Sustainability

Ghirardelli, as part of the Lindt & Sprüngli group, is deeply committed to promoting sustainability throughout its chocolate production. A cornerstone of this commitment is the Lindt & Sprüngli Farming Program, which emphasizes responsible cocoa sourcing while supporting farmers and their communities. Cocoa, being the primary ingredient in chocolate, is sourced in ways that foster sustainable agriculture, improve livelihoods, and contribute to long-term positive outcomes for both local populations and the environment. The program is structured to ensure that every stage of production—from bean selection to finished chocolate—adheres to rigorous sustainability and ethical standards.

Since 2020, all cocoa beans sourced by Ghirardelli (with the exception of Russell Stover products) have been obtained through the Farming Program. The initiative expanded to include cocoa butter in 2021 and cocoa powder in 2022, with the objective that by 2025 all cocoa products—including beans, butter, powder, and chocolate mass—will be sourced through the program or verified sustainable channels. In 2023, the program accounted for 68.2% of cocoa bean equivalents, reflecting significant progress toward this target. The Farming Program operates on four key pillars: traceability of beans, farmer training, investment in farming households and communities, and independent verification of compliance. Over 131,000 farmers are actively engaged, with nearly CHF 30 million invested in 2023 to support sustainable practices, including direct supplier payments.

Beyond agricultural support, the program has a strong focus on education and infrastructure. Since 2008, 50 schools have been built or refurbished, benefiting approximately 9,700 children, and 250 water systems have been implemented, serving around 158,000 community members. Nearly 1,000 field staff work directly with farmers to provide guidance, technical assistance, and ongoing support, reinforcing the program’s holistic approach to sustainability.

Ghirardelli’s broader sustainability strategy also addresses environmental and social responsibilities. The company aims to achieve zero deforestation in the cocoa supply chain by 2025, while progressively eliminating deforestation related to palm oil, soy, and paper-based packaging. By 2025, 80% of raw materials and packaging considered at risk for sustainability will be covered by responsible sourcing programs. In production, Ghirardelli is working to reduce chocolate waste per ton by 50% and decrease municipal water usage by 10% compared to 2019, with an integrated water management plan guiding these efforts.

Climate action is a central focus, with near- and long-term science-based targets set to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across the value chain by 2050. Transparency and responsible communication are emphasized, including refraining from targeting children under 16, providing clear nutritional information, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Human rights, workplace safety, and anti-corruption measures are embedded in daily operations to guarantee ethical and secure business practices. Packaging is also a priority, with a goal for over 90% recyclability by 2025, alongside RSPO-certified palm oil and verified sustainable hazelnuts. Through these initiatives, Ghirardelli continuously refines sourcing, production, and environmental practices to balance product quality, consumer satisfaction, and responsible business operations.