About Us
Advancing sustainability across the global nut and dried fruit industry.
Who We Are
The INC Sustainability Institute acts as an advisory body, guiding INC members on sustainability matters and ensuring the effective development of the Institute’s activities. It offers expert advice, supports stakeholder engagement, and works to enhance the visibility and recognition of the INC Institute and its Certification Program among key market players.
Our Story
The INC Sustainability Institute is an initiative launched by the International Nut & Dried Fruit Council. Founded in 1983, the INC’s mission is “To drive sustainable and innovative growth in the consumption and supply of nuts and dried fruit worldwide by promoting their health benefits and natural goodness.”
A significant step the INC took in advancing sustainable practices for the industry was the publication of its Sustainability Manifesto, urging the sector to embrace practices that ensure the long-term resilience of the sector. INC Manifesto
Alongside the manifesto, the INC identified five Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) where the industry can make a significant impact.
From this vision, the INC Sustainability Institute was born. It exists to turn commitment into action, providing guidance and resources to help the industry meet these goals.
Promotion of Sustainable Development
Advocating for and facilitating the promotion of the industry’s sustainable development on a global scale.
Implementation and Monitoring
Supporting sustainable initiatives, tracking progress, identifying gaps, and recommending improvements.
Collaboration and Networking
Facilitating collaboration among INC stakeholders with notable sustainability achievements to promote knowledge sharing and explore synergies.
Collaboration and Networking
Facilitating collaboration among INC stakeholders with notable sustainability achievements to promote knowledge sharing and explore synergies.
Sustainable Development Goals
Goal 2
End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.
Goal 6
Ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.
Goal 12
Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns.
Goal 13
Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
Goal 15
Protect, restore and promote sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
Objectives of the Institute
All initiatives of the INC Sustainability Institute are specifically designed for the global nut and dried fruit sector, tailored to its unique challenges and characteristics. The Institute’s objectives are as follows:
Promote Sustainable Growth
To pioneer and advance the adoption of responsible and sustainable practices across the global nut and dried fruit industry.
Develop Key Sustainability Tools
To implement the Institute’s main initiatives such as the Data Hub, Sustainability Certification, and facilitate access to Sustainable Finance, to drive and support sustainable industry growth.
Knowledge Sharing Through the Data Hub
Through the Data Hub the Institute strengthens engagement with industry stakeholders and serves as a central platform for sustainability insights and best practices.
Global Recognition with INC Certification
To position INC members as global leaders in sustainability through the INC Certification, the trusted standard for sustainability leadership within the sector.
Support Innovation and Impact
To support INC-certified companies in accessing sustainability-linked loans, encouraging investment in sustainable initiatives and promoting the long-term growth of the industry.
Co-Founders of the INC Sustainability Institute for Nuts & Dried Fruit
The Co-founders are a distinguished group of industry leaders dedicated to advancing sustainable practices. Alongside the INC, they play a vital role in supporting the institution’s daily operations and offering invaluable insights on areas where progress is essential.
What We Do
Data Hub
The Data Hub is a central repository of information, providing up-to-date insights on the nuts and dried fruit industry’s sustainability initiatives, practices, and scientific research. Exclusively available to INC Members participating in the Certification Program, it offers easy access to a wealth of tools and resources to support their sustainability journey. The Data Hub integrates three key databases, Scientific Studies, Sustainability Programs, and Metrics along with a dedicated resources page for practical guidance and reference.
Certification Program
The INC Sustainability Certification is a B2B program designed exclusively for the global nuts and dried fruit sector. Created by the industry, for the industry, it recognizes the progress companies have already made while providing a clear, structured framework to drive further improvements. Covering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions, the certification helps businesses prioritize sustainability, align with best practices, and meet verified standards.
Financial Services
The INC will seek recognition of its certification with financial institutions to offer exclusive loan opportunities for members who achieve the INC Certification. These recognitions secure preferential terms, making it easier for certified members to access sustainability-focused financing and further support their efforts to advance sustainable practices.
Data Hub
The Data Hub is a central repository of information, providing up-to-date insights on the nuts and dried fruit industry’s sustainability initiatives, practices, and scientific research. Exclusively available to INC Members participating in the Certification Program, it offers easy access to a wealth of tools and resources to support their sustainability journey. The Data Hub integrates three key databases, Scientific Studies, Sustainability Programs, and Metrics along with a dedicated resources page for practical guidance and reference.
Certification Program
The INC Sustainability Certification is a B2B program designed exclusively for the global nuts and dried fruit sector. Created by the industry, for the industry, it recognizes the progress companies have already made while providing a clear, structured framework to drive further improvements. Covering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions, the certification helps businesses prioritize sustainability, align with best practices, and meet verified standards.
Financial Services
The INC is establishing partnerships with financial institutions to offer exclusive loan opportunities for members who achieve the INC Certification. These collaborations secure preferential terms, making it easier for certified members to access sustainability-focused financing and further support their efforts to advance sustainable practices.