In an era where climate change and environmental degradation dominate global discussions we, at Veracruz, have established ourselves as a trailblazer in sustainable almond farming. Our recent Good Practices Report offers a comprehensive look at the company’s journey toward sustainability, emphasizing regenerative agriculture and a strong adherence to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
Founders’ vision: Accountability beyond requirements
Founded in 2017, Veracruz operates with an unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. CEO David Carvalho and Co-founder Filipe Rosa articulate a philosophy that goes beyond producing premium almonds. They aim to harmonize high-quality agriculture with responsible practices. Through transparency, structured governance, and a clear environmental vision, the company invites stakeholders to partake in shaping a sustainable agricultural future.
This inaugural report reflects our initiative to formalize accountability and foster open dialogue, moving beyond mandatory reporting into the realm of proactive environmental advocacy.
Regenerative agriculture
Central to our operations is regenerative agriculture, Our practices enhance soil health, optimize water resources, and bolster biodiversity. With over 1,300 hectares of farmland producing seven varieties of Mediterranean almonds, we’re proud to show how agriculture can be both profitable , as highlighted in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Soil health: The foundation of sustainability
At Veracruz, we treat soil as a living, dynamic ecosystem. the soils have been revitalized through techniques such as:
– No-till farming: To preserve soil structure and minimize erosion.
– Organic matter incorporation: Over 500 tons of organic waste are applied annually, enriching soil microbiomes.
– Enzymatic monitoring: Analyses of dehydrogenase and other enzymes guide nutrient application strategies, aiming for a 1% increase in organic matter over 10 years, as detailed in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
These efforts result in increased carbon sequestration, nutrient retention, and moisture availability, creating conditions that support resilient almond trees and sustainable yields.
Water management: The most precious resource
In water-scarce climates, we pioneer precision irrigation and remote sensing technologies. Employing platforms and drones with thermal imaging, we ensure every drop of water counts. Highlights of our water strategy include:
– Constructing two dams capable of storing 1 million cubic meters of water each one.
-Implementing an approach to nutrient management based in 4 key-pillars (right source, rate, time, and place).
– Cover cropping and mulching to reduce runoff and preserve aquifer quality, as described in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Water analyses confirm Veracruz’s adherence to EU standards, proving the efficacy of our sustainable practices.
Promoting biodiversity for a thriving ecosystem
Understanding that almond trees thrive in biodiverse environments, we at Veracruz integrate nature conservation into our farming model. From preserving native vegetation to installing insect hotels, our initiatives promote both ecological balance and agricultural productivity, as noted in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Habitat preservation
Beyond pollinators, we preserve stone pine forests and natural scrublands, fostering habitats for a variety of species, including several with “vulnerable” or “near-threatened” conservation statuses. Regular ecological assessments showcase the farms as refuges for wildlife, with over 90 plant species and 52 bird species observed in specific regions, as outlined in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Veracruz Almonds: Certified Regenerative Pioneer
In November 2024, Veracruz Almonds became the world’s first almond producer to receive the Certified Regenerative by A Greener World (AGW) certification. This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to regenerative agricultural practices and positions Veracruz as a leader in sustainable farming, a milestone detailed in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Social sustainability – People at the heart of Veracruz
Empowering employees and communities
At Veracruz, the backbone of success lies in our people. Located in a sparsely populated region of Portugal, our company plays a pivotal role in revitalizing the local economy and fostering social cohesion. Veracruz’s commitment to the Social Pillar of ESG is evident through our inclusive employment practices, community involvement, and employee development programs, as featured in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Workforce development
Veracruz employs 46 permanent staff, with 25% relocating to the Beira Interior region to join the team. Beyond direct employment, the company indirectly supports local businesses, from agro-tourism to catering, amplifying our economic impact.
Fair compensation is a cornerstone of our employment strategy. We ensure salaries align with regional standards, providing competitive wages even in an area where skilled labour is scarce. This dedication to worker well-being is reinforced by GRASP (GlobalG.A.P. Risk Assessment on Social Practice) certification, a testament to our exemplary social practices, including workers’ rights, health, and safety, as described in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Governance – Transparency and accountability
Ethical leadership and collaborative decision-making
Strong governance underpins our operations. Led by our two founders, our company employs a robust leadership framework, with departments such as Quality, Technology, Finance, and Marketing operating cohesively to achieve strategic objectives. Weekly cross-departmental meetings foster collaboration, ensuring agile and informed decision-making.
Transparency is a hallmark of Veracruz’s governance. Financial audits by PwC and open sharing of financial data with leadership reinforce accountability. Additionally, the company’s Quality Department ensures compliance with stringent local and international food safety regulations, maintaining consumer trust and product excellence, as highlighted in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Looking ahead – A vision for the future
As the Good Practices Report concludes, we reaffirm our commitment to transparency, innovation, and sustainability. The company’s success stems not only from our advanced farming techniques but also from our respect for the planet, its people, and stakeholders.
Looking forward, we pledge to continue refining our practices, incorporating new technologies, and fostering collaborations with research institutions to remain at the forefront of regenerative agriculture. The mission is clear: to inspire sustainable practices in agriculture and contribute to a healthier, more resilient ecosystem, as emphasized in the Veracruz Good Practices Report.
Conclusion
Veracruz’s journey, as detailed in this comprehensive report, demonstrates that sustainability and profitability can coexist. From regenerative agriculture and biodiversity preservation to social responsibility and carbon sequestration, the company exemplifies the transformative power of responsible farming. Veracruz is more than an almond producer; it is a beacon of hope for the agricultural industry, proving that innovation, accountability, and care for the environment can drive lasting change. If you identify with these values and believe in them as we do, consider becoming our partner and reach out to us!
