In the United Kingdom, grower organizations have been vocal about their concerns regarding the proposed updates to the SMETA 7.0 standard by Sedex, highlighting the challenges in implementing and auditing these changes effectively. Central to their grievances is the requirement for employers to cover the travel and visa expenses of their workers.
A survey conducted by the British Growers Association (BGA) has unveiled the depth of the apprehension within the UK's agricultural sector. Approximately 46% of the growers surveyed are considering either terminating their Sedex membership or seeking an alternative ethical audit framework.
Conversely, only 37% of those surveyed are planning to maintain their Sedex membership and adopt the SMETA 7.0 standard. This contrasts with Sedex's assertions, as 84% of the respondents indicated they were not consulted about the changes to SMETA. The survey, carried out in July 2024, gathered insights from 169 respondents across various crop associations, including British Berry Growers and British Apples & Pears Limited, among others.
Jack Ward, CEO of BGA, stated, "We knew there were serious concerns among growers. But this survey has given the clearest indication yet of what growers may do in the face of several unworkable changes to this audit." He further noted that nearly a quarter of the respondents are contemplating a complete withdrawal from Sedex. Ward emphasized the need for a Defra-funded impact assessment on the employer pays principle before any new SMETA standard is considered.
Source: Hort News