In a collaborative effort initiated in 2017, the SIZA Social and WIETA standards, recognising their shared objectives, have synergised their approaches to offer South African producers a streamlined and efficient means to fulfil market demands necessitating certification against both standards.
AUDITING NEWS
Farming with nature, rather than against it, helps maintain soil fertility, conserve water, and reduce the need for chemical inputs, which can harm both the environment and human health. Sustainable practices, such as crop rotation, organic farming, and using natural predators for pest control, foster biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change.
By offering data-driven insights, digital records help farmers anticipate challenges like climate change and pest outbreaks, enabling them to take proactive measures to minimise risks and maintain farm resilience. Embracing digital solutions is essential for farmers aiming to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.
Sometimes, forming or structuring a worker committee can be challenging. With this training, SIZA will provide guidelines on compiling and implementing an influential worker committee. The training is aimed at management, but it is advised that the members of the worker committee should attend the training too.
Despite recent increases in Sedex’s audit upload fees, the negotiated rates for SIZA members remain substantially lower than global rates. This includes a steady membership fee and reduced audit upload costs, which continue to offer financial benefits to SIZA members.
From 01 April 2023 until 31 March 2024, 713 SIZA Social (ethical) Audits were conducted in South Africa on farms and packhouses. These audits were conducted throughout various seasons and included a wide variety of agricultural crops and commodities.
When it comes to understanding or preparing for an environmental audit, it can be a daunting task to think about all the different types of laws and requirements.
Managing waste on the farm involves handling, reducing, and finding new uses for the various types of waste produced during farming and processing. This includes leftover crops, animal waste, and by-products from processing.
Several producers in South Africa use TES’s services to supply labour during peak seasons. It is important to remember that the employment relationship between the employer and the TES is a joint responsibility.