Kirin Holdings Prioritizes Human Rights in Sri Lankan Tea Sourcing

Kirin Holdings and Sustainable Tea Sourcing Initiatives

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited is taking significant steps toward ensuring a sustainable future for tea sourcing in Sri Lanka. The company is launching a human rights due diligence initiative aimed specifically at tea plantations, underscoring its commitment to ethical practices and high-quality sourcing. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with Mitsui Norin Co., Ltd., focuses on the procurement of black tea leaves used in Kirin Gogo-no-Kocha.

Designated Tea Estates System

To achieve its goals, Kirin Holdings has implemented the Designated Tea Estates System. This system is crucial for securing a steady supply of tea leaves from specific estates known for maintaining high standards. By identifying potential human rights risks and employing tools like on-site audits and questionnaires, the initiative aims to enhance accountability and transparency throughout the supply chain.

Year One Objectives

In its inaugural year, the initiative will focus on four designated estates, with a vision to expand significantly over time. By 2030, the objective is to source 80% of its tea leaves from sustainable production areas. This effort demonstrates Kirin Holdings' recognition of the social challenges faced by workers at these estates, and it reflects its dedication to improving their living and working conditions.

Building on Previous Experience

The Kirin Group's human rights due diligence efforts are not new; they have been in progress since 2018, guided by the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights. The insights gained from previous projects involving coffee beans from Laos, soybeans from China, and various crops from other nations will form the foundation for current initiatives with Mitsui Norin.

Identifying and Resolving Issues

Kirin Holdings is committed to addressing any human rights issues that are identified during this due diligence process. The collaboration with Mitsui Norin aims to develop resolutions that enhance the welfare of workers and the communities where tea is grown.

Commitment to Biodiversity and Environmental Protection

Beyond human rights, Kirin Holdings is also proactive in biodiversity conservation efforts and environmental responsibility. Currently, Sri Lanka is a major supplier of black tea to Japan, providing around 40% of imported tea. Of this figure, about 20% is utilized in their signature Kirin Gogo-no-Kocha. The commitment to sustainability also includes initiatives that support farmers in adopting regenerative agricultural practices.

Health Science Integration and Sustainability

In line with its broader vision, Kirin Holdings integrates health science into its sustainability strategy. The company is not only focusing on the agricultural side but is also promoting health through its diverse portfolio in food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, thereby enriching the quality of life for consumers globally.

About Kirin Holdings

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited has evolved significantly since its inception as Japan Brewery in 1885. The company transformed into Kirin Brewery in 1907, focusing on fermentation and biotechnology. This innovation-driven philosophy has led to growth across its food and beverage sectors as well as its ventures into pharmaceuticals. In 2007, it restructured to become a holding company to efficiently pool its resources and expertise, particularly in health sciences.

The Future Prospects of Kirin Holdings

With the launch of Kirin Group Vision 2027, Kirin Holdings aims to establish itself as a leader in creating shared value. This vision emphasizes achieving sustainable growth in both social and economic aspects through its diverse range of businesses. The Kirin Group is focused on leveraging its technologies and practices to continue fostering meaningful change globally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of Kirin Holdings' initiative in Sri Lanka?

The initiative aims to ensure sustainable sourcing of tea while upholding human rights and welfare in the tea-producing communities.

How does the Designated Tea Estates System work?

This system allows Kirin Holdings to procure tea leaves from specific estates known for their quality and adherence to ethical standards.

What previous experiences does Kirin Holdings draw from?

Kirin Holdings has conducted human rights due diligence across various supply chains, including coffee and soy, applying this knowledge to their current efforts.

What role does biodiversity conservation play in Kirin's initiatives?

Biodiversity conservation is integral to maintaining the environmental balance of the regions from which Kirin sources its materials, enhancing overall sustainability.

How does the company ensure the well-being of workers in tea estates?

The company conducts audits and implements tools to identify and rectify human rights issues, fostering better living conditions for workers in the industry.

About The Author

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