Page Content
Having received VV financing since 2001 for post-harvest expenses, Comon has consistently provided support towards conservation efforts in El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve. Farmers are guaranteed higher market prices through the consolidation of their crops and access to international markets.
THE PROJECT
Comon is an association composed of 141 members from 11 communities in La Concordia, Chiapas. It cultivates 376 hectares of coffee and manages a total area of 767 hectares which include conservation areas. Members are verified under C.A.F.E. Practices in addition to holding Fairtrade and Organic certifications. The organization was founded in May of 1995 and has been a VV client since 2001.
The organization provides many services to its members that allow them to compete at a much more prolific level than they would on their own. Certifications are managed through various systems and further technical assistance is offered to areas underperforming with regards to the very high standards of the organization. Comon helps to commercialize sales through negotiations with international buyers as well as by consolidating the processing and exportation procedures. Additionally, measures are taken to assist with social and environmental enhancement efforts.
THE DEAL
In 2001, Verde Ventures provided working capital to Comon for the 2001-2002 coffee harvest. The contract has subsequently been renewed numerous times to cover further harvesting expenses incurred.
THE BENEFIT
Comon is located within El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve in Chiapas, Mexico. El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve supports one of the largest remaining cloud forests in Mexico; an area that despite only comprising of less than 1% of Mexico’s land area, harbors over 10% of the nation’s biodiversity. The organization aims to protect the natural ecosystems of the area through the avoidance of agrochemical use, prevention of soil erosion, and the implementation of sustainable water treatment systems.
In addition to the environmental benefits, Comon also engages in projects that aim to increase the overall social well-being of the area. Such projects are implemented with various NGOs, buyers, and governmental institutions to provide improvements in things such as living conditions as well as health and educational accessibility. The association also improves economic prosperity through transparent and equitable business practices. These benefits reach not only the organization’s members and families but also assorted individuals throughout the communities in which it operates.