Focus Area

Supporting Sustainability

IFC invests in Agribusiness companies to support environmental & social sustainability by helping the sector reduce its footprint.

As developing country populations grow and incomes rise, food demand will continue to rise disproportionately. Meeting this increased demand with available resources of land and water requires a focus on sustainable production and resource efficiency.

Agribusiness companies increasingly recognize that the sector needs to make sustainable use of land, water, and other key natural resources, while increasing supply to meet market demand. The sector also faces social challenges, including the need to raise labor standards.

IFC seeks commercially viable solutions and helps companies set benchmarks for responsible production in line with industry best practices.

In areas such as sequestering carbon, managing watersheds, preserving biodiversity, and producing renewable energy resources, IFC’s efforts can also help generate new income through environmental services. IFC is also working with clients to strengthen their supply chains by helping small farmers increase productivity and apply appropriate environmental, social, and quality standards.