The FSA’s year of growth and global expansion
20th September 2024
Over the past year, the Farm Sustainability Assessment (FSA) has experienced significant growth, solidifying its position as a global leader in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. With increasing adoption across diverse regions, the development of exciting new modules, and strengthened governance, the FSA is rapidly evolving to meet the global demand for sustainable sourcing and supply chains. This growth aligns with the ambitions of SAI Platform’s membership and is driven by innovation and collaboration.
In 2024 alone, the FSA has been verified 111 times, representing 33,895 farms across 13 different countries. A standout achievement this year has been the FSA’s expanding presence in the Global South. In the third quarter of 2024, 24 FSA verifications were completed across a range of countries, including Chile, India, South Africa, Thailand and Mexico, spanning crops from soybeans to almonds. This surge in demand highlights the FSA’s value for both large-scale operations and smallholders farming in often challenging environments. The FSA’s adaptability to diverse farming landscapes continues to make it a preferred choice for driving sustainability worldwide.
To keep pace with evolving sustainability regulations, the FSA is advancing with innovative new modules. Notably a module is under development to help users meet the requirements of the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (EUCSDDD). Additionally, a module is being created to integrate the Regenerating Together Framework with FSA implementation, further supporting farms and businesses to meet evolving sustainability expectations.
The FSA’s growth is also reflected in its governance. Tamás Sarkadi, Group Head of Sustainability and CEE Business Development at Sabater has joined the FSA Steering Committee. His leadership will bring fresh perspectives and valuable insights into efforts to drive sustainability forward.
“I am pleased to join the FSA Steering Committee as the FSA continues to establish itself as a trusted industry solution. I am especially committed to ensuring that small and medium-sized members have a meaningful voice in shaping the future of the FSA and to championing collaboration, within SAI Platform and externally with other likeminded platforms, as we aim to maximise our collective impact.”
Tamás Sarkadi, Group Head of Sustainability and CEE Business Development, Sabater.
As the FSA continues to grow and adapt, it remains committed to fostering sustainable practices that benefit farmers and businesses through innovative solutions that support users in navigating sustainability requirements. With continued community support, the FSA is driving meaningful improvements on the ground.