NCBA CLUSA has signed two landmark agreements with Nestlé Ecuador, marking a significant step towards sustainable development. These agreements aim to enhance the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)’s Farmer-to-Farmer program and reduce plastic waste through our USAID-funded Recycling, Adapting, Developing, Adjusting and Renovating (RADAR) activity, aligning with Nestlé’s Cocoa Plan and Plastic Neutrality initiatives.
Alex Serrano, Senior Vice President of International Development at NCBA CLUSA International, and Josué De la Maza, Executive President of Nestlé Ecuador, spearheaded the signing of these agreements, which underscore a commitment to creating shared value through innovative business models that benefit society, the environment and the economy.
The first agreement, known as the “Income Accelerator,” is a four-year initiative designed to boost the income of cocoa farmers’ families involved in the Nestlé Cocoa Plan. This will be achieved through Farmer-to-Farmer activities focusing on entrepreneurship and technical assistance.
The second agreement, called RADAR, aims to advance plastic neutrality by integrating new stakeholders into a Nestlé effort launched in 2021. NCBA CLUSA will facilitate the collection of plastic waste in Ecuador’s Galápagos and Manabí provinces, incorporating circular economy strategies into the municipal solid waste management value chain.
“These agreements reaffirm Nestlé Ecuador’s dedication to environmental and social sustainability, which is crucial for Ecuadorian consumers and families. The Income Accelerator program directly supports farmers and their families, fostering sustainable and resilient agricultural development. Meanwhile, the RADAR project advances our waste management and environmental protection efforts,” said Nestlé Ecuador Executive President Josué De la Maza.
Through this joint effort, Nestlé Ecuador and NCBA CLUSA reaffirm their commitment to economic growth that respects the environment and improves quality of life for the most vulnerable populations.
“Collaborating with Nestlé exemplifies the strength and continuity of our initiatives. This partnership highlights cooperativism as a vital economic and social model, promoting equity, inclusion and sustainable development. By prioritizing community well-being, we generate economic opportunities and strengthen community bonds,” said Alex Serrano, Senior Vice President of International Development at NCBA CLUSA.
This alliance is set to benefit communities by establishing an inclusive and resilient development model that can be replicated in other regions and sectors. Through this joint effort, Nestlé Ecuador and NCBA CLUSA reaffirm their commitment to economic growth that respects the environment and improves quality of life for the most vulnerable populations.