Asociación SAN Sustainable Agriculture Network

The Asociación SAN Sustainable Agriculture Network (SAN) is a global collaborative impact network that brings together diverse nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Its primary focus is on helping farmers, workers, and rural communities thrive by driving positive change along agricultural value chains. SAN's mission is to deliver lasting impact on key areas such as corporate ESG services, landscape management, biodiversity restoration, and collective impact orchestration. Founded over two decades ago, SAN emerged from a coalition of non-profit conservation organizations across America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. The network has significantly improved the lives and production practices of more than 1.2 million farmers worldwide. With over 3.3 million hectares certified, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions, SAN has played a crucial role in transforming agriculture. The organization's concept of sustainability emphasizes the interconnectedness of societal welfare and ecosystem health, advocating for environmentally sustainable, socially just, and economically viable development. Initially, SAN focused on agricultural certification in partnership with Rainforest Alliance. While recognizing the value and benefits of certification, SAN also acknowledged its limitations. As global challenges grew, SAN evolved to better fulfill its mission by moving beyond certification. The organization now collaborates directly with companies, donors, and other entities to accelerate and deepen its positive impact. This shift has allowed SAN to become a more effective partner in driving sustainable agricultural practices and creating value on the ground. SAN's unique approach stems from its origins, where a group of NGOs from different countries united with the conviction that sustainable agriculture could serve as a powerful tool for environmental protection and improving rural livelihoods. The founding members included Rainforest Alliance, Imaflora (Brazil), Fundación Natura (Colombia), ProNatura Sur (Mexico), ICADE (Honduras), FIIT (Guatemala), and SalvaNatura (El Salvador). Since then, the SAN membership has grown to include organizations from around the world, all committed to the shared goal of sustainable agriculture. Today, SAN continues to be a powerful and effective ally for companies, producers, and institutions aiming to advance their sustainability agendas. By providing practical and efficient solutions, SAN helps its partners achieve and monitor their goals, transforming agricultural practices and fostering sustainable development. The network's collaborative efforts ensure that the benefits of sustainable agriculture are realized globally, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future for all.