Our investments are governed by a Responsible Investment Code. In addition, we adhere to the IFC Performance Standards and the UN Principles for Responsible Investment (UNPRI). We are looking into certification as a B-Corporation and signing up to the UN Global Compact. We adhere to international accounting standards and have strong anti-bribery and corruption policies and training. We support honest and transparent governance and reporting standards.

In adopting the IFC Performance Standards, we monitor: environmental and social risk management activities; fair labour practices; conservation of resources, preservation of biodiversity and reduction of pollution; community health and safety; and the safeguarding of cultural heritage. We also conduct annual external reviews and publish reports of ESG compliance.

Using the most efficient irrigation methods and automated systems, we minimise water use while increasing yields. Practicing minimum tillage on our farms, and teaching this to smallholder farmers, leads to increased moisture retention in the soil, reducing irrigation needs and enhancing drought tolerance in lower rainfall years. Drought-tolerant seed also has water-use benefits.

We continue to implement clean energy solutions, and solar and hydroelectric power developments to help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and unreliable grids.

We practice and teach smallholder farmers conservation farming methods, including minimum tillage, composting, mulching and crop rotation. These increase soil organic matter which has a carbon benefit and reduces erosion and the need for fertiliser.

Each portfolio company has a corporate social investment programme, donating toward community projects such as schools, bursaries, clinics and agricultural education centres.