Social Responsibility in Supply Chain

Our 7 Essentials code of conduct calls for “Protecting the environment,” “Respect for the Individual”, and “Health and Safety” with regard to our partners and staff. These principles are reflected in our supply chain activities, mainly in seed production where we advocate the provision of decent working conditions. We also promote and train our seed producers on the safe use of pesticides and basic protective equipment when handling chemicals, as well as proper disposal of waste in and around the farm area.

The “No Child Labor” initiative is implemented in all of EWS seed producing companies as part of our corporate social responsibility. India is the country with the biggest risk for Child labor, and special emphasis has been given to this country’s seed operation to prevent child labor at all cost. We regularly organize meetings with smallholder farmers and discuss awareness about child labor, health and safety, and minimum use of chemicals in seed production. We also organize awareness campaigns in villages and schools to create awareness about the importance of education. In addition, we conduct internal and external audits on child labor in seed production fields.