Queensland sugarcane growers have achieved a rare global milestone, with the industry’s Smartcane BMP program now recognised by all three leading sustainability benchmarks – VIVE, Bonsucro and ProTerra.
The latest endorsement from VIVE places Queensland sugar ahead of global competitors at a time when major buyers increasingly demand sustainable supply chains. Almost half of the state’s cane area is now managed under the Smartcane BMP framework, with more than 800 accredited farms.
Backed by CANEGROWERS and the Queensland Government, the program has improved environmental outcomes while helping farmers run more resilient and profitable businesses. CANEGROWERS CEO Dan Galligan said the recognition is the result of years of grower effort and international advocacy.
“This confirms what we’ve said all along – Smartcane BMP stands up globally. Now it’s recognised as such, and that creates real commercial opportunities for growers,” Mr Galligan said.
With Coca-Cola already rating Smartcane BMP as a ‘leader standard’ and sustainable shipments reaching markets in South Korea and the UK, Queensland sugar is well placed to meet changing global market expectations.
