FEFAC
SOY
SOURCING
GUIDELINES 2021
TOWARDS A­MAINSTREAM ­MARKET­TRANSITION FORRESPONSIBLE SOYFEBRUARY 2021 >

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

CONTENTABOUT FEFACThe European Compound Feed Manufacturers’ Federation(FEFAC) represents the European compound feed andpremix industry at the level of the European Institutions.
FEFAC consists of 25 national associations in 24 EU Member
States and the UK (full members) as well as associations in
Switzerland, Turkey, Norway, Serbia and Russia (observer /About FEFAC

2Introducing the FEFAC
Soy Sourcing Guidelines

5

The Guidelines

11

associate members).

1.

Legal Compliance11

The sustainability of livestock and aquaculture production is

2.

Responsible Working Conditions

13

a key business driver for the European feed industry. FEFAC

3.

Environmental Responsibility

17

nutrition solutions that help to increase the sustainability of4.

Good Agricultural Practices

21

livestock farming operations, from the respective

5.

Respect for Legal Use of Land

25

6.

Protection of Community Relations

27

has been assisting its members in providing animal

environmental, economic and social perspectives.
Substantial progress has been achieved already over the
past decades, but clearly, there are still many challenges forthe livestock sector that require the continued European
feed industry involvement and support providing new tools
to farmers to effectively address them.
In September 2020, FEFAC released its Feed Sustainability
Charter 2030 which includes five core ambitions:• Contribute to climate-neutral livestock and aquaculture

Verification

29

Transparency on conversion-freesoy approaches in the market

33

Definitions

37

production through feed.
• Foster sustainable food systems through increased
resource & nutrient efficiency.
• Promote responsible sourcing practices.
• Contribute to improving farm animal health & welfare.
• 	Enhance the socio-economic environment and resilienceof the livestock & a­ quaculture sectors.
The publication of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021
is FEFAC’s key commitment under the ambition to promoteresponsible sourcing practices. FEFAC sees the sourcing of
soy in accordance with the criteria of the FEFAC Soy
Sourcing Guidelines 2021 as a core pillar of a sustainable
European livestock sector.

© Cargill for the pictures on pages 1, 4, 28 and 31

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

INTRODUCING
THE FEFAC SOY­S OURCINGGUIDELINES 2021
FEFAC’s journey in facilitating responsible sourcing
practices for the procurement of soy started in 2006.
The publication of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines
in 2015 marked an important milestone in that journey,
being FEFAC’s most visible contribution to assisting
the soy value chain in its efforts to facilitate the mainstream market transition for responsible soy production and purchasing. The Guidelines brought improved
market transparency by setting a baseline to a fragmented European market with a plethora of schemes,
using different terminologies and verification approaches for describing their market solutions to address deforestation, good agricultural practice and responsible working conditions. The FEFAC Soy Sourcing
Guidelines 2021 make an additional step to further increase the market transparency for the sourcing of‘conversion-free soy’ in the spirit of continuous improvement underpinning sustainable development.

Essence of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines
The FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines are not a new standard
or certification system. They are also not intended to set thebar for ordinary sourcing policies or provide guidance onrisk management. The FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines are abenchmarking programme and in essence a professional
recommendation for feed operators and chain partners
who wish to source their soy in accordance with the European feed industry’s requirements for responsible soy production from within and outside Europe. The Guidelines

5

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

consist of a range of essential and desired criteria

Initiative has emerged as a key multi-stakeholder

which in combination set the European feed in-leader of this discussion.

dustry’s minimum required level for responsible
soy production and the chain of custody. Re-

The European Commission published its own

sponsible soy scheme owners voluntarily apply to

Communication in July 2019 with a view to mini-

have their respective (certification) standard ormise the EU’s contribution to deforestation andprogram benchmarked against the criteria in theforest degradation worldwide and promote the

Guidelines. This benchmarking exercise is inde-consumption of products from deforestation-pendently facilitated and executed by ITC (the In-

free supply chains. Tackling embedded deforest-

ternational Trade Centre).

ation is a key objective of the European Commission’s Green Deal presented at the end of 2019 by

The criteria in the Guidelines are clustered under

the new EU Commission. The European Parlia-

6 pillars:

ment adopted its own-initiative report in October 2020 setting out its recommendations for• Legal compliancethe announced EU Commission legislative pro-• Responsible working conditions

posal expected in June 2021. Several European• Environmental responsibility

countries have signed the Amsterdam Declara-• Good agricultural practices

tion Partnership, striving to ‘eliminate’ deforesta-• Respect for legal land use

tion from European supply chains through public• Protection of community relations

and private sector initiatives by 2025.

The FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021 include

New supply chain initiatives have been devel-73 criteria, of which 54 are considered essential

oped to keep track of changing market expecta-(obligatory) and 19 are desired (optional). Eachtions on conversion-free soy, such as the trans-

scheme must meet at least 8 out of 19 desiredparency reporting by the Soft Commodities

criteria to pass the benchmarking exercise. In ad-

Forum and the Soy Commodities Roadmap ofdition, also the verification requirements must be

the Consumer Goods Forum Forest Positive Coa-

met. The schemes that have successfully passed

lition. Responsible soy scheme owners have fur-the benchmarking exercise are displayed onther improved their programmes, with the aspi-

www.sustainabilitymap.org/fefac, which is a cus-ration to be able to link up with (European)

tomized platform based on ITC’s Sustainability

demand for sustainably produced commodities.

Map infrastructure. In the context of the appro-

In this context, the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guide-

priate benchmarking terminology, it is importantlines 2021 are intended to serve as a bridge con-to see FEFAC as a “convenor” of responsible soy

necting the upstream and downstream markets,

sourcing and its Guidelines as having a thresholdcreating a platform for credible and transparent/ continuous improvement benchmarking mod-mainstream market solutions that can cater to

el. The benchmarking programme is managed

the different levels of ambitions as part of a step-by the ITC.

wise approach across highly diverging markets indifferent European countries and animal produc-

The role of the Guidelines in the current

tion sectors.

public debate on soy in Europe

6

The public debate on the sourcing of responsible

FEFAC has the ambition that the Soy Sourcing

soy has significantly evolved since 2015, when the

Guidelines 2021 can play a role in the context of afirst version of the Guidelines was published. Dis-

future “smart mix” of policy measures and supply

cussions on definitional frameworks for deforest-

chain initiatives that are currently developed toation-free and conversion-free sourcing have ad-contribute to reducing pressure on land conver-

vanced and the Accountability Frameworksion from occurring. FEFAC fully a­ ppreciates andFEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

recognises the value and importance of comple-

public consultation process that involved a broad

lenge to identify a robust, functional and opera-

track the responsible soy schemes that match

mentary efforts in the area of landscape ap-

variety of stakeholders and experts involved intional system for conversion-free soy sourcing,

their own specific non-conversion commitment.

proaches in close cooperation with local

the feed and food supply chain, such as scheme

in the absence of legally binding requirements

Further details on the qualification mechanism­authorities and farmers. In this context, it isowners, chain partners and civil society groups.

as regards cut-off date and chain of custody. To

for conversion-free soy and the corresponding­important to consider superseding biome-based

Compared to the 2015 version of the Soy Sourc-

achieve this, FEFAC has developed a custom-transparency tool can be found in chapter 4.

agreements, such as the Amazon Soy

ing Guidelines, the following changes are imple-

ised ‘qualification mechanism’ on the different­Moratorium.

mented:parameters of conversion-free soy against
which scheme owners can voluntarily have•	16 desired criteria have been converted into
The Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021
and due diligenceessential criteria across all 6 pillars.
•	14 new desired criteria have been added (e.g.

The soy schemes that have successfully passed
the qualification mechanism on conversion-free

FEFAC is fully aware of growing politicalon conversion-free soy and carbon sequestra-

soy will be displayed in a Transparency Tool on

demands in Europe for stricter legislativetion).

the FEFAC webpage on ITC Sustainability Map.

approaches on due diligence, including•	2 new essential criteria on wetlands and bio-

This Transparency Tool will allow for filtering ofrisk mitigation measures, for operators

logical control agents are added following

benchmarked soy schemes that offer conver-that handle forest risk commodities such

recommendations by civil society and othersion-free soy, in line with FEFAC’s mandate to in-

as soy. Civil Society and Policy makers are

stakeholders.

crease market transparency. Users of the tool

highlighting the Private sector’s own re-•	The criteria for verification are further elabo-

will be able to easily scan through and compare

sponsibility in guaranteeing their resource

rated upon and new pre-requirements for en-

the respective non-conversion approaches byuse does not negatively impact naturaltering in the benchmark process are added.

different sustainable soy programs, for example

ecosystems or human rights in the pro-based on their cut-off dates and chain of custo-

duction origin. In this context, FEFAC is po-

Transparency as regards the standards

sitioning the use of schemes that havethat offer conversion-free soypassed the benchmarking exercise

FEFAC continues to defend and respect the lev-

against the Guidelines as a means to ef-

el of ambition of requiring forest protection in

fectively perform and document risk miti-line with legal requirements (in the production

gation, in assistance of individual opera-

country). FEFAC fully recognises that current so-

tors’ own obligations to implement acietal expectations in Europe are setting ‘con-robust, risk-based due diligence system.

version-free soy’, going beyond the legality prin-

FEFAC remains convinced that robust andciple, as the future political and market norm.

transparent certification and verification

The Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021 include a de-programmes continue to have a purpose

sired criterion on protecting forests and naturalin assuring ‘conversion-free soy’ use in theecosystems beyond legal compliance. This deci-

European livestock sector.

sion is subject to review in the foreseeable future in the light of ongoing legislative developments, which may trigger the decision toconvert this into an essential criterion. Keeping

The main changes compared to theit as a desired criterion for now is seen as the ap-­G uidelines from 2015

propriate choice in full respect of the legality

In line with the mandate bestowed on FEFAC byprinciple as well as considering the need to giveits members and the intention to stimulate con-adaptation time to any scheme aiming at pro-tinuous improvement, the Guidelines from 2015

viding a solution to the mainstream market.

have received a general ‘review upgrade’ across8

themselves benchmarked.

all its 6 pillars (i.e. environmental responsibility,

As regards the definition of ‘conversion-free soy’,good agricultural practices, community relations

FEFAC has taken guidance provided throughetc.). The amendments to the Guidelines reflect

the Accountability Framework Initiative. FEFAC

expert opinions and contributions through a

has attempted to address the remaining chal-dy models. In this way, companies can easily

Communicating compliance with the
FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines
Soy schemes are free to communicate on their compliance with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines once their scheme is displayed on the FEFAC webpage of ITC Sustainability Map after having successfully passed
the benchmarking exercise. Until schemes have passed the benchmarking exercise against the 2021 version of the Guidelines, schemes are requested to make clear that their compliance is in relation to the FEFAC
Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2015. Schemes that have passed the qualification mechanism on conversion-free soy can communicate they are “compliant with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021 including the Conversion-Free Soy module”.
By the first of January 2022, FEFAC expects to have been informed by allsoy schemes benchmarked against the 2015 version of the Guidelines onwhat their intentions are as regards re-benchmarking of their scheme
against the 2021 version. On 1 January 2022, the 2015 benchmarking results become invalid and schemes can no longer claim complianceagainst the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines unless this is done against
the 2021 version.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

THE FEFAC SOY SOURCINGGUIDELINES 2021
The following section includes the 6 pillars andthe 73 criteria of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021.

1.		 LEGAL COMPLIANCE		In respect of the legality principle FEFAC, considers compliancewith the relevant forest and eco-systems protection legislation as
the first key step towards responsible soy production. Most soy
producing countries have a comprehensive legislative framework
including several (ratified) international conventions. However,
FEFAC notes that proof of compliance with the relevant national
and local legislation remains an issue and challenge for many soyvalue chain operators. Verification of compliance with the law and all other items - remains a very important part of the­FEFAC’s approach.

Theme 1.1
The producer is aware of the applicable laws
and applicable laws are being complied
with.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIAIMMEDIATELY
1

Awareness of responsibilities according toapplicable laws can be demonstrated.

IMMEDIATELY
2

Applicable laws are being complied with.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

2. RESPONSIBLE WORKING CONDITIONS	The main criteria under this principle are directly derived from thecore ILO-conventions, supplemented with criteria on worker
health and safety. It is very important that all workers in soy production can perform their work in a safe and healthy manner andare fairly compensated for their work. Fundamental human rights
need to be protected at all times and workers need to be able toorganize themselves and perform collective bargaining on behalfof others.

Theme 2.1

8 	The work week shall be set according to local

Child labour, forced labour, discriminatio

and national laws, shall be consistent with lo-

and harassment are not engaged in or sup-cal industry standards, and shall, at maxi-

ported.

mum, not routinely exceed 48 hours per
week (not including overtime).

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
3	
No forced, compulsory, bonded, trafficked or

9 	Overtime is always voluntary and should beotherwise involuntary labour is used in any

paid in accordance to local and national laws

stage of production.

or sector agreements.

4 	Children under 15 (or a higher age as estab-

10 	Overtime in excess of 12 hours per week islished in national law) do not carry out pro-

only allowable if it happens in extraordinary,ductive work. Young workers (15-18) must notlimited periods where there are time con-undertake hazardous work that jeopardizes

straints or risks of economic loss and where

their health and welfare, including by inter-conditions regarding overtime in excess of 12

fering with their education.

hours per week have been agreed between
workers and management.

5 	There is no engagement in, support for, or

tolerance of any form of discrimination.

DESIRED CRITERIA
11	All workers receive equal remuneration for

6 	Workers are not subject to corporal punish-work of equal value, equal access to training

ment, mental or physical oppression or coer-and benefits and equal opportunities forcion, verbal or physical abuse, sexual harass-promotion and for filling all available

ment or any kind of intimidation.

­position.

7 	No workers of any type are required to lodge

their identity papers with anyone, unless re-12	Farmers implement policies and procedures

to address workers grievances.

quired by law.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Theme 2.2

cultural practices and sustainable soy pro-

A safe and healthy workplace is provided for

duction.

all workers.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Theme 2.3

13	
A safe and healthy workplace is provided for

There is freedom of association and the rightall workers, this includes at least access toof collective bargaining for all workers.

safe drinking water, basic sanitary facilities
and protective equipment.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
22	There is the right for all workers to establish

14

Potentially hazardous tasks are only carried

and/or join an organization of choice.

out by capable and competent people, whoreceived training about performing those23	All workers have the right to perform collec-

tive bargaining.

tasks safely.
15

Adequate and appropriate protective equip-

24 	 The effective functioning of worker associa-

ment and clothing is provided and used intions / organizations of workers is not im-

all potentially hazardous operations.

peded. Representatives are not subject todiscrimination and have access to their

16

Medical treatment / first aid shall be provid-

members in the workplace on request.

ed without delay and first aid kits are present at all permanent sites and in the vicinity of fieldwork.

Theme 2.4
Remuneration at least equal to national leg-

17

Producers and their employees demon-

islation and sector agreements is received

strate an awareness and understanding ofby all workers directly or indirectly employed

health and safety matters. Relevant healthon the farm.

and safety risks are identified, proceduresare developed to address these risks by em-

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

ployers, and these are monitored.

25	Gross wages comply with national legisla-tion and sector agreements.
18

Accident and emergency procedures exist
and instructions are clearly understood by

26

All workers have a written contract in a language they can understand. In those coun-all workers.

tries where there are no requirements for
DESIRED CRITERIA

formal labour agreements between workers

19	There is a system of warnings followed by le-and employers, alternative documented evi-gally-permitted sanctions for workers that dodence of a labour relationship must be pre-not apply safety requirements.

sent.

20 	Producers make sure there is regular mainte-

27

nance of machinery, equipment and materi-

There is monitoring in place of working
hours and overtime.

als in order to ensure safe functioning ofthese devices.

28

Deductions from wages for disciplinary purposes are not made, unless legally21 	Producers make sure their workers receive

regular training on safety, health, good agri-

14

permitted. Wages paid are recorded by theemployer.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

3. ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY	Standards and programmes for responsible soy have to makesure that there are adequate checks to ensure the relevant soy
expansion, forest, biodiversity and nature legislation is being
complied with.

Theme 3.1

slopes and hills) must be maintained or re-

The expansion of soy cultivation is done in astored. Wetlands (Ramsar Convention*)

legal and responsible manner to protect nat-must be protected.

ural ecosystems
DESIRED CRITERIAESSENTIAL CRITERIA
29

T he farmer complies with the legislation rel-32	Farmers protect rare, threatened or endan-

gered wildlife species on their lands.

evant for the expansion of soy production(e.g. land ownership, biodiversity legislation,

33 	Farms should maintain and safeguard native

forest legislation, land management poli-vegetation on their farm in order to protectcies). No soy is produced on land that is ille-

and provide habitat for wildlife species. There

gally converted after a certain cut-off dateis a map of the farm which shows the native

mentioned in national legislation.

vegetation and there is a plan to protect andrecover native vegetation.

30

31

Areas that are assigned as legal reserve,
conservation area or otherwise secured by34	
No soy is produced in converted natural eco-law have to be protected. These areas mustsystems (natural forest, native grasslands,

be restored to its former state if any altera-

wetlands, swamps, peatlands, savannas,tion has taken place or legally approved

steep slopes and riparian areas) after a spe-compensating actions should be taken.

cific cut-off date no later than 2020.

Areas of natural vegetation around bodies ofwater (riparian vegetation and flood plains)
and on areas sensitive to erosion (steep

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Theme 3.2
Production waste is managed responsibly.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
35

There is adequate storage and disposal offuel, batteries, tires, lubricants, sewage andother waste in accordance with national legislation.

36

The burning on any part of the property ofcrop residues, waste, or as part of vegetation
clearance is not allowed, unless it is neededfor drying crops or obliged by national legislation as a sanitary measure.

37

Measures are taken to reduce or recycle
waste as much as possible.

DESIRED CRITERIA
38 Farmers make sure that there is no run-off ofwaste water, chemical residues, minerals
and organic substances.

Theme 3.3
Efforts are made to reduce the use of fossil
fuels.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
39.

Use of fossil fuels is monitored.

40.

Farmers reduce the use of fossil fuels, for instance by implementing precision agriculture techniques, controlled traffic farming orlighter machinery.

DESIRED CRITERIA
41

Farmers actively work on carbon sequestration in the soil, for instance by applying nontillage, planting of cover crops or applying
intercropping practices.

18

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

4. GOOD AGRICULTURAL PRACTICES	Farmers can make their production more sustainable by using
precision farming techniques and by incorporating knowledge on
relevant good practices to improve production. Good farming
practices start with a healthy soil that has the capacity to capture
water and provide nutrients to the plant. Healthy soils are the basis for healthy crops. In case agrochemicals are applied, they need
to be applied in a careful manner, minimizing potential harm topeople, plants and the environment.

Theme 4.1
The quality and supply of surface and46	There is monitoring, appropriate to scale, todemonstrate that the practices to protect

ground water is maintained or improved.

water quality are effective.
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
42

G ood agricultural practices* are implement-

47	Water use on the farm is carefully monitored.

ed to minimize diffuse and localized im-

Actions are implemented to reduce water

pacts on surface and ground water quality

use wherever possible.

from chemical residues, fertilizers and erosion or other sources.
*for example maintaining a buffer zone around water bodies,treating waste water, precision farming etc.

Theme 4.2
Soil quality is maintained or improved and43

Any direct evidence of localized contamina-

measures are taken to avoid erosion.

tion of ground or surface water is reported
to, and monitored in collaboration with local

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

authorities.

48

The farmer has knowledge of techniques* tomaintain and control soil quality (physical,

44

When irrigation is used, relevant legislation

chemical and biological) and the relevant

is being complied with.

techniques are implemented. *for example:
precision farming, residue management,

DESIRED CRITERIA

crop rotation, no tillage, contour tillage,

45	Farmers make sure their practices (e.g. water

grass waterways, terraces, nitrogen-fixing

extraction) do not impact sensitive wetlands

plants, green manures and agro-forestry

or swamps in the vicinity of their operation.

techniques.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

49

The farmer has knowledge of techniques* to57	There is no application of pesticides within

63	
Farmers make use of Integrated Crop Man-

prevent soil erosion and the relevant tech-

30 meters (or more when as such prescribedagement technologies. This includes ade-niques are implemented. *for example: fol-in national legislation) of any populated area

quate and continuous monitoring of crop

lowing contours with operations for soil

or water body and all necessary precautions

health, use of non-chemical and chemical

preparation, using terraces, using cover

are taken to avoid people entering into re-control means and measures to improvecrops, minimizing tillage and placing windcently sprayed areas.

crop resilience.

breaks.
58	Agrochemicals shall be applied using meth50

DESIRED CRITERIAThere is monitoring, appropriate to scale, to

ods that minimize harm to human health,demonstrate that the practices to protect

wildlife, plant biodiversity, and water and air

plemented to monitor, control and minimize

soil quality and prevent soil erosion are inquality.

the spread of invasive introduced species

place.

64	
Systematic measures are planned and im-

and new pests.
59	
Aerial application of pesticides is carried out

DESIRED CRITERIA
51

52

in such a way that it does not have an impact

65	
Farmers have an Integrated Crop Manage-

Farmers enhance the soil by applying cropon populated areas and water bodies. All aer-ment plan that includes targets for reduction

rotation (minimum of 2 crops).

ial application is preceded by advance notifi-

of potentially harmful phytosanitary prod-

cation to residents within 500 m (or more

ucts over time.

Farmers enhance their soils and avoid soil

when as such prescribed in national legisla-compaction by applying no-tillage practices.

tion) of the planned application. There is noaerial application of pesticides in WHO Class

53 	Farmers improve their soils with the use ofcover crops and or intercropping practices.

Ia, Ib and II within 500 m (or more when as
such prescribed in national legislation) of
populated areas or water bodies.
DESIRED CRITERIA

Theme 4.3
Agrochemicals listed in the Stockholm and60	
There is no use of PAN dirty dozen, WHO 1A,

1B and 2 chemicals.

Rotterdam Convention are not used and allapplication of agrochemicals is in accordance with best practices.
Theme 4.4
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Negative environmental and health impacts

54	There is no use of agrochemicals listed in theof phytosanitary products are reduced by

Stockholm and Rotterdam Conventions.

implementation of systematic, recognizedIntegrated Crop Management Techniques.

55	Producers are required to ensure that any

use of biological control agents complies

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

with national legislation.

61	
Use of phytosanitary products follows legal

requirements (or professional recommenda56	The application of agrochemicals (crop pro-tection and fertilizers) is documented. All

tions) in the country of origin and measures
to prevent resistance should be taken.

handling, storage, collection and disposal of
agrochemical waste and empty agrochemi-

62	Appropriate measures are implemented tocal containers, is monitored. Use, storage andallow for coexistence of different productionwaste disposal of agrochemicals is in line

systems.

with the professional recommendations andapplicable legislation.

22

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

5. RESPECT FOR LEGAL USE OF LAND
	FEFAC considers it crucial that soy production and expansion only
takes place on land for which ownership is clearly defined and undisputed. In soy expansion areas there can be multiple claims on
one piece of land or the land rights of indigenous peoples and local communities can be poorly protected. Programmes and standards included in the benchmark have to make sure soy is only produced on lands for which ownership is not subject to conflict.

Theme 5.1

Theme 5.2

Legal use rights to the land are clearly de-

In areas with traditional land users, conflict-fined and demonstrable.

ing land uses are avoided or resolved.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIAESSENTIAL CRITERIA

66

T here is documented evidence of rights to67

Producers make sure that, prior to any new

use the land (e.g. ownership document,

activity (acquiring or developing land) thatrental agreement, court order etc.).

may affect IPLC rights, land, resources, livelihoods, and food security, their free, priorand informed consent (FPIC) is secured.
68

There is no conversion of land where there isan unresolved land use claim by traditional
land users under litigation, without theagreement of both parties.

69

In the case of disputed use rights, a comprehensive, participatory and documented
community right sassessment is carried out
and the recommendations from the assessment are being followed.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

6.	P ROTECTION OF COMMUNITY
RELATIONS	Farmers are not producing in isolation but need to take into account the concerns of their customers, supply chain and neighbours. It is important that farmers are open for questions and concerns and that they are accessible to their neighbours, whether
farmers, local communities or indigenous peoples. Therefore, the
FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021 also include criteria for communication with others and adequately dealing with complaints.

Theme 6.1

Theme 6.2

A mechanism for resolving complaints andChannels are available for communication

grievances is implemented and available toand dialogue with the local community on

local communities and traditional land

topics related to the activities of the soy­u sers.

farming operation and its impacts.

ESSENTIAL CRITERIAESSENTIAL CRITERIA

70	
Complaints and grievances from workers,

73	
There are communication channels (written

neighbors, local communities and tradition-

sign or website with the following informa-

al land users are dealt with in an appropriate

tion: email, cell-phone, mailbox) that ade-manner. Documented evidence of com-quately enable communication between theplaints and grievances received is main-

producer and the community. The commu-

tained.

nication channels have been made known to
the local communities.

71	In case a relevant competent authority re-quires the farmer to react to a complaint or
grievance in a certain way, the farmer will doso in a timely manner.
72 	The complaint mechanism (e.g. written com-plaint form, being accessible via email,phone or written post) is transparent, hasbeen made known and is available to all
workers, local communities and traditional
land users.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

VERIFIC ATION
The verification section sets the minimum requirements for soy standards and programs making sure they can guarantee in a credible and robust manner that all criteria in their standard or
program are met. Compared to the 2015 Guidelines, a number of elements are added: pre-requisites for entering in the benchmark process, additional requirements for verification and specificrequirements for verifying the non-conversion criteria. The latter is especially relevant for the transparency tool on non-conversion.

Pre-requirements for the benchmark• 	Schemes that want to join in the (re-) benchmark haveto publish their standard documentation online on theirwebsite or a separate dedicated website on their sustainable soy offer. All interested stakeholders should be
able to easily find these documents. The documentation
should include a clear description of the verification system and (if applicable) the non-conversion approach.
• 	All schemes should make sure that the latest version of
their standard is included in the ITC Sustainability Map
and that any modifications to the standards are sharedwith ITC and FEFAC.
Verification requirements
In the 2015 version of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines, adecision tree was included defining two different routes forthe verification in soy standards. The first route elaborated
on certification of individual farmers and the second routeon a third-party verified internal control system. These tworoutes are still accepted by FEFAC. In the section below therequirements for certification and verification are given.

29

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Route 1: Farmer certification

higher the risk of non-compliance, theFarmer certification is based on the principle

stricter the verification requirementsthat an external third party (a certification body)need to be)comes to check the practices at farmer level.

		­According to the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines
2021, certification systems are credible when all- Clear procedures for dealing with nonconformities		elements listed below are present:- An accessible complaint mechanism forthe farmers towards the standard owner.

		• 	Audits are executed by a third party that is ac-- The documentation about the internal
control system is available to external

credited based on ISO 17021 or ISO 17065.

parties upon request.

• 	The third party is accredited by a national ac-• 	There is an independent third party involved

creditation party affiliated to the International

to check a sample of farmers (at least 10% of

Accreditation Forum (IAF) or in compliancethe total number of farmers) on an annual ba-

with ISO 17011.

sis and to assess the set-up, implementation• 	The necessary procedure for obtaining certification is clearly described.
• 	There is a clear written procedure for determining the sample size (in the case of group
certification) and the audit frequency is given

and outcomes of the internal control systemon a biannual basis.
• 	The third party meets the requirements as set
out below:		(≤ 3 years).

is accredited based on ISO 17021 or ISO• 	The length of the validity of the certification is17065 or operates in a way that is provenindicated (≤5 years).

to be equivalent to the procedures in ISO• 	Farmers receive their own audit report.
• 	Clear procedures for dealing with non-conformities are available.
• 	There is a complaint mechanism from farmers or clients towards the standard owners(e.g. complaint form on the website), that iswell and easy accessible.

-A udits are executed by a third party that

17021 / ISO 17065.
		- The third party is accredited by a national
accreditation party affiliated to the International Accreditation Forum (IAF) or incompliance with ISO 17011.

• 	The report by the third party (every 2 years)
about the quality assessment of the Internal
Control System is made available upon­request. In the context of this benchmark,Route 2: External verification of an internal­FEFAC could ask for this information to verify

control systemcompliance with its criteria.

Some soy standards and programmes make useof an internal control system that is externallyverified by an independent third party. According to the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines, verified internal control systems are credible when
all elements listed below are present:• 	There is an internal control system including
procedures and administrative requirements
to assure that all individual farmers comply
with the criteria• 	The internal control system needs to include:		- A clear written procedure for group sampling based on a risk-assessment, (the30FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

TRANSPARENC Y
ON CONVE RSIONFREE SOYAPPROACHESIN THE MARKE T
FEFAC has developed a qualification mechanism and atransparency tool to facilitate the market transparency onconversion-free soy available on the market. This chapter
intends to explain both elements in further ­detail.

Qualification mechanism for conversion-free soy
In line with FEFAC’s mandate to improve market transpa­
rency about conversion-free soy, it created a qualification
mechanism for conversion-free soy considering the biomesthat are protected, the cut-off date, the chain of custody­model and the assurance mechanism to guarantee­conversion-free soy in a credible way. These four key elementsof the qualification are individually highlighted below. Whensoy schemes meet the requirements of the qualification
mechanism, they will be displayed in the transparency tool on
the FEFAC webpage on ITC Sustainability Map.

Non-conversion criterion in the Guidelines
As mentioned before, the non-conversion criterion isa desired criterion. All standards that cover this criterion are invited to provide additional information in thequalification mechanism for non-conversion. The desired criterion is phrased as follows:
34. No soy is produced in converted natural ecosystems (natural forest, native grasslands, wetlands,
swamps, peatlands, savannas, steep slopes and riparian areas) after a specific cut-off date.

Foto: Lucas Pezeta

33

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Protection of natural ecosystems

parency tool will allow to filter on the basis of

In order to appear in the transparency tool, thetwo time period clusters of cut-off dates.

needs to be based on satellite images of astandard has clear provisions on non-conversion-

2007-2009

resolution of 30 meter (or a higher resolu-

of natural ecosystems; stating explicitly which-

2010-2020tion). In those areas where context specific-

natural ecosystems are protected and as of•	Verification of the non-conversion claim

data are available, they should be used (e.g.

which specific cut-off date (month + year) not

The two clusters are mutually exclusive and col-PRODES Amazon, PRODES Cerrado).

later than 2020.

lectively exhaustive, making them complemen-•	The non-conversion criterion needs to betary to the ITC Database. The clusters allow for

verified by the independent third-party in-

FEFAC concluded that the different standards

different levels of ambition to be set, as certain

charge for verifying compliance with all

and programmes for responsible soy produc-markets consider recent cut-off dates as accept-

standards criteria. The independent third

tion can credibly deliver adequate natural eco-able and ambitious whereas other markets only

party needs to have the knowledge to inter-system protection provisions in three different

recognize schemes with a 2008/2009 cut-off

ways:

date as credible.

pret satellite images.
• 	The satellite images used and the method

In addition, schemes that offer carbon footprintused to define and distinguish the different•	Referring to specific natural ecosystems thatdata for their soy, with or without a proven ab-

ecosystem types needs to be described inshould not be converted (natural forest,

sence of land use change over the past 20 years,­native grasslands, wetlands, swamps, peat-

can apply to be displayed as well.

lands, savannas, steep slopes and riparian ar-

publicly available standard documentation.
•	The standard owner needs to collect andstore the satellite maps of all certified farmseas) after a specific cut-off date not later

Chain of custody model

than 2020. The definitions from the Account-

Different supply chain solutions are offered for• 	When a standard is implemented in an area

ability Framework need to be followed. The

conversion-free soy, in accordance with market

with no-conversion risk, it should provide ac-approach followed under the Renewable

demand. In addition, certain scheme owners of-curate proof that no-conversion is taking­Energies Directive is seen as a credible ap-

fer more than one chain of custody model forplace with region specific satellite images orproach to assure absence of conversion, with

their conversion-free soy. FEFAC does not con-other publicly available sources that clearly

a cut-off date of January 2008.

sider itself a party in determining the rules andstate that conversion of natural lands is not

guidance for the different chain of custody

an issue.

•	Referring to protecting specific areas of(in the group) and share them upon request.

“High Conservation Value” after a certain

models. The new ISO-22095 provides useful in-­cut-off date. Here FEFAC requires that an­formation and reference on these models. The

The transparency tool

official HCV-assessment needs to be carriedchain of custody models that are available in the

The transparency tool for conversion-free soyout and made available upon request.

market place and for the filter are:that will become available on www.sustainabili-•	Referring to an absolute prohibition to con-tymap.org/fefac is an additional feature to thevert natural ecosystems for agriculture – in-•Book and Claim (Credits)

renewed FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines andcluding all types of natural ecosystems - af-•

Mass Balance

benchmark. The tool will display the soy

ter a specific cut-off date.

•

Area Mass Balance

schemes that have successfully passed the•Segregation

qualification mechanism. Web-users will be

Note! All standards that passed through theable to compare the schemes on three different

benchmark AND are on the list of voluntary sus-

Assuranceelements: non-conversion provisions, cut-off

tainability standards that are approved/accept-

Many stakeholders emphasized the need fordate and chain of custody models. This section

ed by the European Commission as compliant

transparent control of the non-conversion claim.

will be updated once the updated FEFAC web-with the sustainability criteria of the recast Re-

The Accountability Framework gives guidance

page on ITC Sustainability Map is launched.

newable Energy Directive (EU) 2018/2001 are au-

on how verification can be checked in their Op-

tomatically accepted in the Transparency Tool.

erational Guidance on Monitoring and Verification and their specific guidance for specific bi-

34

Cut-off dates

omes. FEFAC translated this information into

In the transparency tool all schemes are visible

the following requirements for an adequate lev-with a cut-off date no later than 2020. The trans-

el of assurance:

35

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

DEFINITIONSIn the creation of the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines 2021, FEFAC has
followed the definitions of the Accountability Framework. All concepts
and terms are explained in the section below.

Accountability Framework 	A practical, consensus-based guide for achieving and monitoring ethical supply chains. The Framework brings together accepted international norms, best practices, and expectations of commodity buyers,investors, and civil society into a single integrated resource for effective action to address the deforestation, conversion, and human rights
impacts of supply chains. The Accountability Framework is created by
the Accountability Framework Initiative (Afi).
Agro-forestry techniques	Land use systems and techniques where woody perennials (trees,
shrubs, palms, bamboos, etc.) are deliberately used on the same landmanagement units as agricultural crops and/or animals, in some formof spatial arrangement or temporal sequence (FAO).

Amazon Soy Moratorium 	The Amazon Soy Moratorium is an agreement from 2006 made between companies (especially grain traders) and civil society to ensurethat soy production in the Amazon region only occurs on existing
converted agricultural land and not through deforestation of native
vegetation.
Amsterdam Declaration	The Amsterdam Declarations Partnership is based on the Amsterdam
Partnership 	Declarations on deforestation from 2015. Since 2021 the country signatories include Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain and the United Kingdom. The commitment is toeliminate deforestation in relation to agricultural commodities by
2025.
Area Mass Balance 	A supply chain model that combines mass balance and book & claim.
Collectors / traders who buy a physical flow of material/product on theregular market can buy ‘credits for responsible production’ fromgrowers. These credits must come from growers working in the same
area where the physical material/product is purchased. The certificates of the purchasing area are administratively linked to the deliveryof the material or product from that area via a mass balance model(Source Cefetra & GMP+).
Benchmark 	To benchmark is the act of determining (or judging) alignment withthe fixed reference point (Source: ISEAL).

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37

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Benchmarking exercise 	A ‘one-off’ benchmark, which is not part of a long-term programme, policy or strategy. For example, a scoping report de-Conversion-free	Another word for produced with no-conversion (see no-conversion).

livered by a consultant to inform a policy process might include a benchmarking exercise but does not constitute aConversion-free soy	The mechanism developed by FEFAC to determine whether

benchmarking programme. (Source: ISEAL).

Qualification Mechanism 	a soy scheme has a credible proposition to deliver conversion-free soy. Soy schemes that meet the requirements ofBenchmarking programme	A structured and systematic way of carrying out evaluations

the qualification mechanism are displayed in the Transpar-

against benchmarks, often coupled to specific organisation-ency Tool on the FEFAC webpage on ITC Sustainability Map.

al or policy goals. (Source: ISEAL).
Crop rotation	Crop rotation is the practice of growing a series of different
Book & Claim	A chain of custody model in which the administrative­record flow is not necessarily connected to the physical flow

types of crops in the same area across a sequence of growing seasons.

of material or product throughout the supply chain. This
chain of custody model is also referred to as “certificate

Cover crops 	Plants that are planted to cover the soil (and hence protect it­trading model” or “credit trading”. This is often used whereagainst erosion) rather than for the purpose of being har-the certified/specified material cannot, or only withvested.

­difficulty, be kept separate from the non-certified/specified
material, such as green credits in an electricity supply(Source: ISO 22095).

Comprehensive, participatory	Community rights assessment should aim at: a) identifying
and documented community 	the individual and collective uses and rights of local ­Certification system	Sustainability standards and certifications are voluntary,rights assessment 	communities and traditional land users; b) identifying uses

usually third party-assessed, norms and standards relatingof water resources c) identifying the places and landscapeto environmental, social and ethical issues, adopted by com-conditions needed to meet these rights; d) identifying thepanies to demonstrate the performance of their organiza-

places/issues where there is conflict between property

tions or products in specific areas.

rights and traditional land use rights and ecosystem services; e) finding a solution to resolve possible conflicting land

Carbon sequestration	Carbon sequestration is the process of capturing carbon di-uses and/or agree on proposals for compensation. Where aoxide from the atmosphere into the soil or oceans/water

legal judgment has been reached, the terms of this judg-

bodies.

ment will be respected. Should there a litigation process,while this is sub judice (under litigation; decision pending),

Contour tillage	A method of planting crops across the slope of the land or
perpendicular to the flow of water.

this will not hinder access to certification provided that
guidance given by the judge is followed. In the absence ofsuch guidance, traditional land users may continue exercis-

Conversion 	Change of a natural ecosystem to another land use or pro-ing their rights until the case is resolved (Source RTRS).

found change in a natural ecosystem’s species composition,
structure, or function. Conversion includes severe degrada-

Cut-off date 	(Related to no-deforestation and no-conversion commit-

tion or the introduction of management practices that re-ments): The date after which deforestation or conversion

sult in substantial and sustained change in the ecosystem’s

renders a given area or production unit non-compliant withformer species composition, structure, or function.

no-deforestation or no-conversion commitments, respectively.

Convenor 	The organisation that leads development of a benchmarking exercise or programme and makes key decisions about

Deforestation 	Loss of natural forest as a result of: i) conversion to agricul-

its purpose, structure and process (in this case FEFAC). The

ture or other non-forest land use; ii) conversion to a tree

convenor can implement the benchmarking programme orplantation; or iii) severe and sustained degradation. Loss ofoutsource this to external experts or consultancies (in thisnatural forest that meets this definition is considered to becase ITC) (Source: ISEAL).

deforestation regardless of whether or not it is legal. The Accountability Framework’s definition of deforestation signi-

38

39

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

fies “gross deforestation” of natural forest where “gross” isConsumer Goods Forum	The Consumer Goods Forum Forest Positive Coalition is aused in the sense of “total; aggregate; without deduction for

Forest Positive Coalition 	coalition for which the members have aligned on a direction

reforestation or other offset. (Source: The Accountabilityof travel to make changes within their own operations, work

Framework).

with governments and stakeholders to build enabling environments for forest positive soy production, and fundamen-

Deforestation-free

See no-deforestation.

tally, engage with actors in their supply chains to encourage
not just a forest positive supply of soy, but also transforma-

Desired criteria	To pass the benchmarking exercise against the the FEFAC

tion towards forest positive suppliers. In November 2020, theSoy Sourcing Guidelines, soy schemes do not need to in-

Consumer Goods Forum Forest Positive Coalition released

clude all desired criteria, as opposed to the essential criteria .

its Soy Commodity Roadmap.

However, soy schemes must include at least 8 out of 19 desired criteria.

Global Forest Watch	Global Forest Watch (GFW) is an online platform that provides near-real-time data and tools for monitoring forests.

Due dilligence	A risk management process implemented by a company toidentify, prevent, mitigate, and account for how it addresses

Green manure	Green manure is created by leaving uprooted or sown crop

environmental and social risks and impacts in its operations,parts to wither on a field so that they serve as a mulch andsupply chains, and investments.

soil amendment (also referred to as cover crops).

Essential criteria 	To pass the benchmarking exercise against the FEFAC Soy

Grass waterways	Grassed waterways are constructed graded channels that

Sourcing Guidelines, soy schemes need to include all 54 es-

are seeded to grass or other suitable vegetation. The vege-

sential criteria .

ta- tion slows the water and the grassed waterway conveys
the water to a stable outlet at a non-erosive velocity (Source

FEFAC	FEFAC is the European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation. It is

NCRS).

located in Brussels, Belgium.
High Conservation 	The HCV Approach is a unique three-step methodology thatFirst party verification	Verification conducted by the company itself but carried out

Value approach 	helps protect HCVs where development will take place.

by personnel not involved in the design or implementation

HCVs are biological, ecological, social or cultural values ofof the operations being verified.

outstanding significance at the national, regional or global
level or of critical importance at the local level. All natural

Flood plain	Area of low-lying ground alongside a river, formed mainly ofriver sediments and subject to flooding.

habitats possess inherent conservation values, including thepresence of rare or endemic species, provision of ecosystemservices, sacred sites, or resources harvested by local resi-

Free, Prior, Informed Consent 	A collective human right of indigenous peoples and local

dents.

communities to give and withhold their consent prior to thecommencement of any activity that may affect their rights,

40

ILO Conventions 	The ILO Conventions are international treaties about labour

land, resources, territories, livelihoods, and food security. It is

practices and human rights. They are instruments, which

a right exercised through representatives of their own

create legally binding obligations on the countries that ratify

choosing and in a manner consistent with their own cus-them. Recommendations are non-binding and set out

toms, values, and norms.

guidelines orienting national policies and actions.

Forest 	Land spanning more than 0.5 hectares with trees higher than 5

ILO Fundamental Conventions	The eight ILO fundamental Conventions are: the Forced La-

meters and a canopy cover of more than 10 percent, or trees ablebour Convention, 1930 (No. 29) , the Abolition of Forced La-

to reach these thresholds in situ. It does not include land that isbour Convention, 1957 (No. 105) , the Freedom of Association

predominantly under agricultural or other land use. Forest in-

and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948

cludes natural forests and tree plantations. For the purpose of im-(No. 87) , the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining

plementing no-deforestation supply chain commitments, the fo-

Convention, 1949 (No. 98) , the Equal Remuneration Conven-cus is on preventing the conversion of natural forests.

tion, 1951 (No. 100) , the Discrimination (Employment and41

FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Occupation) Convention, 1958 (No. 111) , the Minimum Age

Landscape approaches	The landscape approach aims to develop a shared vision forConvention, 1973 (No. 138) , and the Worst Forms of Child La-

the future by integrating the objectives of all stakeholders atbour Convention, 1999 (No. 182).

landscape level, in order to establish long-term integrated
sustainable development.

ISO 17021	ISO standard on: Conformity assessment; Requirements forbodies providing audit and certification of management
systems.

Landstat satellite images	This joint NASA/USGS program provides the longest continuous space-based record of Earth’s land in existence. Everyday, Landsat satellites provide essential information to help

ISO 17065	ISO standard on: Conformity assessment; Requirements forbodies certifying products, processes and services.
ISO 17011	ISO standard on: Conformity assessment — Requirements

land managers and policy makers make wise decisions
about our resources and our environment.
Mass balance 	A chain of custody model in which materials or products

for accreditation bodies accrediting conformity assessmentwith a set of specified characteristics are mixed according tobodies.

defined criteria with materials or products without that setof characteristics. The proportion of the input with specified

ISO 22095	ISO standard on: Chain of custody — General terminology
and models.

characteristics might only match the initial proportions on
average and will typically vary across different outputs(Source ISO 22095).

ITC database 	See Sustainability Map. The database used by the International Trade Center to benchmark soy schemes against the
FEFAC Guidelines.

Natural Forest 	Natural forests possess many or most of the characteristics
of a forest native to the given site, including species composition, structure, and ecological function. Natural forests in-International Accreditation	The IAF is the world association of Conformity ­clude: Primary forests that have not been subject to major

Forum (IAF) 	Assessment Accreditation Bodies and other bodies interest-

human impacts in recent history, Regenerated (second-ed in conformity assessment in the fields of management

growth) forests that were subject to major impacts in thesystems, products, services, personnel and other similar pro-past (for instance by agriculture, livestock raising, tree plan-

grammes of conformity assessment.

tations, or intensive logging) but where the main causes ofimpact have ceased or greatly diminished and the ecosys-

Internal control system	In the case of the FEFAC Guidelines, the internal control sys-

tem has attained much of the species composition, struc-tems contains all agreements, procedures, administrationture, and ecological function of prior or other contemporary

and verification mechanisms to make sure production ofnatural ecosystems. Managed natural forests where muchsoy is in line with the sustainability requirements.

of the ecosystem’s composition, structure, and ecological
function exist in the presence of activities such as: Harvest-

Integrated crop management 	An environmentally sensitive and economically viable produc-

ing of timber or other forest products, including manage-

tion system or process which uses the latest available tech-ment to promote high-value species, Low intensity, small-niques to produce high quality food in an efficient manner.

scale cultivation within the forest, such as less-intensive

ITC	The International Trade Centre is a multilateral agency whichforms of swidden agriculture in a forest mosaic, Forests thathas a joint mandate with the World Trade Organization andhave been partially degraded by anthropogenic or natural

the United Nations through the United Nations Conference

causes (e.g., harvesting, fire, climate change, invasive spe-on Trade and Development. The headquarters of the ITC arecies, or others) but where the land has not been converted

in Geneva.

to another use and where degradation does not result in thesustained reduction of tree cover below the thresholds thatLand Use Change (LUC)	The process by which human activities transform the natu-

define a forest or sustained loss of other main elements ofral landscape, referring to how land has been used, usually

ecosystem composition, structure, and ecological function

emphasizing the functional role of land for economic activi-(Source: Afi).

ties.

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Native grassland

Native grasslands are grasslands that substantially resemble– in terms of species composition, structure, and ecologicalNo-tillage 	No-till farming is an agricultural technique for growing crops
or pasture without disturbing the soil through tillage.

function – one that is or would be found in a given area in
the absence of major human impacts.

Peatlands 	Pristine peatlands are characterized by the presence of water and special vegetation. The peat soil, often exceeding

Natural Ecosystem 	An ecosystem that substantially resembles – in terms of spe-many meters in depth, consists of organic material and wa-

cies composition, structure, and ecological function – one

ter and is created by the accumulation of partially decom-that is or would be found in a given area in the absence ofposed plant materials. The layers of peat build up overmajor human impacts. This includes human-managed eco-sometimes thousands of years and preserve other materials

systems where much of the natural species composition,

including pollen grains, human artefacts and ancient bod-

structure, and ecological function are present. Natural eco-ies, giving us an unrivalled window into the past (Source:

systems include: Largely “pristine” natural ecosystems thatRamsar Convention).

have not been subject to major human impacts in recent
history, Regenerated natural ecosystems that were subject

Precision farming 	Precision agriculture means that plants get precisely theto major impacts in the past (for instance by agriculture,

treatment they need, determined with great accuracy

livestock raising, tree plantations, or intensive logging) but

thanks to the latest technology.

where the main causes of impact have ceased or greatly diminished and the ecosystem has attained species composition, structure and ecological function similar to prior or oth-

Prodes (Amazon/Cerrado)	PRODES data are the official national statistics on deforesta-

er contemporary natural ecosystems; Managed naturaltion, used by the Brazilian government to establish public

ecosystems (including many ecosystems that could be re-policy and track progress towards deforestation reduction

ferred to as “semi-natural”) where much of the ecosystem’s

goals.

composition, structure, and ecological function are present;
this includes managed natural forests as well as native

Ramsar Convention	The Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty

grasslands or rangelands that are, or have historically been,that provides the framework for national action and interna-grazed by livestock, Natural ecosystems that have been par-tional cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wet-tially degraded by anthropogenic or natural causes (e.g.,lands and their resources.

harvesting, fire, climate change, invasive species, or others)
but where the land has not been converted to another use

Renewable Energy	The EU Renewable Energy Directive sets rules and targets

and where much of the ecosystem’s composition, structure,

Directive (RED) 	for renewable energy production shares. The most recent

and ecological function remain present or are expected toversion is the Renewable Energy Directive (EU) 2018/2001,

regenerate naturally or by management for ecological resto-

which establishes a binding EU target of at least 32% forration (Source: Afi).

2030.

No-Conversion	Commodity production, sourcing, or financial investments

Residue management	Crop Residue Management (CRM) is a conservation practicethat do not cause or contribute to the conversion of naturalthat usually involves a reduction in the number of passes

ecosystems (as defined by the Accountability Framework).

over the field with tillage implements and/or in the intensity

No-conversion refers to no gross conversion of natural eco-of tillage operations, including the elimination of plowing

systems, which the Accountability Framework specifies as(inversion of the surface layer of soil). This practice is de-the appropriate policy and goal on this topic for companies

signed to leave sufficient residue on the soil surface to re-and supply chains.

duce wind and/or water erosion (Source USDA).

No-deforestation	No-deforestation refers to no gross deforestation of natural

Riparian vegetation	The riparian zone is characterized by both its proximity toforests, which the Accountability Framework specifies as thewater and by the plants and animals present. In terms of lo-

appropriate policy and goal on this topic for companies andcation, the riparian zone is always directly adjacent to a mov-

supply chains.

ing body of water such as a stream, river, or estuary (Source:
https://biologydictionary.net/riparian-zone/).

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FEFAC SOY SOURCING GUIDELINES 2021

Risk exposure 	In this case linked to conversion; is the probability that soy is

Sustainability map	A freely available online platform managed by ITC, Sustaina-

produced in recently converted natural ecosystems andbility Map offers users access to wide-ranging information

hence conversion has taken place.

related to sustainability initiatives and standards, allowing
businesses to deploy better sustainability practices in inter-

Rotterdam Convention	The Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent

national trade.

Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides
in International Trade) is a multilateral treaty to promote

Swamps	A swamp is an area of land permanently saturated, or filled,shared responsibilities in relation to importation of hazard-

with water. There are two main types of swamps: freshwa-

ous chemicals.

ter swamps and saltwater swamps. Swamps are dominatedby trees. They are often named for the type of trees that

Savannas	A mixed woodland-grassland ecosystem characterised by
the trees being sufficiently widely spaced so that the cano-grow in them, such as cypress swamps or hardwood swamps.

py does not close.
Terraces 	A terrace is a piece of sloped plane that has been cut into a
Second party verification	Verification conducted by a related entity with an interest inseries of successively receding flat surfaces or platforms,

the company or operation being assessed, such as the busi-

which resemble steps, for the purposes of more effec-

ness customer of a production/processing operation or ative farming.

contractor that also provides services other than verification.
Transparency Tool	The filtering mechanism on sustainabilitymap.org/fefac
Segregation 	A chain of custody model in which specified characteristics
of a material or product are maintained from the initial input

where the non-conversion approaches of different soy
standards can be compared.

to the final output Addition of material with different­characteristics and/or grade to the input is not allowed.

Third party verification	Third-party verification: Verification conducted by an inde-

Commonly, material from more than one source contributes

pendent entity that does not provide other services to theto a chain of custody under the segregated modelcompany.

(Source ISO-22095).
Verification 	Assessment and validation of compliance, performance,
and/or actions relative to a stated commitment, standard, or
Soy scheme / Soy standard /Sustainability schemes, standards and certifications are ­Soy certification system 	voluntary, usually third party-assessed, norms and standards
relating to environmental, social and ethical issues, adopted

target. Verification processes typically utilize monitoring data but may also include other sources of information andanalysis.

by companies to demonstrate the performance of their organizations or products in specific areas.

Wetlands	Areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, whether natural or
artificial, permanent or temporary, with water that is static

Soft Commodities Forum 	The Soft Commodities Forum (SCF) is a global platform foror flowing, fresh, brackish or salt, including areas of marine

leading soft commodities companies, convened by thewater the depth of which at low tide does not exceed six

World Business Council for Sustainable Development

metres.

(WBCSD) for the purpose of advancing collective action
around common sustainability challenges.

WHO classification	Classification system to distinguish between the more andof chemicals (1a, 1b and 2) 	the less hazardous forms of selected pesticides based onStandards map

See Sustainability map.

acute risk to human health (that is the risk of single or multiple exposures over a relatively short period of time). It takes

Stockholm Convention	Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants is

into consideration the toxicity of the technical active sub-an international environmental treaty, signed in 2001 and ef-

stance and also describes methods for the classification of

fective from May 2004, that aims to eliminate or restrict theformulations.

production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs).

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