Sustainable Castor Association Reports Major Improvements in Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable Farming

The Sustainable Castor Association (SCA) has announced significant improvements in major Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) categories for sustainably farmed castor. These findings were presented during the International Round Table Event in Mumbai, where Sphera Solutions shared the results of their comprehensive field study on 10,000 farmers in India's castor-growing region.

Compared to regional averages, farmers who have been educated and certified under the SuCCESS sustainable farming code demonstrated approximately 30% improvements in all major LCA impact categories, as per ISO 14040/44 standards. The assessment covered parameters such as climate change impact, fossil fuel depletion, and water scarcity footprint.

The event, attended by over 100 global delegates, was preceded by a field visit to Gujarat, allowing participants to witness firsthand the impact of the SuCCESS program. Sphera Solutions presented their 2022-2023 field evaluation, which included both certified and non-certified farms. The study confirmed that SuCCESS-certified farms showcased nearly 30% improvements in greenhouse gas emissions, resource use efficiency, and water conservation. These insights will further support the sustainable castor value chain among member companies.

Additionally, a commissioned impact assessment report by TTC highlighted the economic benefits for farmers under the SuCCESS program. The study found that participating farmers experienced a 15% reduction in costs, a 25% increase in crop yield, and a 30% overall rise in income compared to conventional farming methods.

“We are delighted to share these exciting results with our members and downstream stakeholders. These are proven benefits – for the farmers, the industry, and especially for the environment,” said Karin Wagner, Global Category Manager, Direct Procurement at BASF & Chairperson, Sustainable Castor Association.

Abhay Udeshi, Chairman of Jayant Agro and Director of SCA, expressed his pride in the program’s progress. “It has taken more than eight years of dedicated efforts to reach these results. We are energized to bring this benefit to more farmers and global customers. It is a win-win scenario for everyone.”

Prashant Pastore, Head of Water & Sustainable Agriculture Programmes at Solidaridad Asia & Director of SCA, emphasized the broader impact: “The SuCCESS code has demonstrated its ability to enhance smallholder resilience, restore soil health, and secure farmer livelihoods. It proves that industry collaboration with the right intent can yield benefits for all stakeholders.”

Guido M. Dona, Director of Sustainability Strategy at Arkema, reinforced the importance of expanding outreach. “Reaching more farmers is a high priority. We now have the proof to share with them and inform more downstream users.”

The Round Table also provided an opportunity for customers and stakeholders to exchange ideas on the future of the Sustainable Castor Association. New initiatives were introduced, including a jurisdictional study on labor practices.

Jonathan Kaplan, Co-president of Alnor Oil Company Inc & Director of SCA, noted: “Sustainability is gaining traction in the United States, and we are excited to lead responsible sourcing in the castor industry. Speaking with farmers and industry leaders has energized us to continue this push with our customers.”

Steve Tattum, Vice President of Specialty Solutions at Aurorium & Director of SCA, added: “This event has strengthened our commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation. The collaborative efforts and shared vision of attendees have been invaluable.”

The Sustainable Castor Association remains committed to advancing sustainable farming practices, strengthening its global network, and driving positive change within the industry.