As the world grapples with unprecedented cuts in foreign aid, climate catastrophes, and geopolitical instability, Santiago Gowland, the CEO of the Rainforest Alliance, remains cautiously optimistic. In an exclusive interview, Gowland outlined how the changing landscape of corporate sustainability could pave the way for transformative global development, despite the daunting challenges ahead.
A Shifting Global Landscape
The international development system is currently in crisis. Significant reductions in aid from wealthy nations are straining resources for vulnerable countries. For instance, the closure of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) resulted in a staggering 23 per cent drop in aid from affluent nations in 2025. The UK is also poised to slash assistance to most of its African partners by over 80 per cent in the coming years. Amidst these setbacks, the repercussions of an escalating climate emergency and the impending super El Niño are pushing countless individuals into dire situations worldwide.
Gowland acknowledges the complexities of the current environment, especially as a political backlash against climate initiatives gathers momentum, led by figures such as Donald Trump in the US. He observes that discussions surrounding climate change have notably diminished among corporations and international agencies compared to previous years.
Embracing Systemic Change
Despite these challenges, Gowland believes that the moment presents a unique opportunity for substantial progress. He argues that the narrative of sustainability is evolving, shifting from a focus on mere metrics and branding to a deeper understanding of systemic transformation. “The whole NGO sector is changing, and the corporate sustainability agenda is shifting too,” he asserts. “This is a chance to go beyond incremental changes and pursue actions that can revolutionise entire sectors.”
Gowland emphasises the necessity for collaboration across industries to bolster climate resilience, improve developmental outcomes, and create more competitive supply chains. His vision is clear: to foster partnerships and investment-driven solutions that yield significant benefits for sustainability and long-term business viability.
Supporting Small-Scale Farmers
A core aspect of Rainforest Alliance’s mission is its focus on small-scale farmers, who represent over 60 per cent of employment in Sub-Saharan Africa. These farmers cultivate an array of crops that are vital to many African economies. The Rainforest Alliance’s certification, symbolised by the iconic green frog seal, signifies that these farms adhere to stringent environmental and social standards.
Gowland explains that sustainable practices can actually enhance agricultural output while also benefiting the environment. “Farmers can stop deforesting and simultaneously increase productivity. This not only boosts their income but also supports environmental health,” he says. He cites successful projects globally where these principles have been effectively implemented; the challenge now lies in scaling these successes.
The organisation’s recent annual report illustrates this growth, with 390 million consumers purchasing Rainforest Alliance-certified products last year. The group has also launched a new standard for regenerative agriculture, promising even greater environmental benefits. For instance, La Cumplida, a coffee farm in Nicaragua, has seen remarkable results, including the return of beneficial wildlife that naturally controls pests.
The Necessity of Foreign Aid
While advocating for a market-driven approach to development, Gowland stresses that foreign aid remains crucial for supporting essential services and lifting communities out of poverty. The Rainforest Alliance has initiated its own resilient fund to assist communities affected by recent aid reductions. “We’ve had to engage in climate resilience projects that were initially supported by foreign aid in several countries,” he notes.
Moreover, Gowland believes that richer nations should implement robust supply chain laws to ensure that large companies uphold human rights and environmental standards among their suppliers. His advocacy team has been instrumental in shaping legislation, such as the German Supply Chain Act and the EU Deforestation Regulation, aimed at holding corporations accountable.
However, despite these efforts, the UK government has faced criticism for its inaction regarding similar supply chain laws. With a delay in responding to a review of responsible business conduct, advocates are urging immediate action to address this pressing issue. “Every additional delay exacerbates the loss of forests and places greater strain on farming communities,” warns Owen Gibbons, senior global advocacy manager at the Rainforest Alliance.
Why it Matters
The conversation surrounding sustainable development is more urgent than ever. As foreign aid dwindles and climate-related crises escalate, the need for innovative, market-based solutions becomes paramount. The insights from Santiago Gowland underscore a pivotal moment in global development—one where collaboration and systemic transformation could redefine our approach to sustainability. By investing in resilient supply chains and supporting small-scale farmers, we can not only combat poverty but also foster a healthier planet for future generations. The stakes are high, and our response will determine the future of countless lives and ecosystems.
