A new “Ethical Charter” drawn up by two of America’s largest produce associations promises to keep workers safer and ensure humane treatment on farms. But critics say the document is a two-page example of “greenwashing,” light on details and action, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The produce Marketing Assn. and the United Fresh Produce Assn. developed the draft, which “calls for industry players to respect all laws and principles inspired by ‘international expectations,’” since many of the associations’ farms are located in Mexico. “It pledges to create transparent and accessible channels for laborers to communicate workplace complaints. And it commits to integrating social responsibility goals with purchasing practices,” says the Times.
But there’s no mention of audits on farms by trained inspectors or exactly how the plan will achieve its goals. Emily Miggins, a former sustainability manager at Safeway, described the document as “Ethical Charter Lite.” She considers the draft to be a public relations ploy.
Tom Stenzel, president of United Fresh Produce Assn., claims that the charter is still a work in progress and open to comment until Feb. 20.