Biodiversity in the cocoa sector
Despite potential maximum yields of around one tonne per hectare per year, average production stands at just 400 kilograms.
A key reason for this is the lack of biodiversity. Biodiversity maintains soil fertility and protects the soil from erosion. Furthermore, a more diverse plantation not only increases yields but also makes them more resilient to climate change. At the same time, it reduces dependence on a single ‘cash crop’ – one of the main causes of widespread poverty amongst cocoa farmers.