In the face of unprecedented challenges, including significant reductions in foreign aid and escalating climate crises, Santiago Gowland, CEO of the Rainforest Alliance, expresses a surprising optimism about the future of global development. He believes that the growing recognition among corporations of the importance of climate-resilient supply chains could signal the dawn of a transformative era for sustainability and development.
A Shifting Landscape for Aid and Development
The current landscape of global development is marred by turmoil, as cuts to foreign aid, climatic catastrophes, and geopolitical tensions converge to threaten the stability of aid-dependent nations. Notably, the cessation of funding by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) contributed to a staggering 23 per cent decrease in total aid from wealthy nations in 2025. Further compounding this crisis, the UK government is poised to slash over 80 per cent of its aid to numerous African nations in the coming years.
As developing countries grapple with these challenges, the impacts are profound. The looming spectre of a super El Niño, combined with rising global debt, has intensified the plight of vulnerable populations. Amidst this backdrop, a right-wing political backlash against climate initiatives, particularly in the United States, has led to a notable reduction in discourse around climate change by multinational corporations and international organisations.
Embracing a New Paradigm of Change
Despite these setbacks, Gowland remains hopeful. He argues that the narrative surrounding sustainability has evolved from a mere focus on metrics and emissions reporting to a broader understanding of the intrinsic value of sustainability within business frameworks. He posits that while the perceived brand value of ‘climate’ may have waned, we are now entering a phase characterised by systemic transformation, where innovative partnerships and investment-driven solutions could yield substantial progress in sustainability and development.
“The development sector must transcend isolated interventions and aim for comprehensive change within entire systems,” Gowland asserts. He emphasises the need for collaboration across industries to enhance climate resilience, improve developmental outcomes, and forge competitive supply chains.
Focusing on Small-Scale Farmers
Rainforest Alliance, established in 1987 and currently operating in over 70 countries, is committed to facilitating this kind of systemic change, particularly among small-scale farmers. This demographic not only constitutes over 60 per cent of the workforce in Sub-Saharan Africa but also continues to produce vital exports for numerous African economies. The iconic green frog seal of the Rainforest Alliance signifies that farms adhering to specific environmental and social standards are engaged in sustainable practices.
Gowland explains the alliance’s theory of change: as consumer demand for certified products increases, farmers gain access to higher prices, which, in turn, drives productivity and allows for more environmentally sustainable farming practices. “Farmers can stop deforestation while enhancing their productivity, thus ensuring that agriculture becomes a net positive for the environment,” he notes. The outcome is not merely theoretical; it is evidenced by successful projects across the globe that demonstrate these principles in action.
Transitioning from Aid to Sustainable Investment
Gowland, who hails from Argentina, advocates for a shift away from traditional aid-dependent models towards leveraging market dynamics to alleviate poverty. He critiques past approaches that, while well-intentioned, tended to patronise communities rather than empower them.
“People are intelligent and capable; they do not require guidance from external sources,” he emphasises. Rainforest Alliance’s annual report indicates a burgeoning movement towards sustainability, with 390 million consumers purchasing Rainforest Alliance-certified products last year. The organisation has also introduced a new “regenerative agriculture” standard, which promotes improved soil health and biodiversity.
Gowland asserts that this model not only fosters agricultural resilience but also generates stable returns for investors, creating a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved. He highlights the importance of foreign aid in supporting healthcare systems and initiating development projects, asserting that while transitioning from aid to investment is logical, such funds are still essential for catalysing economic growth.
The Urgent Need for Supply Chain Legislation
For Gowland, the responsibility of developed nations extends beyond financial support to encompass the introduction of robust supply chain laws that ensure ethical practices among corporations. The Rainforest Alliance has been instrumental in shaping key regulations, including the German Supply Chain Act and the EU Deforestation Regulation, aimed at enhancing corporate accountability in human rights and environmental stewardship.
However, the UK government’s commitment to establishing its own supply chain legislation has faced significant delays. Critics argue that these postponements are detrimental, particularly as rising commodity prices and climate extremes threaten agricultural productivity. Sophia Ostler from the Fairtrade Foundation has voiced concerns that the government’s inaction undermines the urgent need for a Human Rights and Environmental Due Diligence law.
Why it Matters
In an era where climate change and geopolitical instability threaten the fabric of global development, the insights of leaders like Gowland are crucial. The transition towards sustainable practices not only promises to enhance the livelihoods of millions but also addresses systemic issues plaguing agriculture and the environment. As nations grapple with the fallout from aid reductions and climate crises, the imperative to establish resilient frameworks for development has never been more pressing. The actions taken today will shape the future of global sustainability, with the potential to create a more equitable and resilient world for generations to come.
