gas emissions?
Possible answers
- Basic: Measure/calculate and monitor GHG emissions over time (1 point)
- Advanced: Reduce GHG net emissions/GHG intensity (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
Excl.Crit.8: "Non-submission of input and production data in annual self-assessments as prescribed by AbTF."
Referenzdokumente:
"CmiA Exclusion Criterion 8, Self-Assessment Template (sheet on Inputs provided);Document Request List"
-
Does the standard include criteria on carbon sequestration?
Possible answers
- Basic: Estimate carbon sequestration (1 point)
- Advanced: Increase carbon sequestration (2 points)
-
Does the standard include criteria on high carbon landscapes (above and/or below ground carbon stocks)?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Protect high carbon landscapes (1 point)
-
Does the standard include criteria on energy consumption in the production phase?
-
Climate Change Adaptation
-
Does the standard include criteria on emergency response plans or strategies to climate related hazards?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on specific climate adaptation activities?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria on emergency response plans or strategies to climate related hazards?
-
Climate Change Mitigation
-
Soil
-
Soil Quality
-
Does the standard include criteria on soil erosion?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
8.3.5 CmiA-contracted farmers receive regular training in techniques for soil conservation, such as: • Soil regeneration through crop diversity or crop rotation with leguminous crops • Prevention of erosion • The effective use of fertilisers • The monitoring of soil structure, soil fertility, and nutrient status • Tillage methods for reducing negative effects on soil structure/compaction • The use of cover crops / intercropping • The use of organic matter / animal manure • The application of residue management / mulching
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 8.3
-
Does the standard include criteria on soil compaction?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on soil fertility?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Maintain / increase soil quality over time (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
"3a (green): ""Furthermore, training is conducted regularly and more than 50% of farmers apply one or more methods of soil and water conservation (e.g. conservation farming, production of compost, etc.).Training content needs to address the most promising agricultural practices showing quick wins and are easy to apply. Thus the farmers have a direct positive impact.""3b (green): ""There is sufficient evidence that crop rotation includes stand-alone plantings for legumes or intercropping with legumes.The Managing Entity can provide sufficient evidence that crop rotation is a common practice and sustainably applied."""
Referenzdokumente:
Criteria Matrix, Version 3, 1.1.2014, CmiA Farm Level Criteria: 3a (Soil and water conservation), 3b (Crop rotation)
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Does the standard include criteria on soil contamination?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on soil erosion?
-
Soil Conservation
-
Does the standard include criteria on crop rotation?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
8.3.6 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers using crop rotation (i.e. the practice of alternating the crops grown in a specific field in a regular sequence). Cotton is not grown in the same field several years in a row. 8.3.7 The percentage of CmiA-contracted farmers who include a leguminous crop in their crop rotation or who let the field in question lie fallow for one year.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 8.3
-
Does the standard include criteria on including cover crop in the crop rotation?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
-
Does the standard include criteria on organic fertilizer, incl. manure?
Possible answers
- Basic: Use organic fertilizer instead of synthetic fertilizer (1 point)
- Advanced: A maximum amount of organic fertilizer per hectare is defined (2 points)
-
Does the standard include criteria on crop rotation?
-
Soil Quality
Socio-Economic 69%
-
Freedom of Association
-
Collective Bargaining
-
Health and Safety in Agriculture
-
Forced Labour
-
Minimum Age/ ILO 138
-
Prohibition of the Worst Forms of Child Labour/ILO 182
-
Equal Remuneration / ILO 100
-
Non-Discrimination
-
Social & Cultural Rights and Community Engagement
-
Social and Cultural Rights
-
Local Economic Development
-
Does the standard include criteria relating to a preference to purchase local materials, goods, products and services?
Possible answers
-
Does the standard include criteria relating to hiring workers from local communities?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
-
Does the standard include criteria on investment in community development beyond the business' operations?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
.Farm Level Criterion 1. Social welfare programs (Green): The Managing Entity provides sufficient evidence to demonstrate that it is aware of social issues with regard to education and/or health within its farmers base, that it has identified its priorities and it is actively engaged in implementing one or more such donor or government supported social welfare programme. Furthermore, indicators are in place to measure its success and success is measured.
Referenzdokumente:
Criteria Matrix, 2014. Farm Level Criterion 1.
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Does the standard include criteria relating to a preference to purchase local materials, goods, products and services?
-
Minority and Indigenous Rights
-
Does the standard include criteria on the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
7.2.4 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity can document that CmiA-contracted farmers respected the rights of local communities and indigenous people (in line with ILO Convention 169 on the Rights of Indigenous People).
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 7.2
-
Does the standard include criteria on the rights of indigenous and tribal peoples?
-
Local Economic Development
-
Social and Cultural Rights
-
Labour Rights and Working Conditions
-
ILO Core Conventions
-
Does the standard include criteria on freedom of association and the right to organize as described in ILO 87?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.5.1 Employees and workers can freely establish and join workers’ organisations, both internal (such as workers’ representation) and external (such as trade unions) and take part in collective bargaining on working conditions. The Managing Entity: • respects the right of all employees and workers to form or join workers’ organisations; • respects the rights of workers’ organisations to draw up their own constitutions and rules, elect representatives, organise activities, and formulate programmes in full freedom; • respects the rights of workers’ organisation to bargain collectively in practice; • accepts that it has the duty to bargain in good faith with workers’ organisations; and • provides workers’ organisations with the information needed for meaningful negotiation in a timely manner.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.5
-
Does the standard include criteria on the right to collective bargaining, as laid down by ILO 98?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.5.6 In countries where a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is in place for the sector, the Managing Entity signs and adheres to this agreement. Collective bargaining at the company level may take place even if a sector-wide collective agreement exists; however, the company-level agreements may not provide lesser terms and conditions than the sector-wide agreements.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.5
-
Does the standard prohibit forced and compulsory labour as defined in ILO 29 and ILO 105?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.1.1(a) No forced, bonded, trafficked, or otherwise involuntary labour, including involuntary prison labour, is used or tolerated at the field level. 5.1.1(b) No forced, bonded, trafficked, or otherwise involuntary labour, including involuntary prison labour, is used or tolerated at the ginnery level.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.1
-
Does the standard include criteria on the prohibition of child labour as defined under ILO 138?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
6.1.1 The Managing Entity has a time-bound plan for the prevention of child labour at the field level in accordance with ILO conventions 138 and 182 and applicable national laws. 6.1.2(a) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. The policy also specifies under which circumstances and for which tasks children of CmiA-contracted farmers are allowed to help on the family farm. This policy is communicated to all CmiA-contracted farmers. 6.1.2(b) The Managing Entity establishes and implements a child labour policy that includes a clear statement against child labour. This policy is communicated to all employees and workers. It is also communicated to sub-contractors as a mandatory contractual component. The Managing Entity’s subcontractors must comply with the policy. 6.1.4 CmiA-contracted farmers do not employ children below the age of 15 (14 in certain specified countries) or under the age defined by local law, whichever is higher. 6.1.6 The Managing Entity does not employ workers directly or indirectly (through sub-contracting) below the age of 15 (14 in certain specified countries) or below the minimum age for employment defined by local law, whichever is higher. Robust age-verification mechanisms are part of the recruitment process to ensure compliance with the minimum age.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 6.1
-
Does the standard cover requirements on the pohibition of the worst forms of child labour as defined under ILO 182?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
6.1.1 The Managing Entity has a time-bound plan for the prevention of child labour at the field level in accordance with ILO conventions 138 and 182 and applicable national laws.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 6.1
-
Does the standard address the payment of equal wages as defined in ILO 100?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.9.4 The Managing Entity offers equal pay for equal work to all employees and workers— whether permanent, temporary, or migrant—without discrimination based on gender or any other factor. This includes equivalent benefits and employment conditions for equal work.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.9
-
Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination in the workplace, as defined in ILO 111?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.2.1 The Managing Entity does not tolerate any form of discrimination. This includes benefits or discrimination in terms of contracting, promotion, remuneration, training, or other activities on any basis, including gender, age, religion, race, colour, caste, ethnicity, nationality, social background, disability, political opinion, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, pregnancy, childbirth, marital status, disease, and membership in farmers’ unions or farmers’ representative bodies.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.2
-
Does the standard include criteria on freedom of association and the right to organize as described in ILO 87?
-
Labour Rights
-
Voluntary Labour
-
Does the standard prohibit the withholding of workers' documents?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Must prohibit the withholding of workers' documents (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.1 The Managing Entity guarantees free choice of employment and ensures that there is no forced or compulsory labour, which includes bonded or trafficked labour. 5.1.3 Employees and workers are not required to submit deposits or identity papers, nor are salaries, benefits, or property retained in order to force employees or workers to remain on the worksite. Furthermore, the Managing Entity does not impose debt on workers (e.g. through large pay advances or for food, equipment, or transportation fees) that is difficult or impossible to repay on low wages.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.1
-
Does the standard prohibit the withholding of workers' documents?
-
Child Labour
-
Does the standard require verification and documentation of age of (young) workers?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
3.4.1(a) The Managing Entity has a system in place to accurately collect and maintain the following information on CmiA-contracted farmers and farmer groups: • Name • Location • Gender • Age • Area under cotton cultivation • Inputs provided (type and amount) • (Input) pre-finance amount and repayment • Seed cotton at market • Training participation The data are updated annually. 3.4.1(b) The Managing Entity has a system in place to maintain adequate records of employment. This includes the following: • A personnel file for each employee and worker • Pay records • Records of hours worked • Workforce statistics • Union agreements • Policies • Health and safety • Labour providers 6.1.8 The Managing Entity conducts spot checks at CmiA farms to check the age of farm workers, especially in labour-intensive periods during the cotton season. Records of the checks are kept for at least two years.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 3.4
-
Does the standard include criteria on special treatment of young workers?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
No child or young worker shall carry heavy loads or work on steep slopes, on any high surface, or in high places. Night work for children or young workers is also prohibited. Children or young workers shall always be under the supervision of a responsible adult in order to ensure that the children or young adults understand how to do their tasks safely and practise safe work habits.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 6.1
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Does the standard require verification and documentation of age of (young) workers?
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Gender
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Does the standard include criteria on having policies and/ or processes in place that prevent discrimination of women and men in the workplace?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.2.1 The Managing Entity does not tolerate any form of discrimination. This includes benefits or discrimination in terms of contracting, promotion, remuneration, training, or other activities on any basis, including gender, age, religion, race, colour, caste, ethnicity, nationality, social background, disability, political opinion, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, pregnancy, childbirth, marital status, disease, and membership in farmers’ unions or farmers’ representative bodies.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.2
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Does the standard include criteria on the right to maternity leave (as defined in ILO 183)?
Possible answers
- Basic: Partial compliance (1 point)
- Advanced: Full compliance (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
5.9.7 Employees and workers receive maternity rights and benefits in accordance with national law and practice. The adherence to regulations needs to be documented. 5.9.8 Employees and workers can return to their job after maternity leave on the same terms and conditions and without discrimination, loss of seniority, or deduction of wages.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.9
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Does the standard include criteria on the non-discrimination of persons with disabilities?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.2 The Managing Entity implements a policy of non-discrimination and supports disadvantaged groups. 5.2.1 The Managing Entity does not tolerate any form of discrimination. This includes benefits or discrimination in terms of contracting, promotion, remuneration, training, or other activities on any basis, including gender, age, religion, race, colour, caste, ethnicity, nationality, social background, disability, political opinion, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, pregnancy, childbirth, marital status, disease, and membership in farmers’ unions or farmers’ representative bodies.
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Does the standard include criteria on having policies and/ or processes in place that prevent discrimination of women and men in the workplace?
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Wages and Benefits
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Does the standard require paying wages sufficient to meet basic needs of the worker and his or her family (living wage)?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
Referenzdokumente:
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Does the standard require paying legal minimum wages?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.9.1 The Managing Entity ensures that CmiA-contracted farmers with a cotton area above 20 hectares who hire workers are aware of: • the legally applicable minimum wages (e.g. the national or regional statutory minimum wage applicable to agriculture, a collectively agreed-upon wage, or the industry minimum); and • the rule of paying equal wages to workers who perform the same job without discrimination, whether based on gender or any other factor. 5.9.2 The Managing Entity must set wages for employees and workers according to any applicable legal or sectoral CBA regulations or to regional average wages or to official minimum wages for similar occupations, whichever is the highest, with the intention of continually increasing the wages. This applies equally to seasonal workers, casual workers, and/or workers who are paid per unit or result. Wages must be specified for all employee functions and employment terms, such as casual workers or piece-work.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.9
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Does the standard require compensating overtime?
Possible answers
- Basic: Yes (1 point)
- Advanced: Yes and overtime is paid at a rate of at least 125% of the regular income (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
5.10.2 The Managing Entity respects the following rules regarding overtime work: • It is voluntary • It does not exceed twelve hours per week • It does not extend over a period of more than three consecutive months • It is paid according to national law or collective bargaining agreement This applies to all employees and workers equally, including seasonal workers, casual workers, and workers who are paid per unit or result.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.10
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Does the standard require paid leave?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: Two out of three (casual/sick/annual leave) (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.11 The Managing Entity ensures good practices regarding social security, leave of absence, and sick leave. 5.11.1 The Managing Entity observes national legislation regarding: • social insurance contributions; • regular paid leave; and • temporary (paid) sick leave.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.11
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Does the standard require wages being paid in a timely, regular and convenient manner understood by all employees?
Possible answers
- Basic: Yes, some measures are in place (1 point)
- Advanced: Yes, all measures are in place (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
5.8.3 CmiA-contracted farmers are paid for their cotton in a timely manner, no later than 30 days after delivery to the point of sale. Payments are made in a form convenient for farmers. 5.9.5 Employees and workers are paid regularly (at least monthly) and on time through an appropriate method of payment. Payments are documented with a clear and understandable payslip containing all necessary information (including the time period, the gross and net wage and benefits, wage calculations for piece rates, and the amount of and reason for any deductions). Payments are made in national currency. Employees and workers must sign for payments received in cash. Payroll records are kept.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.8
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Does the standard require paying wages sufficient to meet basic needs of the worker and his or her family (living wage)?
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Working Hours
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Does the standard include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime?
Possible answers
- Basic: Requirement to include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime / voluntary extra work at least according to national law or industry specific minimum standards (1 point)
- Advanced: Standard requirements comply with ILO 1 requirements (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.10 The Managing Entity protects the rights and health of employees and workers through appropriate working hours. 5.10.1 The Managing Entity complies with applicable national and local legislation and industry standards and respects collective bargaining agreements regarding working hours and overtime regulations. At minimum, the Managing Entity complies with the following: • Regular working hours do not exceed eight hours per day and 48 hours per week • Employees and workers have at least one day off after six days of work • Employees and workers are not required to work unpaid overtime This applies to all employees and workers equally, including seasonal workers, casual workers, and workers who are paid per unit or result.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.10
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Does the standard include criteria on working hours, rest days or overtime?
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Scope of Labour Rights
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Do the employee rights and benefits defined in the standard apply to all types of work?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.9 The Managing Entity ensures that all employees and workers enjoy fair conditions of employment with regard to wages and contracts. 5.9.4 The Managing Entity offers equal pay for equal work to all employees and workers— whether permanent, temporary, or migrant—without discrimination based on gender or any other factor. This includes equivalent benefits and employment conditions for equal work.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.9
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Does the standard include criteria on the establishment of labour contracts compliant with national legal requirements?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (1 point)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
Excerpt from standard:
5.9.6 All employees and workers, including permanent, seasonal, casual, and migrant workers, receive legally binding written contracts of employment signed by both the worker and the employer prior to work commencing. A copy is handed over to the employee/ worker. The contracts include at least the following: • Job description • Working hours and rest periods • Wage • Form and frequency of payment • Overtime regulations • Social benefits • Entitlements and deductions • Annual paid leave, sick leave, and protection of the worker from loss of pay in the case of illness, disability, accident, or loss of life • A notice period for termination that is the same as the notice period for the employer In countries where written contracts are not required by law for casual workers, the Managing Entity ensures that workers understand and agree with the terms of the verbal contract.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.9
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Do the employee rights and benefits defined in the standard apply to all types of work?
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Other Labour Rights
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Does the standard include criteria on the formation of workers representations where freedom of association is restricted by law?
Possible answers
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Does the standard include criteria on the formation of workers representations where freedom of association is restricted by law?
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Voluntary Labour
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Health and Safety
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Does the standard prohibit harassment or abuse of workers?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.3 The Managing Entity ensures a respectful working environment without harassment or corporal punishment and with transparent disciplinary measures. 5.3.1(a) The Managing Entity does not directly or indirectly engage in, support, or tolerate the use of corporal punishment, sexual harassment, mental or physical coercion, or any other kind of verbal or physical abuse or harassment at the field level. 5.3.1(b) The Managing Entity does not directly or indirectly engage in, support, or tolerate the use of corporal punishment, sexual harassment, mental or physical coercion, or any other kind of verbal or physical abuse or harassment at the ginnery level.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.3
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Does the standard include criteria on workers' health and safety, as defined in ILO 184?
Possible answers
- Basic: Partial compliance with ILO 184 (1 point)
- Advanced: Full compliance with ILO 184 (2 points)
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.12 The Managing Entity provides a safe and healthy workplace Managing Entities respect the right of workers to healthy working conditions and must comply with national occupational health and safety regulations or, if domestic legislation is weak or poorly enforced, with international standards. Staff need to be provided with the information and training they need to perform their work safely and without risk to their health. This way, staff can gain their own understanding of the extent of the hazards and associated risks and will more easily adopt the measures necessary to manage and reduce these risks. It is the Managing Entity’s responsibility to prevent accidents and injuries by minimising, as far as reasonably practicable, risks inherent in the working environment through appropriate measures and adequate control. The buildings, workplaces, machinery, equipment, and processes under the Managing Entity’s control shall be safe and pose no risk to staff health. Where necessary, the Managing Entity shall provide adequate clothing and protective equipment. Workers and workers’ representatives shall be given appropriate training in occupational safety and health.
Referenzdokumente:
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Does the standard require training of workers on health and safety issues?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: systematic (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
5.12.5 The Managing Entity ensures that all employees and workers are trained in the basic requirements of occupational health and safety and relevant health protection immediately before starting any new job. Employees and workers that are engaged in potentially hazardous work are trained according to the tasks they carry out at least once a year. The training includes the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE). All employees and workers are made aware of their right to remove themselves from unsafe situations without seeking permission or being penalised for doing so. Regular refresher training takes place at least once a year. The Managing Entity keeps records of the training activities, indicating training topics, time, duration, and the names of attendees and trainers.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.12
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Does the standard require that workers have access to safe drinking water?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 5.15 The Managing Entity provides all employees and workers with clean drinking water, sanitation facilities, changing rooms, and areas for rest and food consumption. 5.15.1 All employees and workers have access to drinking water in sufficient quantity and close to the working area. The rest or food-consumption area has clearly labelled drinking-water facilities. The water quality is monitored, and monitoring results are documented.
Referenzdokumente:
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Does the standard require safe and appropriate housing for workers?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.15.3 All employees and workers have access to adequate rest areas, food-consumption areas, canteens, and/or food-storage facilities. Rest and eating areas are clean, well maintained, and, as much as possible, free of pests. There are hand-washing facilities close to the food-consumption areas.
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Does the standard require access to clean and improved sanitation facilities?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
5.15.2 All employees and workers have access to clean toilets with hand-washing facilities and changing rooms. Lockable storage facilities are provided for staff. Toilets and changing rooms are separate for women and men, and the number of toilets and hand-washing facilities are in proportion to the number of employees and workers. All facilities are well maintained and cleaned regularly.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 5.15
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Does the standard prohibit harassment or abuse of workers?
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Economic Development and Fair Business Practice
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Economic Sustainability
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Does the standard include criteria on improving productivity?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
PRINCIPLE 11: CmiA Managing Entities assist CmiA-contracted farmers in sustainably increasing cotton productivity and fibre quality. CRITERION 11.1 CmiA-contracted farmers adopt planting and management practices that maximise cotton productivity and fibre quality.
Referenzdokumente:
PRINCIPLE 11 CRITERION 11.1
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Does the standard require consideration of options for business diversification?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
"Farm criteria 2a (green): The Managing Entity provides sufficient evidence todemonstrate that all farmers receive written contracts on input supplyand output sales with buyers, ginneries or their appointed agents who honour these contracts. There is field evidence that farmers do understand the implications of the contracts and pre-financing terms. The Managing Entity can demonstrate that it has mechanisms to train farmers on how to calculate the return on their ownlabour (input-output calculation).Alternatively: Collective bargaining results are applied to all farmers."
Referenzdokumente:
Cotton made in Africa (CmiA) Criteria Matrix, Version 3, 2014, CmiA Farm Level Criteria, 2a, 3b (crop rotation)
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Does the standard include criteria on improving productivity?
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Legality
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Does the standard include criteria on business legality?
Possible answers
- Basic (0 points)
- Advanced: The scheme assesses business legality for certificate holders, e.g. checking all permits that are required by law (national, regional, local) within a due diligence process. (1 point)
Excerpt from standard:
1.1.1 The Managing Entity can prove its legality through an operating licence or a trade registration established by the relevant institution of the respective country of operation. 1.1.2 The Managing Entity’s operation scheme follows the cotton-sector structure of the respective country. Managing entities operating in concession or exclusivity zones are authorised by the national government of the country of operation. 1.1.3 The Managing Entity is a member of the national sectoral association or a similar sector-organising body and adheres to its code of conduct, if any.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 1.1
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Does the standard include a requirement for compliance with relevant local, regional and national laws and regulations?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 1.1 The Managing Entity obeys the law and complies with national sectoral policies and codes of conduct. CRITERION 7.2 The Managing Entity ensures the responsible use of land. 7.2.2 Cotton is only produced on land that is classified as agricultural and/or approved for agricultural use under national legislation. Protected areas and areas with a high conservation value (HCV) are respected (cf. indicator 7.2.1). 7.2.3 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity ensures that CmiA-contracted farmers: • have the right to use the land (ideally holding land tenure); • maintain a ten-metre buffer zone of perennial vegetation with open water (river, stream, ditch, canal, pond, or lake); • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for officially designated protected areas; and • ensure that no cotton is cultivated in the locally mandated buffer zone for intact forest landscapes. 7.2.4 In the event of any conversion from non-agricultural land to agricultural land, the Managing Entity can document that CmiA-contracted farmers respected the rights of local communities and indigenous people (in line with ILO Convention 169 on the Rights of Indigenous People).
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 1.1 CRITERION 7.2
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Does the standard include criteria on business legality?
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Responsible Sourcing Practices
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Does the standard include criteria on fair prices or price premiums?
Possible answers
- No (0 points)
- Yes (2 points)
- Not Applicable (0 points)
Excerpt from standard:
"One main difference is that Cotton made in Africa cotton is traded at global market prices and avoids the use of subsidies and artificial price increases. The licensing fee firms pay to the foundation. Revenues from licence fees payed are directly re-invested in the project countries e.g. for agricultural training courses that teach smallholder farmers efficient and environmentally friendly methods of cultivation in keeping with the CmiA verification criteria."
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Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
Possible answers
Excerpt from standard:
CRITERION 3.5 The Managing Entity follows AbTF rules regarding the chain of custody, especially with respect to the preservation of traceability and the marketing of CmiA cotton or CmiA-Organic cotton.
Referenzdokumente:
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Does the standard include criteria on fair prices or price premiums?
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Does the standard include criteria for the production processes beyond primary production?
Possible answers
- Basic: Corruption and bribery is prohibited (1 point)
- Advanced (0 points)
Excerpt from standard:
1.1.4 The Managing Entity has a written anti-corruption policy, which is documented and communicated to all levels of the workforce and operations. 1.1.5 The Managing Entity is not involved in any act of corruption, extortion, or embezzlement nor in any form of bribery, including but not limited to the promising, offering, giving, or accepting of any improper monetary or non-monetary incentive.
Referenzdokumente:
CRITERION 1.1
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Economic Sustainability
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ILO Core Conventions