Luker Chocolate, a leading Colombian company in sustainable cocoa farming, is at the forefront of efforts to combat deforestation and promote biodiversity conservation. With a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, Luker recently participated in COP16 Colombia to showcase its innovative approaches to climate change, biodiversity conservation, and sustainability.
The 2024 United Nations Biodiversity Conference of the Parties to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, known as COP16, took place from October 21 to November 1 in Cali, Colombia. Luker Chocolate acknowledges the urgent global biodiversity crisis and the importance of conserving and restoring biodiversity, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable land use. The company actively integrates responsible practices into its operations to protect the ecosystems it depends on, aligning with the goals of the Convention on Biological Diversity.
During COP16, Luker engaged in discussions at Casa Humboldt, focusing on how agroforestry systems like cacao farming can contribute to biodiversity conservation. The panel explored the essential role cacao cultivation plays in sustainable land use and environmental resilience, reflecting Luker’s mission to support a healthy, biodiverse planet. Positioned in the Green Zone’s finance and productive sectors district, Luker showcased its sustainability projects at the B Corp Stand, aligning with the Global Biodiversity Framework to connect with potential partners and promote collaborative biodiversity initiatives.
Additionally, Luker Chocolate participated in a high-level event organized by the National Trade Council and ANDI’s National Water and Biodiversity Center. Julia Ocampo, representing Luker, contributed to a discussion on “Target 15: Integrating Biodiversity into Value Chains” alongside industry leaders from Bavaria, Pepsico, WWF, and TNC. The conversation focused on biodiversity integration within supply chains, deforestation prevention, and nature-based solutions.
As a B-Corp certified Colombian business specializing in purpose-driven chocolate ingredients made with the finest quality Cacao Fino de Aroma, Luker Chocolate is renowned for its sustainability commitment. The company collaborates closely with farmers and partners to produce exceptional products while safeguarding the environment. Luker’s mission is centered on driving positive impact throughout the cocoa value chain, prioritizing biodiversity and well-being in its operations.
The UN Convention on Biological Diversity defines biodiversity as the diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all forms of life on Earth. Delegates at COP16 discussed strategies to restore rapidly degrading lands and seas in a manner that protects the planet and respects the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities. A key objective is to fully implement the 30 by 30 Kunming-Montreal pledge, aiming to protect 30 percent of the planet’s lands and waters by 2030.
During the summit’s opening ceremony, Secretary-General António Guterres urged delegations from around 190 countries to “make peace with nature” and strengthen plans to halt habitat loss, save endangered species, and preserve ecosystems. The Secretary-General emphasized the critical need for significant investments in the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) and related funds to achieve its goals and reset humanity’s relationship with Earth and its ecosystems.
Colombia’s Minister of Environment and President of COP16, Susana Muhamad, highlighted the country’s role as a global hub for climate action, bringing together leaders and experts to address the pressing challenge of protecting the planet and ensuring a sustainable future. COP16 in Cali served as a platform for collaboration and innovation in biodiversity conservation and sustainable land use, with Luker Chocolate playing a key role in advancing these critical initiatives.