Comparison of
ProTerra Standard V2.9
and the
RTRS Standard for Responsible
Soy Production Version 1.0
Prepared on behalf of: CERT ID LTDA
29th, August, 2011
Rua Dr Jorge Fayet, 55
Porto Alegre, RS - Brazil
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Table of Contents:
Introduction and Scope
3
1.1. Limitations
3
1.2. Report Structure
3
2.0. Key Aspect of the Standards
3
2.1. ProTerra Standard V2.9
3
2.2. RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production Version 1.0
4
3. Results of the Comparison Between Standards
5
Attachment 1 - Comparison Table
9
3
Introduction and Scope
Argos Consultoria Ambiental LTDA (ARGOS) has been commissioned by CERT ID
LTDA (CERT ID) to undertake a review of ProTerra Standard V2.9 (ProTerra) and
the RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production Version 1.0 (RTRS), referred
herein generically as standards. The main aim of the assessment is to provide
and independent opinion on the differences and similarities of the standards
with respect to its requirements and applicability.
1.1. Limitations
This report is the result of the application of professional judgments. Professional
judgments expressed herein are based on information publically available within
the limits of the existing data, scope of work, budget and schedule and may
result in subjective interpretation. The conclusions stated herein are intended
as guidance and not necessarily as a firm course of action. ARGOS makes no
warranties, expressed or implied, including, without limitation, warranties as
to merchantability or fitness of a particular purpose of the standards object of
this assessment. In addition, the information provided in this report is not to be
construed as legal advice. ARGOS will accept no liability of whatsoever nature
for claims from third parties. It was not part of this assessment the evaluation
of the impact of the application of the standards to an organization in terms of
implementation effort or certification costs nor the differences in approach or
interpretation between the entities certifying on these standards with respect
to, non-compliance, certification procedures, auditing and governance.
1.2. Report Structure
The remainder of this document provides the following information:
•• Section 2 provides a high level summary of the key aspects of each of the
standards;
•• Section 3 presents the results of the comparison between standards
including discussion on their applicability; and
•• Attachment 1 presents a detailed table with the requirements of the two
standards, comparing each individual clause.
2.0. Key Aspect of the Standards
The objective of this section is to provide a high level summary of the key
aspects of each of the standards to enable the reader to understand the context
and applicability of each one of them. Further discussion on the applicability of
each of the standards can be found in section 3.
2.1. ProTerra Standard V2.9
ProTerra is a voluntary certification program for social responsibility and
environmental sustainability developed by CERT ID. It is applicable to all
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agricultural products and their derivatives, and is applicable worldwide. It
also applies to transport, storage, and handling of agricultural products and
to the processing of products into food, feed, and fiber components and
manufacturing of foods, animal feeds, natural fibers, fuel and other non-foods
for public consumption.
The requirements to be met by the applicants are divided in two groups:
Core Criteria that shall be met at certification and maintained throughout the
certification period (one year) and Complementary Criteria. Complementary
Criteria must be met according to an implementation plan agreed between
applicant and certification entity.
Its requirements are deployed from 18 principles as follows:
•• PRINCIPLE 1: Compliance with laws, international accords and the ProTerra
standard
•• PRINCIPLE 2: Responsible personnel policies, labor practices
•• PRINCIPLE 3: Responsible hiring, compensation and benefits practices
•• PRINCIPLE 4: Protection of worker safety and health
•• PRINCIPLE 5: Freedom for workers to organize and form associations
•• PRINCIPLE 6: Effective communication with workers and community and
grievance correction
•• PRINCIPLE 7: Responsible impact on community
•• PRINCIPLE 8: Legal and ethical land use
•• PRINCIPLE 9: Effective environmental management
•• PRINCIPLE 10: Effective management of biodiversity, non-crop vegetation,
and environmental services
•• PRINCIPLE 11: Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) not used
•• PRINCIPLE 12: Waste and pollution managed effectively
•• PRINCIPLE 13: Water managed conservatively
•• PRINCIPLE 14: Greenhouse gasses and energy managed effectively
•• PRINCIPLE 15: Good agricultural practices adopted
•• PRINCIPLE 16: Traceable and segregated chain of custody
•• PRINCIPLE 17: Continuous improvement undertaken
•• PRINCIPLE 18: Correct labeling and logo use
2.2. RTRS Standard for Responsible Soy Production Version 1.0
RTRS is a voluntary certification program developed by The Round Table on
Responsible Soy Association. It is applicable to all kinds of soybeans, including
conventionally grown, organic, and genetically modified. It has been designed
to be used for all scales of soy production and all the countries where soy is
produced.
The requirements to be met by the applicants are not phased in time and where
indicators require monitoring, a baseline is to be established at the time of
5
certification. Monitoring and review of trends or the results is done over time.
Soy producers must commit to a process of continual improvement.
Its requirements are deployed from 5 principles as follows:
••
••
••
••
••
PRINCIPLE 1: Legal Compliance and Good Business Practice
PRINCIPLE 2: Responsible Labor Conditions
PRINCIPLE 3: Responsible Community Relations
PRINCIPLE 4: Environmental Responsibility
PRINCIPLE 5: Good Agricultural Practice
3. Results of the Comparison Between Standards
The difference in the scope of each of the individual standards is a fundamental
issue that should be kept in mind while reading the conclusions of this report.
The standards are fit for different proposes and this explains and justifies the
differences in the requirements between them.
Both standards ultimately aim to accomplish the same objective: contributing
to a more sustainable agriculture.
At the level of the Principles all of the RTRS Principles find direct correlation
with the ProTerra Principles. The opposite is not true since ProTerra has a more
comprehensive and detailed set of Principles. As a general consequence the
deployment of ProTerra Principles reflect in a greater number of requirement and
indicators that cover a more extensive set of issues (several of which are not fully
applicable to an organization dedicated exclusively to soy bean production). It
can be generically stated that an organization certified under ProTerra scheme
meets the requirements of RTRS. The contrary is not true.
Total incompatibility between the standards is noted in the approach of
following topics: use of genetically modified organisms and the approach
to disruption of traditional land uses. There are also large differences in the
approach with which the two standards deal with rainforest deforestation and
conversion of high conservation value areas. For more details please refer to the
discussion under items 2, 3 and 6 below.
The key differences between the two standards are detailed below.
1) Difference in the scope of application. RTRS is applicable just to soybean
production whereas as ProTerra is applicable to all agricultural products and
their derivatives at every point in the food supply chain from farm to consumer’s
plate. To the extent that an organization has a variety of agricultural related
operations (from plantation to processing for example) or of crops, the ProTerra
certification provides a single system capable of assessing and certifying the
sustainability of all aspects of an agricultural and food production operation.
2) Genetically modified organisms. RTRS standard applies to both genetically
modified and non- genetically modified production whereas under ProTerra
genetically modified organisms (GMOs) must not be used.
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3) Land use rights. Both standards have requirements addressing the legal
and customary rights of traditional land users. ProTerra however considers that
the conversion of land use that disrupts traditional uses is not allowed and
that compensation measures are not sufficient, because such land conversion
directly results in the loss of a way of life and typically fails to reach the actual
affected parties. RTRS, in contrast, accepts compensation based on free, prior
and informed and documented consent of traditional land users where rights
have been relinquished. Furthermore RTRS allows certification even though
there may be unresolved land disputes (“If there is litigation in process, while this
is sub judice this will not prejudice access to certification provided that guidance
provided by the judge is followed”). ProTerra requires land disputes to be resolved
before certification can be awarded.
4) Products traceable and segregated. ProTerra has requirements and indicators
to trace products back to the farm including record keeping requirements. No
such provision exists under the RTRS production standard, although the RTRS
chain of custody standard provides limited traceability and segregation.
5) Correct labeling and logo use. ProTerra has requirements and indicators
linked to labeling of all retail and non-retail packaging allowing for traceability
back through all links in the chain of custody. No such provision exits under
RTRS, because RTRS is not a consumer-facing certification program.
6) Biodiversity. ProTerra has border requirements about protection of
biodiversity including the implementation of a plan to maintain and maximize
biodiversity within and surrounding the operation. RTRS limits the discussion of
biodiversity within the farm area through the preservation of native vegetation.
Furthermore ProTerra explicitly requires the need to compensate for land
previously cleared of native vegetation between 1994 and 2004. Certified
operations must implement compensatory measures to restore appropriate
parts of the cleared areas to permanent preservation reserves. RTRS has a highly
complex system for concluding that land is or is not to be protected or cleared.
This system in many cases is dependent on the decision of an expert while
ProTerra relies on much more clear cut criteria for determining whether or not a
given piece of land is to be protected.
7) Water availability. Certified organizations under ProTerra may not undertake
new initiatives that reduce the availability of water for neighboring communities,
farms or for “traditional” uses.
8) Impact assessment. ProTerra requires a yearly assessment of impacts to the
community and a general environmental impact assessment with an updated
action plan. RTRS only requires assessing social and environmental impacts of
large or high risk new infrastructure.
9) Legal compliance. ProTerra has clear requirements on the compliance with
applicable international treaties and conventions whereas RTRS is silent on this
topic.
10) Record keeping. ProTerra has a more detailed set of requirements for
record keeping including records of: employee training, general personal/staff
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information, legal compliance, health and safety performance, accident statistics
for the operation, complaints and related responsive actions, agricultural
production among others.
11) Social securities. Under ProTerra a social security plan shall be established
for the workers in regions where such a plan is not required by law or regulation.
RTRS has no similar provisions.
12) Health and safety. ProTerra explicitly requires for accident statistics and
records of health and safety performance. RTRS has no similar provisions.
Furthermore ProTerra requires a health and safety program and specifies
compliance while RTRS requires awareness of health and safety matters
and requires a safe and healthy workplace. Health and safety matters are not
organized as programs in RTRS as they are under ProTerra and ProTerra is very
specific with the handling of toxic substances leaving aside other risk situations
(eg equipment/machinery handling). Finally RTRS requires system of sanctions
for workers that do not apply safety requirements.
13) Communications with workers. ProTerra has specific requirements
associated to communication with workers and the need to establish grievance
correction (requirement that does not apply to individual small scale growers.).
RTRS has no similar provisions.
14) Pesticide testing. ProTerra requires that organizations shall test agricultural
produce on receipt for chemical residues (e.g., pesticides) and harmful
contaminants (e.g., mycotoxins), and maintain testing records. RTRS has no
similar provisions.
15) Good agricultural practice. ProTerra requires that water, soil, pests, fertility
and irrigation are managed so as to avoid salinization and desertification of the
soil. RTRS has no similar provisions.
16) Compliance of core suppliers and service providers. Suppliers of core
inputs and services shall be compliant with the ProTerra Standard (as per
definition a core supplier “is a supplier of a primary input to the production
process. For instance, the supplier of soybeans is a core supplier to a soy crushing
plant”). RTRS has no specific requirement for the compliance of supplier /service
providers with its content. General guidance is however provided in a softer
wording.
17) Community relations. RTRS requires collaboration in programs to train the
local population while ProTerra requires broader participation of the certified
organization in local development projects.
18) Waste and pollution management. ProTerra and RTRS are generally
equivalent in the requirements however RTRS restricts the focus to crop residues,
while ProTerra addresses all biological wastes. Furthermore RTRS allows use of
burning as part of the land clearing and land conversion process, while ProTerra
is stricter.
19) Green house gases. RTRS focuses on fossil fuel use, requiring monitoring,
and allows increases in fossil fuel use with justification. In contrast, ProTerra
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requires reductions over time in energy use and especially reduction of all forms
of non-renewable energy, not just fossil fuels.
A detailed comparison, requirement by requirement, can be found in
Attachment 1.
ProTerra has a total of 163 requirements and RTRS 126. All of the ProTerra
requirements find equivalence or general equivalence (different level of details,
guidance or requirements dealing with the same issue with minor difference in
approach) to the RTRS requirements except one (RTRS 5.1.3 – “any direct evidence
of localized contamination of ground or surface water is reported to, and monitored
in collaboration with local authorities”). Thirty three (33) of ProTerra requirements
find no direct correspondence in the RTRS Standard.
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Attachment 1 - Comparison Table
ProTerra V2.9
PRINCIPLE 1 - Compliance with law,
international accords and the ProTerra
Standard
1.1 Certified organizations shall comply with
all applicable national and local laws,
regulations, and applicable international
conventions.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Principle 1: Legal Compliance and Good
Business Practice
1.1 There is awareness of, and compliance with, CERT ID and its inspectors will avail
all applicable local and national legislation. themselves of public records, both
regarding local and national legislation and
regarding case-specific matters relevant to
the applicant operation.
Requirement for legal compliance applies
with regard to all Principles and their
respective Criteria and Indicators.
A list of relevant international accords is
found in Appendix C.
Producers need to have access to
information which enables them to
know what the law requires them to do.
Examples include having a register of laws,
or access to relevant advice on legislation.
Legal compliance should be verified
through:
• checking publicly available data on
compliance where available;
• interviews with staff and stakeholders;
and
• field observations
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent,
ProTerra however includes
the requirement to comply
with international accords
or conventions, while no
equivalent RTRS criteria
exists.
1.1.1 Certified organizations shall implement
procedures to assure consistent compliance.
1.1.2 Applicable laws are being complied with.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
1.1.2 Certified organizations shall document and
retain records of compliance for at least 5
years or longer if required by local law.
1.1.1 Awareness of responsibilities, according to
applicable laws can be demonstrated.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent, the
latter being more specific.
1.1.3 Certified organizations and sub-contractors
shall keep copies of up-to-date national
and local legislation on site or demonstrate
on-line access to these.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard. However
some level of guidance by
RTRS is provided for RTRS 1.1.
1.1.4 If the ProTerra Standard exceeds national
or local regulatory requirements, certified
organizations shall adhere to the ProTerra
requirement(s).
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
1.1.5 If the standards set in international treaties
or conventions exceed local or national laws
of the country where certification is sought,
compliance with these standards will be
achieved over time.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
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ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
1.2 Suppliers of core inputs and services shall
be compliant with the ProTerra Standard.
PRINCIPLE 2 - Responsible personnel
policies, labor practices
2.1 Certified organizations shall not use slave
labor, forced labor, indentured servants,
and their equivalents.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
For instance, for a soy processor’s output to
be compliant with the ProTerra Standard,
the soy, itself, must be produced in
compliance with the ProTerra Standard.
Compliance of the processing plant, alone,
is not sufficient.
Core and non-core suppliers/service
Providers are defined in the Definitions
section of the Standard.
Comments
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
Principle 2: Responsible Labor Conditions
2.1 Child labor, forced labor, discrimination
and harassment are not engaged in or
supported.
This criterion applies to workers supplied
by third parties and contracted labor,
including migrant and seasonal workers.
Note 1: The requirements of Principle 2
apply to both direct employees and to
workers supplied by third parties.
Note 2: The principle applies also to
migrant, seasonal and other contract labor.
In relation to compliance of these
requirements by third parties (Note
1): Operations are expected to have a
mechanism in place which enables them
to adequately verify the compliance of
their service providers. Auditors should
evaluate the verification mechanism of the
operations, to determine whether a
sample of service providers should also be
assessed by the auditors.
Documented evidence of relevant personal
data of workers should be verified (e.g.
sex and date of birth). The data collected
should be locally appropriate and legal
(eg. it may not be appropriate or legal to
ask for the religion of employees in some
countries).
(...)
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent. ProTerra
does not mention child
labor, discrimination or
harrassment here, but covers
these in clauses 2.2, 3.1, and
2.3, respectively.
11
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
2.1.1-2.1.3 Personnel should be free to
leave their work place after their hours of
work have been completed, and be free to
terminate their employment provided that
they give reasonable notice.
2.1.1-2.1.3 Reference: ILO Convention 29
on Forced Labor and 105 on Abolition of
Forced Labor.
2.1.1 No forced, compulsory, bonded, trafficked
or otherwise involuntary labor is used at
any stage of production.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.1.1 No worker will be required to lodge their
identity papers with their employer or
any third party and workers pay, benefits
or other property shall, likewise, not be
retained.
2.1.2 No workers of any type are required to
lodge their identity papers with anyone
and no part of their salary, benefits or
property is retained, by the owner or any
3rd party, unless permitted by law.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.1.2 Accompanying family members (children
and spouses) shall not be required to work
on the farm.
2.1.3 Spouses and children of contracted workers
are not obliged to work on the farm.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.2 Child labor, except when permitted within
national law, shall not be used in certified
organizations.
2.1.4 Children and minors (below 18) do not
conduct hazardous work or any work that
jeopardizes their physical, mental or moral
well being.
2.1.5 Children under 15 (or higher age as
established in national law) do not carry
out productive work. They may accompany
their family to the field as long as they
are not exposed to hazardous, unsafe
or unhealthy situations and it does not
interfere with their schooling.
a. Minimum age for laborers shall be 15
years or the age mandated by Local Law,
whichever is older.
b. In family agriculture, child labor can be
allowed provided that it is not abusive or
dangerous, and does not interfere with the
health, education and school attendance
of the child.
2.1.4-2.1.5 Children and minors (below
18) do not work in dangerous locations,
in unhealthy situations, at night, or with
dangerous substances or equipment, nor
do they carry heavy loads. They are not
exposed to any form of abuse and there is
no evidence of trafficked, bonded or forced
labor.
2.1.4-2.1.5 Reference: ILO Convention 138
on Minimum Age and 182 on Worst Forms
of Child Labor.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent. ProTerra does
not mention work conditions
of the children/minors and
their well being here, but
covers these considerations in
clause 4.2.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent. ProTerra does
not mention work conditions
of the children/minors and
their well being here, but
covers these considerations in
clause 4.2.
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ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
2.3 Coercive disciplinary or control methods
shall not be permitted. This includes
corporal or mental coercion, confinement,
threats of violence or other forms of
physical, sexual, psychological, or verbal
abuse/harassment.
2.1.8 Workers are not subject to corporal
punishment, mental or physical oppression
or coercion, verbal or physical abuse,
sexual harassment or any other kind of
intimidation
2.4 The work week shall be set according to
local and national laws, shall be consistent
with local industry standards, and shall, at
maximum, not routinely exceed 48 hours
per week (not including overtime).
2.5.3 Normal weekly working hours do not
Agreements with Labor Unions take
exceed 48 hours. Weekly overtime hours do precedence over the minimum wages
not exceed 12 hours.
determined by law.
2.5 Overtime shall be limited as specified
in local and national law, and shall not
routinely exceed 12 hours per week.
2.5.1 Overtime in excess of 12 hours is only
allowable if it happens in extraordinary,
limited periods where there are time
constraints or risk of economic loss and
where conditions regarding overtime
in excess of 12 hours have been agreed
between workers and management.
2.5.4 If additional overtime hours are necessary
the following conditions are met:
a) It only occurs for limited periods of time
(eg. peak harvest, planting).
b) Where there is a trade union or
representative organization the overtime
conditions are negotiated and agreed with
that organization.
c) Where there is no trade union or
representative organization agreement the
average working hours in the two-month
period after the start of the exceptional
period still do not exceed 60 hours per
week.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.5 ‘Workers indirectly employed on the
farm’ refers here to employees of service
providers who carry out services directly
related to the production process. The
scope of ‘services directly related to the
production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.5.5 and 2.5.6 Reference: ILO Convention 1
The work time limits are flexible in that
RTRS and ProTerra are
on Hours of Work.
they recognize that there may exist certain
equivalent.
unavoidable periods during the year, during
which employees will be expected to work
substantially longer hours for a restricted
period do time. The extraordinary time
pressure of harvest time is an example of
such a situation. The requirement set down
in 2.5.3 shall be respected during such
periods.
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ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
2.5.2 Overtime shall be compensated as required
by law or according to agreement with the
labor Union or, in the lack of those, at a
premium rate.
2.5.6 Overtime work at all times is voluntary and
paid according to legal or sector standards.
In case overtime work is needed, workers
receive timely notification.
Workers are entitled to at least one day
off following every six consecutive days of
work.
Legal dispositions which allow exchange of
overtime hours for extra days off shall be
taken into consideration.
2.5.3 All overtime work shall be voluntary.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
2.5.5 and 2.5.6 Reference: ILO Convention 1 RTRS and ProTerra are
on Hours of Work.
equivalent, except
that ProTerra requires
that a premium rate of
compensation be paid for
overtime.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.5.4 In all cases workers are entitled to at least
one day off following 6 consecutive days
of work.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.6 The certified organization shall structure,
implement and document a personnel
management program consistent with
and proportional to the needs of the
organization.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
2.6.1 The certified operation shall assign a staff
member to implement and manage the
personnel management program.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
PRINCIPLE 3 - Responsible hiring,
compensation and benefits practices
3.1 All workers, applicants and sub-contractors
shall have equal employment opportunities
and equal opportunities and treatment on
the job. No discrimination shall be tolerated
including: “any distinction, exclusion or
preference made on the basis of race, color,
sex, religion, political opinion, national
extraction or social origin, which has the
effect of nullifying or impairing equality of
opportunity or treatment in employment
or occupation, ... Any distinction, exclusion
or preference in respect of a particular job
based on the inherent requirements thereof
shall not be deemed to be discrimination.”
(Ref: ILO Convention 111, Articles 1 and 2).
Principle 2: Responsible Labor Conditions
2.1.6 There is no engagement in, support for, or
tolerance of any form of discrimination.
There shall be no differences in the
working conditions of any workers due
to employment status (e.g., permanent,
temporary or sub-contracted workers.
However, “equal opportunities” and/or
“equal treatment” shall not necessarily
prevent certain workers from receiving
rewards based on merit or performance,
such as pay bonuses, paid vacation time,
or other enhancements that are above and
beyond the basic compensation due to all
workers in the operation.
2.1.6-2.1.7 Discrimination includes,
but is not limited to: any distinction,
exclusion, restriction or preference based
on race, color, social class, nationality,
religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation,
pregnancy, HIV status, union membership
or political association, with the purpose or
effect of annulling, affecting or prejudicing
the recognition, fruition or equal exercise
of rights or liberties at work, be it in the
process of contracting, remuneration,
access to training, promotion, lay-offs or
retirement.
Divergence in salary is not considered
(...)
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent, except that the
ProTerra requirement for
establishing a social security
plan for workers has no RTRS
counterpart.
14
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
discriminatory when the company has
a policy, which is fully known to the
employees, which specifies different pay
scales for different levels of qualifications,
length of experience etc.
2.1.6-2.1.7 Reference: ILO convention
100 on Equal Remuneration, and ILO
Convention 111 on Discrimination.
2.1.7 All workers receive equal remuneration
for work of equal value, equal access
to training and benefits and equal
opportunities for promotion and for filling
all available positions.
2.1.6-2.1.7 Discrimination includes,
but is not limited to: any distinction,
exclusion, restriction or preference based
on race, color, social class, nationality,
religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation,
pregnancy, HIV status, union membership
or political association, with the purpose or
effect of annulling, affecting or prejudicing
the recognition, fruition or equal exercise
of rights or liberties at work, be it in the
process of contracting, remuneration,
access to training, promotion, lay-offs or
retirement.
Divergence in salary is not considered
discriminatory when the company has
a policy, which is fully known to the
employees, which specifies different pay
scales for different levels of qualifications,
length of experience etc.
2.1.6-2.1.7 Reference: ILO convention
100 on Equal Remuneration, and ILO
Convention 111 on Discrimination.
Equivalent to ProTerra clause
3.1
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ProTerra V2.9
3.2 All workers directly employed, contracted,
subcontracted including temporary
workers shall have an employment contract
written in a language understandable by
the worker and signed by the employer
and employee or the employees’ labor
representatives.
RTRS V1
2.2.1 Workers (including temporary workers),
sharecroppers, contractors and
subcontractors have a written contract, in a
language that they can understand.
Clarity regarding the terms of work
helps avoid conflicts between workers
and management. Formalized contracts
often serve to provide such clarity. The
certification body acknowledges that in
certain circumstances such contracts may
not be practical or absolutely necessary. In
absence of such contracts, employees or
their representatives must declare to the
certification body their satisfaction that
the situation is acceptable without such
contracts being in place. the certification
body will evaluate all such scenarios on
a case-by-case basis to determine if the
objective of this section of the Standard
is met.
2.2.2 Labor laws, union agreements or direct
contracts of employment detailing
payments and conditions of employment
(e.g. working hours, deductions, overtime,
sickness, holiday entitlement, maternity
leave, reasons for dismissal, period of
notice, etc.) are available in the languages
understood by the workers or explained
carefully to them by a manager or
supervisor.
3.3 There shall be a signed work agreement
between the certified organization and the
sub-contractor.
ProTerra Guidance
Contracts typically include: pay rate,
working hours, deductions, overtime
conditions, vacation time, conditionns for
sickness and maternity leave, grounds for
dismissal, period of notice.
RTRS Guidance
2.2 ‘Workers indirectly employed on the
farm’ refers here to employees of service
providers who carry out services directly
related to the production process.
The scope of ‘services directly related to
the production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations.
In those countries where there are no
requirements for formal labor agreements
between worker and employer,
alternative documented evidence of a
labor relationship must be provided (eg.
Registration of employees with social
security / employment agency)
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent. RTRS
mentions details of the
contract here, while ProTerra
mentions these in clause 3.2
No equivalent requirement
in RTRS.
16
ProTerra V2.9
3.4 Certified organizations shall communicate
legal rights, contracts and agreements to
their personnel in simple language and
style that workers can easily understand
and comply with.
RTRS V1
2.2 Workers, directly and indirectly employed
on the farm, and sharecroppers, are
adequately informed and trained for their
tasks and are aware of their rights and
duties.
3.5 The certified organization shall maintain
personnel records for each employee for at
least 5 years or longer if required by local
law.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
The operation shall assign a person or
persons to be responsible for maintaining
and updating such information, and shall
identify that person to CERT ID.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent, except that
training is not covered here,
but in ProTerra clause 3.6.2.
Personnel records will include for each
employee their contract, their current
status and history, job title, salary, training,
hours worked, and vacation time accrued.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
3.6 All employed and/or sub-contracted
workers shall have the necessary
qualifications, experience, meet legal
requirements to fulfill their job.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
3.6.1 Worker job descriptions, including
necessary skills and legal status, and salary
range shall be written and serve as the
basis for the operation’s demonstration that
this requirement is being met.
3.6.2 An ongoing program of training shall be
provided to all workers to ensure that
they are competent to conduct their work
efficiently, effectively and safely.
Comments
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard. This is an
important requirement
because it provides the
auditor information
necessary to assure fair and
equal wages are being paid
for each job.
2.2 Workers, directly and indirectly employed
on the farm, and sharecroppers, are
adequately informed and trained for their
tasks and are aware of their rights and
duties.
If this criterion is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the first year
of certification.
‘Workers indirectly employed on the
farm’ refers here to employees of service
providers who carry out services directly
related to the production process. The
scope of ‘services directly related to the
production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations. In those countries
where there are no requirements for
formal labor agreements between worker
and employer, alternative documented
evidence of a labor relationship must be
provided (eg. Registration of employees
with social security / employment agency)
Equivalent for ProTerra and
RTRS. Education on workers'
rights is covered in ProTerra in
clause 3.4.
17
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
3.6.3 Certified organizations shall maintain
records for all training for a minimum
of 5 years, or longer if specified by local
regulations.
3.7 All workers, regardless of age or gender,
shall be paid a fair, locally representative
wage or salary, which shall meet or exceed
the Minimum or Basic Salary or Wage
(Minimum Wage) legally established for
the region. If no Minimum Wage law exists,
compensation shall at least meet the
typical salaries usually paid in that region
for the equivalent function or job.
ProTerra Guidance
The following information shall be included
in these records: date, time, attendees,
trainer, and content material used during
training.
2.5 Remuneration at least equal to national
legislation and sector agreements is
received by all workers directly or indirectly
employed on the farm.
3.8 Piece work shall be paid at a rate that
assures workers (female and male) will
be capable of earning at least a legal
minimum wage.
2.5.8 If workers are paid per result, a normal 8
hour working day allows workers, (men
and women), to earn at least the national
or sector established minimum wage.
3.9 Wages or salaries and hours worked shall
be regularly and legally paid in the national
currency, documented and recorded.
2.5.2 Deductions from wages for disciplinary
purposes are not made, unless legally
permitted. Wages and benefits are detailed
and clear to workers, and workers are paid
in a manner Convenient to them. Wages
paid are recorded by the employer.
The operation must demonstrate to the
certification body and its inspectors how it
arrived at its determination that it has met
this requirement.
Payment shall be at least monthly unless
workers or their representatives expressly
agree that it can be less frequent, the terms
of which are specified in writing and signed
by said parties.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
‘Workers indirectly employed on the
RTRS and ProTerra are
farm’ refers here to employees of service
generally equivalent, the
providers who carry out services directly
latter being more specific.
related to the production process. The
scope of ‘services directly related to the
production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations.
2.5.5 and 2.5.6 Reference: ILO Convention 1
on Hours of Work.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
Equivalent to ProTerra 3.9.
Deductions for social security or other
legally mandated programs are acceptable.
2.5.1 Gross wages that comply with national
legislation and sector agreements are paid
at least monthly to workers
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.5.5 Working hours per worker are recorded by
the employer.
3.10 Employer shall not deduct from wages for
disciplinary or similar purposes.
RTRS Guidance
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
Equivalent to ProTerra 3.9
criterion and guidance.
18
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
3.11 A social security plan shall be established
for the workers in regions where such a
plan is not required by law or regulation.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
The plan shall include timelines
for implementation, as well as age
requirements for receiving benefits and
other related conditions/situations where
benefits would be available. The impact
of such a social security plan on regular
worker pay amounts shall be specified in
the plan description.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
3.12 All workers, regardless of age or gender,
shall enjoy appropriate, legally compliant
working conditions.
3.13 All workers living on site shall have
appropriate, fairly priced, and safe food,
water and housing.
PRINCIPLE 4 - Safety and health of workers
protected
4.1 The organizations shall have a worker
health and safety program that at
minimum assures compliance with legal
requirements or with requirements of the
Standard as set out below, which ever is
more protective.
Comments
No directly correspondent
clause in RTRS, but general
requirement for compliance
to the law has applicability
here.
2.5.9 If employees live on the farm, they have
access to affordable and adequate housing,
food and potable water. If charges are
made for these, such charges are in
accordance with market conditions. The
living quarters are safe and have at least
basic sanitation.
“Appropriate” includes at least the
following: shelter from the elements;
exclusion of pests; ready access to facilities
for maintaining hygiene; ready access to
water, facilities for food preparation and
eating; clean sleeping and sitting quarters
(including some type of bed), and open
space where workers would be able to
move around freely during non-working
hours.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent. However ProTerra
provides more detailed
guidance
Principle 2: Responsible Labor Conditions
2.3 A safe and healthy workplace is provided
for all workers.
2.3.1
Producers and their employees
demonstrate an awareness and
understanding of health and safety
matters.
Scope and complexity of the program
shall be proportional to the scope and
complexity of the certified organization.
2.3 References: ILO convention 155 on
Occupational Safety and Health; ILO
Convention 184 on Safety and Health in
Agriculture; ILO Recommendation 192 on
Safety and Health in Agriculture.
The means of verification used should be
appropriate to the size and scale of the
operation. E.g. (2.3.1) For operations with
permanent employees there should be
a documented health and safety policy.
For small farms this can be demonstrated
through verbal explanations.
General equivalence between
ProTerra and RTRS, but with
different emphasis. ProTerra
requires a health and safety
program and specifies
compliance while RTRS
requires awareness of health
and safety matters and
requires a safe and healthy
workplace. Health and safety
matters are not organized as
programs in RTRS
19
ProTerra V2.9
4.1.1 The certified organization shall conduct
a risk assessment of their operation and
use the results of that study to guide
mitigation of risks and development and
implementation of accident and emergency
systems and procedures.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
2.3.2 Relevant health and safety risks are
identified, procedures are developed to
address these risks by employers, and these
are monitored.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
2.3.6 Accident and emergency procedures exist
and instructions are clearly understood by
all workers.
Equivalent to ProTerra 4.1.1
4.1.2 Medical treatment/first aid shall be readily
and quickly available if and when accidents
or other emergencies occur on the worksite.
2.3.7 In case of accidents or illness, access to
first aid and medical assistance is provided
without delay.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
4.1.3 The certified organization shall monitor and
ensure compliance with its worker safety
and health program and keep records of
health and safety performance, including
accident statistics for the operation.
2.3.2 Relevant health and safety risks are
Accident statistics: accidents per hours
identified, procedures are developed to
worked and accidents per employee.
address these risks by employers, and these
are monitored.
Generally equivalent
however ProTerra explicitly
requires the keeping of
accidents statistics and
records of health and safety
performance.
2.3.3 Potentially hazardous tasks are only carried The operation shall maintain
out by capable and competent people who documentation identifying employees
do not face specific health risks.
excluded from these activities and require
sub-contractors to do the same.
The certification body may allow for the
minimum/maximum ages to be lower/
higher than 18/60 in cases where national
legislation and/or other legal permitting
procedures are in effect, and provided there
are measures in place to adequately protect
the health and safety of such workers.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent, the
latter being more specific in
identifying specific classes of
vulnerable workers who must
be protected.
4.2 Conduct of hazardous tasks, including
the application or handling of pesticides
(insecticides, fungicides, and herbicides) for
pests, diseases and non-crop plants, shall
be carried out by qualified and properly
trained workers, and shall not be permitted
by the following types of employees,
including sub-contracted workers: Persons
under the age of 18 or above the age of 60
- Pregnant or nursing women - Persons
with mental illness - Persons with chronic,
hepatic, renal, or respiratory diseases Persons with other health problems or
limitations that would make them more
vulnerable to hazardous conditions
20
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
4.2.1 Certified organizations shall provide all
required personal protection equipment
(PPE) and clothing.
2.3.4 Adequate and appropriate protective
equipment and clothing is provided and
used in all potentially hazardous operations
such as pesticide handling and application
and mechanized or manual operations.
4.2.2 Wearing of appropriate personal protection
equipment (PPE) and clothing is mandatory
during handling and application of toxic
substances or conduct of other hazardous
tasks.
2.3.5 There is a system of warnings followed by
legally-permitted sanctions for workers
that do not apply safety requirements.
4.3 Workers shall be trained in health and
safety on the job, and particularly those
workers handling pesticides and other toxic
substances or hazardous equipment shall
be trained to store, apply, and dispose of
pesticides and other toxic substances and
to operate hazardous edquipment safely, as
specified in the manufacturer’s instructions
and legal requirements.
2.2.3 Adequate and appropriate training
and comprehensible instructions on
fundamental rights at work, health and
safety and any necessary guidance or
supervision are provided to all workers.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent. RTRS
however requires system
of sanctions for workers
that do not apply safety
requirements
In addition to conducting all aspects of
their work safely, all pesticide use and
disposal shall be handled in a manner
that protects the worker and others in
the vicinity as well as the environment.
Examples of additional measures that may
be taken is the marking of areas where
pesticides are stored, handled, or used.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
However ProTerra is very
specific with the handling
of toxic substances leaving
aside other risk situations
(eg equipment/machinery
handling).
4.3.1 Certified organizations shall maintain
records for all health and safety training for
a minimum of 5 years, or longer if specified
by local regulations.
The following information shall be included
in these records: date, time, attendees,
trainer, and content material used during
training.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
4.3.2 Certified organizations shall employ
qualified personnel to instruct workers
in safety and health on the job, and
especially in the safe handling, storage, and
application of pesticides and other toxic
materials and the safe conduct of other
hazardous tasks.
Certified organizations shall ensure that
instructors have necessary technical
knowledge and legal qualifications.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
21
ProTerra V2.9
4.4 Certified organizations will, at least, comply
with regulations regarding maternity leave.
4.4.1 Workers taking maternity leave have the
right to resume their work under the same
conditions existing before taking leave,
without discrimination, deduction of wages
or loss of seniority.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
2.5.7 Salaried workers have all entitlements and
protection in national law and practice
with respect to maternity. Workers taking
maternity leave are entitled to return to
their employment on the same terms and
conditions that applied to them prior to
taking leave and they are not subject to
any discrimination, loss of seniority or
deductions of wages.
RTRS Guidance
2.5 ‘Workers indirectly employed on the
farm’ refers here to employees of service
providers who carry out services directly
related to the production process. The
scope of ‘services directly related to the
production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations.
4.4.2 In locations where specific regulations do
not cover the topics, reasonable maternity
leave, and leave for health treatment shall
be established.
PRINCIPLE 5 - Freedom for workers to
organize and form associations
5.1 All workers and share-croppers shall be
allowed to form and join trade unions or
other collective bargaining organizations.
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
Principle 2: Responsible Labor Conditions
2.4 There is freedom of association and
the right to collective bargaining for all
workers.
2.4.1 There is the right for all workers and
sharecroppers to establish and/or join an
organization of their choice.
2.4.3 All workers have the right to perform
collective bargaining.
Evidence must be provided demonstrating
that the certified organization respects
the rights of all personnel to form and join
trade unions or other collective bargaining
organizations in accordance with the law.
Not applicable to small-holder/family
farmers.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
2.4.1 Reference: ILO Convention 87 on
Freedom of Association and Protection of
the Right to Organize.
2.4.3 Reference: ILO Convention 98 on Right
to Organize and Collective Bargaining.
22
ProTerra V2.9
5.1.1 Certified organizations shall inform all
workers of their rights of association and of
negotiation.
RTRS V1
Workers, directly and indirectly employed
on the farm, and sharecroppers, are
adequately informed and trained for their
tasks and are aware of their rights and
duties.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
These shall be posted in written form
where they can be readily read by all
employees in a language/terminology that
workers can readily understand.
‘Workers indirectly employed on the
farm’ refers here to employees of service
providers who carry out services directly
related to the production process. The
scope of ‘services directly related to the
production process’ will be defined by
national interpretations. In those countries
where there are no requirements for
formal labor agreements between worker
and employer, alternative documented
evidence of a labor relationship must be
provided (eg. Registration of employees
with social security / employment agency)
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.1.2 Functions of collective bargaining
organizations shall not be impeded by
certified organizations.
2.4.2 The effective functioning of such
organizations is not impeded.
Representatives are not subject to
discrimination and have access to their
members in the workplace on request.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.1.3 Representatives of collective bargaining
organizations shall have access to their
members at the workplace.
2.4.4 Workers are not hindered from interacting
with external parties outside working hours
(e.g. NGOs, trade unions, labor inspectors,
agricultural extension workers, certification
bodies).
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent. ProTerra
requires that the certified
organization allow collective
bargaining organizations
access to workers on the
worksite, while RTRS does not
require this but only requires
the certified organization
to allow access outside of
working hours. Although
RTRS 2.4.4 requires access on
request.
2.4.2 The effective functioning of such
organizations is not impeded.
Representatives are not subject to
discrimination and have access to their
members in the workplace on request.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.1.4 Workers shall not be penalized for
interacting with union representatives or
other organizations.
5.1.5 There shall be no discrimination by
management or workers between
unrepresented workers and members of
labor or trade unions.
ProTerra V2.9
PRICIPLE 6 - Effective communication with
workers and community and grievance
correction
6.1 Certified organizations shall establish and
document an effective and timely system
of communication with all workers and
with the local communities, traditional
land users and other concerned or affected
parties and an effective and timely system
to receive, investigate and respond to all
complaints from these parties.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
This requirement does not apply to
individual small scale growers.
This system shall function at the worksites
and in the communities linked to certified
organizations.
Communication channels need to use
local languages and appropriate mediums
(eg. the internet is not an appropriate
mechanism for communication with
communities that have no access to the
internet).
The communication requirements must
be adequate to identify any disputes with
traditional land users as referred to in
Criterion 3.2
Where people on or adjacent to the
property are demonstrated to be illegal
(for example illegal squatters), producers
should try to engage in communication,
but they are not obliged to maintain a
dialogue.
Local communities may be represented
by legitimate representatives in
communication or negotiation or in audit
situations. Where this is the case, this does
not exempt the producer or the auditor
from the responsibility of communicating
with other members of the community,
especially groups such as the poor, illiterate,
youth, women or indigenous groups.
In the case of small farms documented
evidence is not required and is substituted
by verbal evidence.
It is important to include interviews with
members of the community to evaluate the
existence of the communication channels
and their appropriateness.
ProTerra requires an effective
communication and
grievance resolution system
with respect to both workers
and the community, while
the RTRS requirement applies
only to the community and
not to workers. With respect
to the community, RTRS and
ProTerra requirements are
equivalent, although RTRS
provides more detail.
(...)
Principle 3: Responsible Community
Relations
3.1 Channels are available for communication
and dialogue with the local community on
topics related to the activities of the soy
farming operation and its impacts.
3.1.2 The channels adequately enable
communication between the producer and
the community.
3.1.3 The communication channels have been
made known to the local communities.
23
24
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
3.3 A mechanism for resolving complaints and
grievances is implemented and available
to local communities and traditional land
users.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Note: For group certification - the
(...)
complaints and grievances mechanism can
be managed by the group manager and
records of complaints and grievances can be
maintained at the group level. Interviews
with members of local communities and
their representatives are important in
verifying compliance with this criterion.
3.3.1 The complaints and grievances mechanism
has been made known and is accessible to
the communities.
3.3.2 Documented evidence of complaints and
grievances received is maintained.
3.3.3 Any complaints and grievances received are
dealt with in a timely manner.
6.1.1 Complaints, responsive actions, and
outcomes shall be documented and records
maintained for 5 years or more if required
by local law.
6.1.2 The system shall include a mechanism
that allows workers and community
members to lodge complaints in a manner
anonymous to the management of the
certified organization (if anonymity is
desired), yet also allows verification of the
validity of the complaints.
3.1.1 Documented evidence of communication
channels and dialogue is available.
Auditor will look into the number of
complaint resolution processes and
verify the number of effective resolutions
achieved.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
One example of such a system would be
to appoint an independent ombudsman
who receives complaints, assesses validity
and sets in motion appropriate processes
for correction/redress. The procedures for
electing/appointing the ombudsman must
be transparent and must equitably include
workers, community members or their
representatives in the appointment process.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
25
ProTerra V2.9
PRINCIPLE 7 - Responsible impact on
community
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Principle 3: Responsible Community
Relations
7.1 Certified organizations (Levels I, II and III)
shall conduct and document an assessment
of their impact on the local community
and, if present, indigenous people. This
shall be updated yearly.
The requirements in this section do not
apply to small scale individual growers,
but do apply to their organizations, such as
cooperatives.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
7.2 The results shall be incorporated in
planning activities and operational
procedures.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
7.3 Certified organizations shall demonstrate
support for local community development
projects.
3.4.2 There is collaboration with training
programs for the local population.
RTRS requires collaboration
in programs to train the local
polulation while ProTerra
requires broader participation
of the certified organization
in local development
projects.
7.4 Certified organizations shall contribute
to the local economy by preferentially
offering local businesses the opportunity
to supply goods and services that meet the
organizations’ specifications.
3.4.3 Opportunities for supply of goods and
services are offered to the local population.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
3.4 Fair opportunities for employment and
provision of goods and services are given to
the local population.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
7.5 Job opportunities shall be made available
first to qualified members of the local
community.
3.4.1 Employment opportunities are made
known locally.
Note: Not applicable for small farms.
3.4.1 Evidence may include records kept of
the proportion of local employees
26
ProTerra V2.9
PRINCIPLE 8 - Land use legal and ethical
8.1 Land used by the certified organization
does not impair the legal or customary
rights of other users, including indigenous
communities.
8.1.1 The certified organization shall provide
documented evidence that their land use
does not impair customary rights of other
users.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Land use conversion that disrupts
traditional land use is not allowed under
the ProTerra Standard. Therefore there is no
need for ProTerra to contain a requirement
for "prior informed consent" of indigenous
peoples or small holders and no need for a
rerquirement for compensate for disruption
of traditional land use because disruption
of traditional land use is simply forbidden
in ProTerra. It is the observation that when
traditional land use is disrupted, effforts to
compensate for this disruption frequently
fail to reach the actual affected parties,
and is consistently insufficient to justly
compensate for such disruption, which, in
essence, represents the loss of a way of life.
When applying for certification the
producer will identify traditional land
users. Traditional land users will provide
reasonable proof that they have been
exercising use or access rights on the area
of the property over the 10 years prior to
May 2009 (the ‘cut-off date’) . In the case
of traditional indigenous communities,
articles 14-18 of ILO convention 169 also
apply.
Traditional land users may be represented
by legitimate representatives in
communication, negotiation or audit
situations. Where this is the case, this does
not exempt the producer or the auditor
from the responsibility of communicating
with other members of the community.
Not equivalent. Both
standards have requirements
addressing the legal
and customary rights of
traditional land users but
adopt totally different
approaches. Therefore on
the basis of the different
approaches there is no
equivalence between the
requirements. RTRS allows
disruption of traditional
land use as long as
someone is paid money
as compensation, while
ProTerra forbids all traditional
land use disruption (see
ProTerra guidance for
additional commentary on
the implications of this). In
addition, it should be noted
that RTRS does not require
resolution of land disputes
before certification is granted
to the operator, while
ProTerra does.
Principle 1: Legal Compliance and Good
Business Practice
Principle 3: Responsible Community
Relations
3.2 In areas with traditional land users,
conflicting land uses are avoided or
resolved.
3.2.2 Where rights have been relinquished by
traditional land users there is documented
evidence that the affected communities are
compensated subject to their free, prior,
informed and documented consent.
27
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
8.1.2 Land use in all cases shall not interfere
with the agricultural production systems
of neighbors, so as to allow coexistences of
different production systems.
5.10 Appropriate measures are implemented
to allow for coexistence of different
production systems.
8.2 Land use by the certified organization is
legal, either through ownership, lease, or
other appropriate agreement.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
5.10.1 Measures are taken to prevent interference
in production systems of neighboring areas.
1.2 Legal use rights to the land are clearly
defined and demonstrable.
Note: Land use rights of traditional land
users are considered in Criterion 3.2 which
should be cross-referenced with this
criterion.
1.2.1 There is documented evidence of rights to
use the land (e.g. ownership document,
rental agreement, court order etc.).
8.2.1 The certified organization shall provide
evidence that land use is legal in the
form of ownership deed, lease, or other
appropriate legal agreement.
8.2.2 Land rights disputes shall be resolved
before certified status can be awarded.
3.2 In areas with traditional land users,
conflicting land uses are avoided or
resolved.
3.2.1 In the case of disputed use rights, a
comprehensive, participatory and
documented community rights assessment
is carried out.
4.4.2 There is no conversion of land where
there is an unresolved land use claim by
traditional land users under litigation,
without the agreement of both parties.
RTRS allows certification
even though there may be
unresolved land disputes.
ProTerra requires land
disputes to be resolved before
certification can be awarded.
RTRS disallows certification
of disputed land only if there
is active litegation. Since
displaced indigenous people
and small-holders are often
not able to mount formal
legal action, the requirement
for formal legal action creates
a very large loophole that
favors those who want to
convert lands.
28
ProTerra V2.9
PRINCIPLE 9 - Effective environmental
management program
9.1 Certified organizations shall perform a
comprehensive social and environmental
impact assessment (SEIA) to identify
potentially harmful or damaging impacts of
the operation and to define an action plan
to address these impacts.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Principle 4: Environmental Responsibility
4.1 On and off site social and environmental
impacts of large or high risk new
infrastructure have been assessed and
appropriate measures taken to minimize
and mitigate any negative impacts.
This plan will take into account the
sustainability of the environment, wildlife
and endangered species, impact on the
local population and indigenous people.
Note: For group certification – this also
applies to large new infrastructure projects
developed by the entity holding the group
certificate, where the infrastructure is used
by certified group members or the certified
If the organization does not have expertise soy they produce. The assessment should
in house to effectively conduct the SEIA,
be appropriate to the scale of the operation
guidance from government, academic or
and the new infrastructure. Where there are
other recognized experts shall be accessed. existing national requirements for impact
assessments which are adequate to meet
As part of their Action Plan, Certified
this criterion (identified by the NTG) these
organizations shall develop and implement are followed. Where not, the auditors must
initiatives to maintain and increase
verify that an adequate process has been
biodiversity around their facilities.
followed. Where no adequate legislation
Examples of such initiatives include the
exists and national interpretation is not
following:
available, the Equator Principles’ Social
a. Creation and maintenance of vegetation and Environmental assessment procedure
corridors to link areas of natural vegetation. should be followed.
b. Conversion of unproductive areas into
conservation areas.
Plots that have been farmed with practices
that have led to low- or non-productivity
may be reclaimed as farmland provided
they are stewarded in a manner that
recreates fertility and restores biodiversity.
The SEIA will make use of the
communication and grievance rectification
mechanisms described under Principle 6
to assure that the SEIA process is known to
all relevant parties and these are engaged
in a transparent and effective manner that
assures negative impacts of the operation
are minimized and mitigated and positive
maximized.
Not equivalent. RTRS
only requires a social and
environmental assessment
prior to the establishment
of a large or high risk new
infrastructure (4.1.1 - 4.1.4).
ProTerra requires a social and
environmental assessment of
the whole operation.
(...)
29
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
4.1.1 A social and environmental assessment is
carried out prior to the establishment of
large or high risk new infrastructure.
Comments
(...)
4.1.2 The assessment is carried out by someone
who is adequately trained and experienced
for this task.
4.1.3 The assessment is carried out in a
comprehensive and transparent manner.
9.2 Certified organizations shall carry out the
action plan specified in 9.1 and will review
and revise it annually prior to the ProTerra
inspection, including consideration of new
projects, assessing progress, revising and
setting new objectives, as appropriate.
PRINCIPLE 10 - Effective management of
biodiversity, non-crop vegetation, and
environmental services
10.1 Areas of native vegetation and other
high conservation value areas, cleared
after 2004 cannot not be converted into
agricultural areas or used for industrial or
other commercial purposes, in particular
the following:
· Primary Forests (i.e. rainforests)
· Riparian Vegetation
· Wetlands
· Swamps
· Floodplains
· Steep slopes
· Other high conservation value areas
10.1.1 Certified organizations shall adhere to
governmental regulations and international
(...)
4.1.4 Measures to minimize or mitigate the
impacts identified by the assessment are
documented and are being implemented.
ProTerra will audit annually the progress
and implementation of the environmental
action plan. This plan is expected to
become more concrete and comprehensive
over time.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally comparable.
An example of a prohibited industrial use
of resources would be timber cut for the
purposes of drying grain.
RTRS is significantly less
stringent regarding this
principle.
1. RTRS has a cutoff of 2009
for clearling of native forest,
while ProTerra’s general
cutoff is 1994 but accepts
land that has been cleared
up to 2004, if compensatory
environmental measurees
have been taken.
2. Whereas ProTerra forbids
land conversion in the
Amazon biome and uses a
strict GPS based approach
to defining the Amazon
biome, the RTRS uses a more
subjective system
(...)
Principle 4: Environmental Responsibility
4.4 Expansion of soy cultivation is responsible.
4.4.1 After May 2009 expansion for soy
cultivation has not taken place on land
(...)
Note: This criterion will be revised after
June 2012 if RTRS-approved maps and
system are not available.
4.4.1.2 c) Options 1 and 2 only apply for
For certification decisions, the
areas which are not native forest (as stated
Amazon biome is defined according to
in 4.4.1.2 b and c). Therefore native forest
internationally recognized GPS coordinates. cannot be deforested even if an official land
use map (Option 1) permits this.
4.4.1.2 c) Option 1: Maps used for this
purpose have been subject to adequate and
effective public consultation.
4.4.1.2 c) Option 2: HCVA assessment
should be undertaken using the existing
guidance e.g. HCV Toolkit. The assessors
should be recognized by RTRS or the HCV
network.
Definition of native forest: areas of native
vegetation of 1ha or more with canopy
(...)
30
ProTerra V2.9
(...)
conventions that pose additional limits on
conversion of native vegetation to
agricultural or other commercial purposes
must also be heeded.
RTRS V1
(...)
cleared of native habitat except under the
following conditions:
4.4.1.1 It is in line with an RTRS-approved
map and system (see Annex 4.) or
4.4.1.2 Where no RTRS-approved map and
system is available:
a) Any area already cleared for agriculture
or pasture before May 2009 and used for
agriculture or pasture within the past 12
years can be used for soy expansion, unless
regenerated vegetation has reached the
definition of native forest (see glossary).
b) There is no expansion in native forests
(see glossary)
c) In areas that are not native forest (see
glossary), expansion into native habitat
only occurs according to one of the
following two options:
Option 1. Official land-use maps such as
ecological-economic zoning are used and
expansion only occurs in areas designated
for expansion by the zoning. If there are no
official land use maps then maps produced
by the government under the Convention
on Biological Diversity (CBD) are used, and
expansion only occurs outside priority areas
for conservation shown on these maps.
Option 2. An High Conservation Value Area
(HCVA) assessment is undertaken prior to
clearing and there is no conversion of High
Conservation Value Areas. Note: Where
neither official land use maps nor CBD
maps exist, Option 2 must be followed.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
cover of more than 35 % and where some
trees (at least 10 trees per hectare) reach
10m in height (or are able to reach these
thresholds in situ (ie. in that soil/climate
combination). Examples of native forests
include Amazon, Mata Atlantica, Yungas,
Chiquitano, forest areas of NE China
Data capture requirements for future
Payment for Environmental Services (PES)
schemes: The date of registration of the
producer for certification is recorded by the
certification body. During the certification
audit, the area and type of vegetation of
all voluntary reserves of native vegetation
(above the legal requirement) are recorded.
Following certification, details of the date
of registration for certification and the
area and type of vegetation of voluntary
reserves are added to an RTRS register.
When an RTRS PES scheme is developed,
payments are available retroactively to the
date of registration for certification to all
producers on the register.
(...)
for determining if land
constitutes native habitat
or native forest which is
based on the judgement of
“experts.”
3. RTRS allows clearing of
other native habitat based
on land use mapping that
is established by local
government and is subject
to influence by interested
parties or based on a HCVA
analysis, which is, again,
subjective because it is
dependent on the judgement
of “experts.”
4. RTRS specifies that
the “experts”“should be
recognized by RTRS or the
HCV network.” However, RTRS
has no system for qualifying
such experts and the HCV
website simply has a list of
self-nominated individuals
and state they take no
responsibility for evaluating
their credentials.
31
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
10.1.2 In all cases where clearing of HCVAs has
already been done after 1994, certified
operations must implement compensatory
measures to restore appropriate parts of
the cleared areas according to national
law, or in cases where national law does
not address this point, the Environmental
Management Plan shall define a program
of compensatory measures that are
relevant to the local ecosystem and assure
the ability of the ecosystem to continue to
deliver essential environmental services.
10.2 Part of the environmental impact
assessment described in 9.1 will be to
develop, document, and implement a plan
to maintain and maximize biodiversity
within and surrounding the operation,
which will be updated yearly.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Two aspects of the compensatory measures
must be considered:
i. The type and place of restoration – areas
as described in section 10.1 above should
be re-vegetated with native species
appropriate to the zone in question,
preferably to reproduce as much as possible
what was originally destroyed.
ii. The percentage of the originally cleared
area that must be restored – this will
depend on local, regional, national, and/
or international laws and/or conventions as
applicable to the biome in question.
For example certified organizations will
protect areas that are:
(a) designated by law or by the relevant
competent authority for nature protection
purposes; or
(b) designated for the protection of rare,
threatened or endangered ecosystems
or species recognized by international
agreements or included in lists drawn up
by intergovernmental organizations or the
International Union for the Conservation
of Nature.
4.5 On-farm biodiversity is maintained and
safeguarded through the preservation of
native vegetation.
4.5.1 There is a map of the farm which shows the
native vegetation.
4.5.2 There is a plan, which is being
implemented, to ensure that the native
vegetation is being maintained (except
areas covered under Criterion 4.4).
This criterion shall be applied with
reference to the complexity and size of the
organization.
ProTerra is more stringent
than RTRS in this area.
Whereas ProTerra requires
that the certified operation
maintain and maximize
biodiversity in and around
the operation, RTRS only
considers biodiversity on the
farm, not in the surroundings,
and only requires that the
operator maintain whatever
biodiverrsity remains at the
time of first certification.
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
10.2.1 Certified organizations shall maintain or
restore areas of natural vegetation around
bodies of water and on steep slopes and
hills, and other sensitive parts of the
ecosystem.
5.2 Natural vegetation areas around springs
and along natural watercourses are
maintained or re-established.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
The width or area of vegetation shall
be sufficient to maintain and foster
the continued survival of the natural
biodiversity of the area and to avoid
erosion.
RTRS requires vegetation
buffers around riperian areas,
whereas ProTerra requires
preservation or restoration
of natural vegetation on
other sensitive parts of the
ecosystem as well as in
riperian areas. RTRS specifies
details regarding riperian
areas that ProTerra does not
mention in these clauses, but
which would be fulfilled by
the environmental impact
assessment specified in
ProTerra 9.1
5.2.1 The location of all watercourses has been
identified and mapped, including the status
of the riparian vegetation.
5.2.2 Where natural vegetation in riparian areas
has been removed there is a plan with a
timetable for restoration which is being
implemented
5.2.3 Natural wetlands are not drained and
native vegetation is maintained.
10.2.2 Certified organizations shall gather wild
species or products from wild areas only
when permitted by law and shall do so only
in a manner that assures those species will
continue to flourish in their natural habitat
along with other species that normally
depend on the gathered species.
10.2.3 The introduction of invasive species and
new pests shall be avoided, and past
introductions must be controlled and
monitored, and any invasive expansion of
these shall be reported to the authorities.
4.5.3 No hunting of rare, threatened or
endangered species takes place on the
property.
5.8 Systematic measures are planned and
implemented to monitor, control and
minimize the spread of invasive introduced
species and new pests.
5.8.1 Where there are institutional systems in
place to identify and monitor invasive
introduced species and new pests, or major
outbreaks of existing pests, producers
follow the requirements of these systems,
to minimize their spread.
5.8.2 Where such systems do not exist,
incidences of new pests or invasive species
and major outbreaks of existing pests are
communicated to the proper authorities
and relevant producer organizations or
research organizations.
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
Note: For group certification - the group
manager is responsible for communicating
to the authorities and relevant
organizations.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent.
32
33
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
11.1 Genetically modified organisms (GMO) and
their byproducts must not be used in the
production of ProTerra certified products.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
No Corresponding Principle
Preamble
PRINCIPLE 11 - Genetically Modified
Organisms (GMO) not used
ProTerra Guidance
Scope of application: This standard
applies to all kinds of soybeans, including
conventionally grown, organic, and
genetically modified (GM). It has been
designed to be used for all scales of soy
production and all the countries where soy
is produced.
This requirement applies to seed and other
agricultural inputs, as well as ingredients,
processing aids, additives, and other inputs
used in processing agricultural products
and used in manufacturing food, feed,
fibber, and fuel products.
11.1.1 All certified organizations shall avoid the
unintentional contamination of certified
products by GMO’s from external sources.
The rejection threshold for inadvertent
contamination of inputs and products with
GM materials shall be 0.1% for products for
which the producer intends to make a nonGMO claim. In cases where a production
system is designed to exclude GMOs to the
0.1% threshold, occasional lots that exceed
this threshold but contain less than 0.9%
GMO can be accepted under the ProTerra
Certification Program. Such products
qualify under EU law as “compliant with EU
labelling requirements for non-declaration
of GMOs,” but cannot carry a non-GMO
claim.
11.1.2 Certified organizations must demonstrate
compliance to Section 11 of this Standard
in a manner commensurate with the level
of GMO risk involved. Specifically:
a. If any product is not listed in Appendix
B and if the inputs used in making that
product are not listed in Appendix B, then
the product is considered to have low GMO
risk and no further action is required to
fulfil the requirements of Section 11.1 and
11.1.1
b. If a product or the inputs from which it is
produced are listed in Appendix B,
(...)
Refer to Appendix B: List of Crops and
Derivatives with GMO Risk, to determine if
the certified operation is involved with such
high-risk materials.
The standards and requirements for the
CERT ID Non-GMO certification program are
available directly from CERT ID.
Certification to the CERT ID Non-GMO
Standard (0.1% tolerance threshold) allows
the certified organization to make a nonGMO claim. Within a system designed to
operate to a threshold of 0.1%, occasional
lots of material may contain more GM
(...)
RTRS allows for the
certification of GMO soy
whilst ProTerra only allows
for the certification of
conventional crops and
byproducts, in alignment
with the original Basel
Criteria for the Responsible
Production of Soy. ProTerra
is also significantly more
rigorous notably regarding
Identity Preservation (IP)
across all stages of the supply
chain.
(...)
34
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
(...)
the requirements of Section 11 shall
be fulfilled by undergoing certification
according to the CERT ID Non-GMO
Standard which is herby incorporated by
reference and made an integral part of the
ProTerra Standard.
PRINCIPLE 12 - Waste and pollution
managed effectively
12.1 Certified organizations shall minimize the
use of waste materials and pollutants and
shall handle, store and dispose of these
materials properly.
12.1.1 Non-biological wastes shall be segregated
and, where appropriate, recycled. If
recycling is not possible, a legal means of
disposal or a legal alternative use shall be
employed.
12.2 Certified organizations shall manage
biological wastes (e.g., manure, straw,
harvest plant residues, and processing
by products thereof) appropriately to
avoid pollution and/or to prevent these
from becoming a source of pathogenic
contamination or pest harborage.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
material at levels greater than 0.1% but
less than 0.9%. Such lots cannot according
to EU law, carry the claim “Non-GMO,” but
do comply with EU regulations allowing
“non-declaration of the presence of GM
material” if the GMO content can be
demonstrated to be below 0.9% and if a
evidence can be provided that the material
was produced in a system designed to
deliver product with GM content of 0.1%
or lower.
(...)
These waste materials include but are not
limited to pesticides, fertilizers, processing
aids, cleaning products, detergents, and oil
derivatives.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent.
Principle 4: Environmental Responsibility
Principle 5: Good Agricultural Practice
4.2 Pollution is minimized and production
waste is managed responsibly
4.2.2 There is adequate storage and disposal of
fuel, batteries, tires, lubricants, sewage and
other waste.
4.2.4 Provide information on existing
programs for re-using or recycling waste
products.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent. ProTerra is more
specific.
4.2.5 For large and medium producers this
should be documented. For small farms it
is sufficient that the producer knows what
residues are produced and what will be
done with each one.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent, however RTRS
restricts the focus to crop
residues, while ProTerra
addresses all biological
wastes, including the
important category of
processing wastes.
4.2.4 Re-use and recycling are utilized wherever
possible.
4.2.5 There is a residue management plan
including all areas of the property.
35
ProTerra V2.9
12.2.1 Biological wastes shall not be incinerated,
except when required for phytosanitary
purposes, or in some cases when burned for
energy or heating.
RTRS V1
4.2.1 There is no burning on any part of the
property of crop residues, waste, or as part
of vegetation clearance, except under one
of the following conditions:
a) Where there is a legal obligation to burn
as a sanitary measure;
b) Where it is used for generation of energy
including charcoal production and for
drying crops;
c) Where only small-caliber residual
vegetation from land clearing remains after
all useable material has been removed for
other uses.
12.2.2 Certified organizations shall discharge
sewage water/effluents in a manner that
does not cause pollution to water supplies
for human beings or animals, and does
not contaminate the soil or crops with
chemicals, heavy metals, by-products,
or excess nutrients and pathogens. Raw
sewage shall not be used to irrigate crops.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Burning for energy production shall be
practiced only in cases where sufficient
biomass can also be recycled to the fields
by composting or other methods for
effectively building healthy soil.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent, except that RTRS
allows use of burning as part
of the land clearing and land
conversion process, while
ProTerra does not, as specified
in ProTerra 15.2.
If sewage is to be used or otherwise
incorporated back into any production
system, it must be treated such that it
complies with the requirement.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
Certified organizations shall ensure that
sewage water is treated and filtered to
assure that water that is released back into
the environment is safe.
4.2.3 There are facilities to prevent spills of oil
and other pollutants.
ProTerra and RTRS are
equivalent. Spill prevention
facilities are not mentioned
explicitly in ProTerra, but
coverred under 4.1.1, which
addresses procedures and
systems for managing
emergencies.
36
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
12.2.3 Certified organizations shall monitor
physical, chemical and biological
characteristics of water discharged into the
environment to ensure safety and legal
compliance.
5.1 The quality and supply of surface and
ground water is maintained or improved.
COD or BOD and also N and P concentrations
must not exceed local environmental
regulations.
5.1.1 Good agricultural practices are
implemented to minimize diffuse and
localized impacts on surface and ground
water quality from chemical residues,
fertilizers, erosion or other sources and to
promote aquifer recharge.
5.1.2 There is monitoring, appropriate to scale,
to demonstrate that the practices are
effective.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.1.2 Where appropriate there should be
monitoring of parameters such as pH,
temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity
and electrical conductivity. Monitoring
should be considered at watershed level.
5.1.2 Where there are wells these should be
used to monitor ground water.
5.1.3 Any direct evidence of localized
contamination of ground or surface water is
reported to, and monitored in collaboration
with local authorities.
12.3 Water, soil, pests, fertility and irrigation
shall be managed such that surface and
ground water and other water supplies are
not contaminated.
12.4 Certified organizations shall implement
systems and procedures to ensure that
concentrations of contaminants emitted
through smoke pipes, chimneys, boilers,
ovens, incinerators, and electricity
generators do not exceed established limits
set by local or national law.
12.4.1 Certified organizations shall not reduce
the effectiveness of control systems to
accelerate production flow or to improve
other performance parameters of the
operating system, unless necessary under
short term emergency conditions.
5.1 The quality and supply of surface and
ground water is maintained or improved.
Testing shall be done to assure that
contamination does not occur.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
Certified organizations shall document the
performance of these control systems.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
At the end of emergency conditions, the
control systems shall be restored to optimal
performance.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
37
ProTerra V2.9
12.5 Growers shall avoid or reduce the use of
toxic or polluting materials whenever
possible, and shall select agrochemical
inputs having the least possible toxicity
and environmental impact for the required
application.
12.5.1 Pesticides listed on the WHO class 1 a & b,
Pesticide Action Network’s “Dirty Dozen”
list, and FAO/UNEP's Prior Informed Consent
Procedure, on the Rotterdam Convention
and on the Stockholm Convention, may not
be used. Hazardous substances listed on the
Rotterdam Convention are not to be used in
agricultural or industrial operations.
12.5.2 In cases where chemicals included on the
lists cited in 12.5.1 can be used legally in
the country where agricultural production
is conducted, certified organizations shall
implement a program of progressive
reduction of use over time, which will be
agreed with the certification body and
tracked on a yearly basis. In such cases,
products exported to countries where said
pesticides are not allowed by law shall
be tested before export to assure that
residue levels are negligible or are, at least,
compliant with residue limits set in the
country of import.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
5.4.2 There is an implemented plan that contains Operations that use agrochemicals shall
targets for reduction of potentially harmful employ Integrated Pest Management and
phytosanitary products over time.
other strategies to minimize agrochemical
use.
5.6 Agrochemicals listed in the Stockholm and
Rotterdam Conventions are not used.
Lists of all chemicals referenced in this
requirement may be found in Appendix C
of this Standard and by searching on the
websites listed at the end of Appendix C.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
5.4.2 The parameters that are monitored
RTRS and ProTerra are
include the number of applications of
generally equivalent.
phytosanitary products per crop cycle,
volume of phytosanitary product used per
hectare and toxicological class of product.
5.4.2 The level of potential harmfulness of
a phytosanitary product can be determined
from its WHO class for the purposes of this
criterion.
5.4.2 Where targets are not met,
documented evidence is presented to
justify this.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent. ProTerra
is more restrictive.
No corresponding
requirement exists in the
RTRS Standard.
38
ProTerra V2.9
12.5.3 The use of pesticides for pests, diseases,
and non-crop plants shall be minimized
through integrated pest management
(IPM), and use of ecologically sound
biological controls for the target pest or
disease where applicable.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
5.4 Negative environmental and health
impacts of phytosanitary products are
reduced by implementation of systematic,
recognized Integrated Crop Management
(ICM) techniques.
Note: See Annex 5 for further information
on ICM. Note: For group certification of
small farms - (particularly those who
are not literate) the development and
documentation of the ICM plan should
be undertaken by the group manager,
together with support for implementation.
Surface and ground water includes lakes,
rivers, lagoons, marshes, swamps, ground
water sources, aquifers/water tables.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.7 The use of biological control agents is
documented, monitored and controlled
in accordance with national laws and
internationally accepted scientific protocols.
Records of use of biological control agents
should be used as evidence of compliance
with this criterion
Both RTRS and ProTerra
advocate use of biological
control of pests, however,
RTRS provides more detailed
guidance on use.
5.7.1 There is information about requirements for
use of biological control agents
5.7.2 Records are kept of all use of biological
control agents that demonstrate
compliance with national laws.
Scale and context, especially for small
farms, should be taken into account.
12.5.4 Certified organizations shall use nonchemical weed control methods whenever
possible, such as mechanical methods
and management of crop rotations, crop
succession and intercropping.
5.4.1 A plan for ICM is documented and
implemented which addresses the use of
prevention, and biological and other nonchemical or selective chemical controls.
Operations that use agrochemicals should
make stepwise changes in their systems
to significantly minimize or eliminate the
need for herbicides.
12.5.5 Certified organizations shall only use
pesticides on crops and for target species
for which they are legally allowed, at the
prescribed dosage, during the required
timeframe and/or crop conditions, as
defined in local laws and regulations and
by manufacturers’ recommendations or by
documented best practices.
5.4.3 Use of phytosanitary products follows
legal requirements and professional
recommendations (or, if professional
recommendations are not available,
manufacturer’s recommendations) and
includes rotation of active ingredients to
prevent resistance.
This will include a program of pesticide
rotation designed to minimize
development of pest resistance.
Note: For group certification of small farms
- (particularly those who are not literate)
the development and documentation of
the ICM plan should be undertaken by the
group manager, together with support for
implementation.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
39
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
12.6 Agrochemicals shall be applied using
methods that minimize harm to human
health, wild life, plant biodiversity, and
water and air quality.
5.9 Appropriate measures are implemented
to prevent the drift of agrochemicals to
neighboring areas.
12.6.1 Certified organizations shall not engage
in pesticide spraying over bodies of water,
or over preserved, protected or residential
areas.
RTRS Guidance
Factors that influence drift include
among others wind speed and direction,
temperature, equipment utilized and
topography, Requirements for small farms
should be appropriate to scale and context.
For group certification of small farms group managers may provide documented
procedures and maintain records of
weather conditions.
5.9.5 There is no application of pesticides within
30m of any populated areas or water
bodies.
Note: ‘Populated areas’ means any occupied
house, office or other building.
Note: ‘Water bodies’ includes, but is not
limited to, water courses, rivers, streams,
lagoons, springs, lakes, reservoirs and
ditches.
5.9.5: There may be an exception for
manual application of chemicals not
classified as WHO Ia, Ib, or II, if adequate
measures are taken to prevent drift
(e.g. use of backpack applicators with
shields) and it is permitted by the law and
manufacturer’s recommendations.
12.6.3 Recently sprayed areas shall be marked
appropriately to warn people not to enter
into such areas.
5.5.4 The necessary precautions are taken to
avoid people entering into recently sprayed
areas.
12.6.4 Aerial spraying shall be conducted only
under weather conditions that minimize
drift to adjacent areas.
5.9.3 Aerial application of pesticides is carried
out in such a way that it does not have
an impact on populated areas. All aerial
application is preceded by advance
notification to residents within 500m of the
planned application.
Comments
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.9.1 There are documented procedures in place
that specify good agricultural practices,
including minimization of drift, in applying
agrochemicals and these procedures are
being implemented.
12.6.2 Pesticides shall not be sprayed within 100
meters of human populated areas, and
shall not be sprayed within 50 meters of
bodies of water.
12.6.5 Residents within 1 km shall be informed
at least one day in advance before aerial
spraying is done.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
RTRS and ProTerra are
roughly equivalent. But RTRS
prescribes only 30 m while
ProTerra prescribes 100 m
from populated areas and 50
m from bodies of water.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
Note: ‘Populated areas’ means any occupied RTRS and ProTerra are roughly
house, office or other building.
equivalent, but ProTerra
requires larger protective
distances.
40
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
12.6.6 Aerial spraying shall not be carried out with
WHO Class II pesticides.
5.9.4 There is no aerial application of pesticides
in WHO Class Ia, Ib and II within 500m of
populated areas or water bodies.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Generally equivalent for
ProTerra and RTRS. ProTerra is
more protective.
12.6.7 Certified organizations shall adhere to
quarantine periods, avoiding harvest until
applied pesticide hazard for consumers is
reduced to acceptable levels.
12.6.8 Pesticides shall be handled, stored,
transported, and disposed of according
to manufacturers’ instructions, legal
requirements, or according to procedures
documented to be superior.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
5.5.2 Containers are properly stored, washed
and disposed of; waste and residual
agrochemicals are disposed in an
environmentally appropriate way.
5.5.3 Transportation and storage of
agrochemicals is safe and all applicable
health, environmental and safety
precautions are implemented.
12.6.9 Certified organizations shall maintain, for
a period of at least 5 years, records of all
pesticides, other agrochemicals and other
inputs purchased, used, and disposed of,
including bio-control agents. Records of
pests, diseases, weather conditions during
spraying, and weeds shall also be recorded.
Comments
5.5.1 There are records of the use of
agrochemicals, including:
a) products purchased and applied,
quantity and dates;
b) identification of the area where the
application was made;
c) names of the persons that carried out
the preparation of the products and field
application;
d) identification of the application
equipment used;
e) weather conditions during application.
Pesticides shall be stored and transported
in original containers or in other
appropriate containers clearly labelled to
identify contents.
Growers shall follow manufacturer’s
recommendations and legal requirements
for disposing of agrochemical wastes
and empty pesticide containers, and for
cleaning all application equipment.
Growers shall triple rinse empty pesticide
containers with water, then perforate to
prevent reuse, and when possible return
containers to the supplier, or to facilities
designed to handle such wastes.
5.5.2 Washing of containers should be
carried out using triple rinsing principles
(including re-use of the rinse water in
the tank mix) or using high-pressure
techniques associated with mechanical
application.
Documentation will include at least the
following:
· Application procedures
· Dilution dosages and amounts used
· Crops and field locations to which they
were applied
· Dates of application
· Relevant quarantine times before the
crop was harvested
· Weather conditions during application.
5.5.1 Records are maintained for at least 5
years. This does not apply to records from
years prior to certification.
5.5.1 Scale and context, especially for
small farms, should be taken into account.
Exceptions (e.g. for maintaining invoices)
may be allowed for small farms in a group,
provided that the group has a mechanism
for assuring compliance with the criterion.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
5.5.3 Areas used for the storage and
distribution of agrochemicals, flammable
and toxic substances are designed,
constructed and equipped to reduce the
risks of accidents and negative impacts on
human health and the environment.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent.
41
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
5.5 All application of agrochemical is
documented and all handling, storage,
collection and disposal of chemical waste
and empty containers, is monitored to
ensure compliance with good practice.
5.9.2 Records of weather conditions (wind speed
and direction, temperature and relative
humidity) during spraying operations are
maintained.
12.7 Best practices are followed in fertilizer use,
based on expert opinion or at least the
manufacturer's recommendations.
PRINCIPLE 13 - Water managed
conservatively
13.1 Certified organizations (Levels I, II and
III) shall conserve quantity and quality of
existing natural water resources, such as
lakes, rivers, artificial lakes, dams, water
tables and aquifers around their facilities.
Requirements for small farms should
be appropriate to scale and context. For
group certification of small farms - group
managers may provide documented
procedures and maintain records of
weather conditions.
5.5.5 Fertilizers are used in accordance with
professional recommendations (provided
by manufacturers where other professional
recommendations are not available).
12.8 Level III organizations shall test agricultural
produce on receipt for chemical residues
(e.g., pesticides) and harmful contaminants
(e.g., mycotoxins), and maintain testing
records.
Comments
Equivalent to ProTerra 12.6
to 12.6.9
Corresponds to ProTerra
12.6.9, but is more detailed.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
Tests should be designed so that they
are as relevant as possible to the specific
risks involved. Frequency of tests shall be
determined on the basis of a risk analysis
conducted by the operation and evaluated
by the certification body.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
because RTRS does not apply
to Level III organizations.
Principle 4: Environmental Responsibility
Principle 5: Good Agricultural Practice
5.1 The quality and supply of surface and
ground water is maintained or improved.
5.1.3 Any direct evidence of localized
contamination of ground or surface water is
reported to, and monitored in collaboration
with local authorities.
Note: For group certification of small
farms - Where irrigation is used for crops
other than soy but is not done according
to best practice, a plan is in place and is
being implemented to improve practices.
The group manager is responsible for
documentation.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent. RTRS makes
reference to potential
improvements in water
quality
No corresponding
requirement exists in
ProTerra.
42
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
13.1.1 Certified organizations shall not undertake
new initiatives that reduce the availability
of water for neighboring communities and
farms for drinking and irrigation, or for
"traditional" uses.
ProTerra Guidance
“Traditional” uses of water by certified
operators must likewise be shown to still be
viable and sustainable. Practices that once
were considered sustainable may no longer
be due to increased population pressure or
other recent ecosystem or climatic changes.
13.1.2 In cases where activities that predate the
certification application damage water
resources, certified organizations shall
undertake improvements in practices
according to an agreed time frame that will
rectify such interference.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS.
13.2 Certified organizations shall implement
best practices for water management on
the farm.
5.1.1 Good agricultural practices are
implemented to minimize diffuse and
localized impacts on surface and ground
water quality from chemical residues,
fertilizers, erosion or other sources and to
promote aquifer recharge.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
13.2.1 Certified organizations shall implement
best practices for irrigation.
5.1.4 Where irrigation is used, there is a
documented procedure in place for
applying best practices and acting
according to legislation and best practice
guidance (where this exists), and for
measurement of water utilization.
5.1.4 When using irrigation, attention
RTRS and ProTerra are
should be paid to other potential uses such equivalent.
as household use or use by other food crops
and if there is a lack of water priority should
be given to human consumption.
13.2.2 Certified organizations shall implement
recycling systems and strategies to promote
aquifer and water table recharge according
to an agreed timeline.
5.1.1 Good agricultural practices are
implemented to minimize diffuse and
localized impacts on surface and ground
water quality from chemical residues,
fertilizers, erosion or other sources and to
promote aquifer recharge.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
13.2.3 Irrigation shall be managed so as to
avoid contamination, salinization and
desertification of the soil.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
43
ProTerra V2.9
PRINCIPLE 14 - Greenhouse gasses and
energy managed effectively
14.1 Certified organizations shall monitor
greenhouse gas emissions and observe
restrictions and limits in order to minimize
climate change impacts.
RTRS V1
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Principle 4: Environmental Responsibility
4.3 Efforts are made to reduce emissions and
increase sequestration of Greenhouse Gases
(GHGs) on the farm.
14.1.1 If products are used that are classified as
destructive to the ozone layer, a schedule
for their elimination and replacement, as
described by the Montreal Protocol, shall
be followed. Examples of such products
are Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), halons,
Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) and
Hydrobromofluorocarbons (HBFCs).
14.1.2 Certified organizations shall monitor and
reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as
carbon dioxide, methane, nitrogen and
sulphur oxides, etc., through effective
management of energy, soil, fertilizers,
native biodiversity and other practices.
ProTerra Guidance
Note: Other issues which are relevant
RTRS and ProTerra are
to GHG emissions are covered in other
equivalent.
principles including: Use of fertilizers
(Criterion 5.5), Land-use change (Criterion
4.4). On farms which produce multiple
crops an estimate of the use of fossil fuel for
soy production should be calculated.
‘Activities related to soy production’ include:
field operations and on-farm transport,
whether this is done by the producer or by
third parties.
An example of a justification for an increase
in the intensity of fossil fuel use may be if a
planting was lost due to drought and had
to be replanted.
The use of renewable energy (biofuels,
biogas, solar and wind energy etc) on
the farm is encouraged. In the case of
renewable energy replacing electricity,
quantify the equivalent fossil fuel saving.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
4.3 Efforts are made to reduce emissions and
increase sequestration of Greenhouse
Generally equivalent.
ProTerra has a more complete
requirement whereas RTRS
emphasis fossil fuel usage
only.
44
ProTerra V2.9
14.2 Over time, certified organizations shall
adopt practices to minimize the use of
energy, especially energy from nonrenewable sources and to derive an
increasing proportion of their energy from
renewable sources such as solar and wind,
or from local, recycled materials.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
4.3.3 Soil organic matter is monitored to quantify
change in soil carbon and steps are taken to
mitigate negative trends.
Broad equivalence between
RTRS 4.3.3 and ProTerra
14.1.1
4.3.4 Opportunities for increasing carbon
sequestration through restoration of native
vegetation, forest plantations and other
means are identified.
Broad equivalence between
RTRS 4.3.4 and ProTerra
14.1.1
4.3.1 Total direct fossil fuel use over time is
recorded, and its volume per hectare and
per unit of product for all activities related
to soy production is monitored.
Examples of applicable materials are
reforestation wood, bio-fuels, wood chips,
and crushed sugarcane fiber.
RTRS focuses on fossil fuel
use, requiring monitoring,
and allows increases in fossil
fuel use with justification.
In contrast, ProTerra requires
reductions over time in
energy use and especially
reduction of all forms of nonrenewable energy, not just
fossil fuels.
Plans should identify timelines, methods,
and proposed budgeting of time and
company resources needed. Progress
shall be documented or otherwise
demonstrable.
4.3.2 If there is an increase in the intensity of
fossil fuel used, there is a justification for
this. If no justification is available there is
an action plan to reduce use.
PRINCIPLE 15 - Good agricultural practices
adopted
15.1 Growers shall adopt agricultural best
practices and, where possible, adopt
conservation systems such as Integrated
Pest Management (IPM) and organic
agricultural practices.
Comments
Princilple 5: Good Agricultural Practice
5.5 All application of agrochemicals2 is
documented and all handling, storage,
collection and disposal of chemical waste
and empty containers, is monitored to
ensure compliance with good practice.
Best practices include methods that build
soil, protect water, reduce chemical usage,
and foster biodiversity.
2 Note: Agrochemicals refers to all
chemicals used including fertilizers and
pesticides.
RTRS and ProTerra are
generally equivalent
regarding agricultural
best practices, except that
ProTerra sets more ambitious
progressive targets.
45
ProTerra V2.9
15.2 Certified organizations shall not clear areas
by burning vegetation except when this
method is prescribed by experts as the
optimal ecological option.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
4.2.1 There is no burning on any part of the
Such recommendations shall be
property of crop residues, waste, or as part documented.
of vegetation clearance, except under one
of the following conditions:
a) Where there is a legal obligation to burn
as a sanitary measure;
b) Where it is used for generation of energy
including charcoal production and for
drying crops;
c) Where only small-caliber residual
vegetation from land clearing remains after
all useable material has been removed for
other uses.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
Generally equivalent, but
RTRS has more exceptions
to the prohibition on use of
burning for land clearance.
15.2.1 If experts recommend fire as the most
appropriate option for clearing an area,
then trained people shall apply the
technical procedure and employ all required
safety and environmental measures.
Terms for qualifications shall be described
by the certified operation.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
15.2.2 Although burning may be recommended
for a specific current application, certified
organizations shall develop alternative
methods for use in future years.
The development of alternative practices
should commence within the year that
burning is employed, and should be
completed on a timeline, defined in
consultation with the certification body.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
5.3 Soil quality is maintained or improved and
erosion is avoided by good management
practices.
Examples of useful practices include use of
cover crops, management of vegetation,
management of crop succession and
rotation.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent (see also ProTerra
15.3.2).
15.3.1 Certified organizations shall evaluate
suitability of the soil for production
of specific crops and to define a soil
management regime.
5.3.1 Knowledge of techniques to maintain soil
quality (physical, chemical and biological)
is demonstrated and these techniques are
implemented.
Expert advice on soil science can be
accessed outside the organization if not
available on site and soil analysis can be a
useful tool for this evaluation.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
15.3.2 Certified organizations shall minimize
soil erosion and damage to soil structure
caused by wind, water, human activity and
presence of farm animals.
5.3.2 Knowledge of techniques to control
soil erosion is demonstrated and these
techniques are implemented.
Production practices should maintain
vegetative cover for as long as possible
throughout the year.
RTRS and ProTerra are
equivalent.
15.3 Certified organizations shall define a
soil and crop management regime that
monitors soil quality, builds soil, enhances
fertility and manages pests and diseases.
46
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
5.3.3 Appropriate monitoring, including soil
organic matter content, is in place.
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Note: For group certification - Monitoring
of soil fertility and soil quality should be
part of the internal control system and can
be carried out on a sampling basis within
the group.
15.4 Certified organizations shall maintain
5.4.4 Records kept in several areas relevant to
records of all agricultural production for a
agricultural practices.
minimum of 5 years or longer if specified by
local regulations. Records include:
- Production and yields of the farm by lot,
including seed variety, production and
storage periods, and delivery destinations
- Crop succession and rotation for each field
- Fertilizer and pesticide applications
- Pests and diseases
- Other soil and crop status and
management practices
15.5 Managing propagation materials including
seeds, stem cuttings, rootstock, etc.
shall be an integral part of the systemic
management of the agricultural operation.
15.5.1 Seeds, seedlings, and propagation
materials shall be selected for quality and
performance for the locale.
15.5.2 Seed-saving and local breeding are
acceptable procedures however, the
certified organization must conduct
practices to assure seed quality and
performance.
5.11 Origin of seeds is controlled to improve
production and prevent introduction of
new diseases.
5.11.1 All purchased seed must come from known
legal quality sources.
5.11.2 Self-propagated seeds may be used,
provided appropriate seed production
norms are followed and legal requirements
regarding intellectual property rights are
met.
Comments
Equivalent to ProTerra 15.3
and 15.5.
RTRS requires record keeping
in 5.4.4, 5.5.1, 5.7.2, and
5.9.2
The certification body may wave this
Consider pest and disease resistance,
requirement in cases where producers save and adaptation to local climactic and soil
their own seed or propagate from their own conditions.
existing stocks, especially in the case of
smallholders.
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent.
47
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
15.5.3 Certified organizations shall maintain all
seed records for a minimum of 5 years or
longer if specified by local regulations.
Records include:
- Seed certificates
- Records of seeds produced for farm
- Each season’s records identifying the seeds
and their source used for planting each crop
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the initial
years of certification.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
15.5.4 Certified organizations shall retain archive
seed samples for a minimum of 2 years, or
longer if specified by local regulations.
The certified organization must begin
archiving seed during the first year of
certification, and maintain archives for two
years.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
PRINCIPLE 16 - Traceable and segregated
chain of custody
No Corresponding Principle
16.1 Certified organizations shall ensure that all
products certified to the ProTerra Standard
and inputs used in such products can be
traced back to the farm.
16.1.1 Certified organizations shall maintain
traceability records for a minimum period
of 5 years, or longer, if required by local
legislation.
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the first years
of certification.
16.1.2 Certified producers shall maintain seed
records for a minimum of 5 years or longer
if specified by local regulations. Records
include:
- Seed certificates for purchased seeds
- Records of seeds produced on the farm
- Records identifying the seeds used for
each crop
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the first years
of certification.
16.1.3 Certified producers shall maintain
production and storage records for each
crop for a minimum of 5 years or longer if
specified by local regulations.
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the first years
of certification.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
production standard, RTRS
Chain of Custody Standard
addresses traceability but
this standard’s most rigorous
option is not as stringent
than ProTerra, while other
options are much less
stringent.
(...)
48
ProTerra V2.9
16.1.4 Records at first point of sale. Each truck or
other conveyance that unloads agricultural
commodities at an elevator or warehouse
shall be weighed. Control documents will
record weight, lot number, date, driver
name, number of vehicle license plates,
farm name, number of silo or warehouse
and locality, as well as analytical results, if
any, regarding quality and identity of crop
and will be kept for 5 years or longer if
specified by local regulations.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
Product will be delivered either directly from
the farm or from another warehouse or silo.
These are truckload by truckload records
connecting producer-seller with the
processor-buyer.
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the first years
of certification.
16.1.5 The receiving certified organization shall
assign a lot number to each shipment
linked to the identification information
listed above.
16.2 The chain of custody for ProTerra certified
products shall be fully traceable and
documented and shall be fully segregated
from non-ProTerra materials.
Fulfillment of the requirements outlined in
16.2 and 16.2.1 through 16.2.5 qualify an
Economic Operator as a ProTerra Chain of
Custody Economic Operator.
Fulfillment of these requirements shall
enable the Economic Operators to make
a sustainability claim on final products
offered to consumers and on any
intermediate product as well.
16.2.1 The Economic Operator shall have, and shall
consistently employ, standard operating
procedures for maintaining full segregation
for each lot of ProTerra certified product
from the point of receipt to the point of
transfer to the next Economic Operator in
the supply chain.
16.2.2 The Economic Operator shall maintain
and update records that document full
traceability throughout that segment of
the supply chain for which that Economic
Operator is responsible.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
49
ProTerra V2.9
16.2.3 Chain of Custody traceability shall be
maintained during transfer of ownership of
a consignment of ProTerra certified product
from one Economic Operator to another
by means of a Transaction Certificate
of Compliance (TCC) specific for that
transaction.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
The information contained in the
Traceability Certificate of Compliance shall
include the volume of the consignment
changing ownership, the lot numbers
and the volumes of each lot of material
contained in the consignment, the identity
of the receiving and supplying economic
operators, and the date of the transaction.
This information shall be retained by both
Economic Operators.
A ProTerra Chain of Custody Economic
Operator can receive consignments of
ProTerra certified products consisting
of defined volumes derived from one or
more production lots, and can merge or
split received consignments of ProTerra
certified materials. To each new merged or
split consignment a unique identification
number must be assigned.
Use of TCCs is not required for sealed
products that are packaged and labelled for
the end user, for example, retail packages.
16.2.4 The Economic Operator shall maintain and
update inventory control documentation
assuring that volumes of ProTerra certified
material received are equal to volumes
disbursed.
16.2.5 In the case of ProTerra certified materials
that have GMO risk (such as soy meal or
soy lecithin) the Traceability Certificate of
Compliance shall also include information
verifying that the specific lot of material
referenced in the TCC complies with the
relevant rejection threshold for GMO
(...)
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
50
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
(...)
content (0.1% or 0.9% depending on the
claim made). This information can be in
either of the following two forms:
a. The TCC shall reference a certificate of
analysis, indicating that the GMO content
of the ProTerra certified material complies
with the relevant threshold. The report
will include the unique identifier of the
specific certificate of analysis for the test
done on that lot of material, the laboratory
that conducted the test (the lab must be
ProTerra approved), and information as to
where that certificate is filed.
b. In cases where the ProTerra certified
material cannot or has not been tested
directly, two items must be included in
the TCC:
(a) reference to a certificate of analysis,
including certificate number, laboratory
conducting the test (the lab must be
ProTerra approved), and location where the
certificate of analysis is filed, indicating
that the specific lot of precursor, from
which the specific lot of certified material
was derived, complied with the relevant
threshold;
(b) reference to the location of traceability
information linking the specific lot of
ProTerra certified material to the specific lot
of precursor referenced in the certificate of
analysis.
16.3 Records of all processes and analyses shall
be maintained for a minimum of 5 years, or
longer if specified by local regulations.
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
If this requirement is first being met during
the initial year that ProTerra certification is
achieved, the certification body will waive
the retroactive aspect of it for the initial
years of certification.
(...)
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
51
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
Records comprise but are not limited to:
a. Cleaning, system purging, segregation,
production and manufacturing processes.
b. Analyses result reports for assessing
specific properties of inputs or outputs.
Such records may include but not be limited
to:
- date of process or analysis;
- dates of production;
- production line or facilities used;
- product lot numbers;
- volume and identification of raw material;
- ingredient and input suppliers;
- volume of product made;
- lot number and locality where product
was produced.
PRINCIPLE 17 - Continuous improvement
undertaken
17.1 Certified organizations shall prepare a
written plan for a program of continuous
improvement the goal of which will be full
compliance with all aspects of the ProTerra
Standard.
Principle 1: Legal Compliance and Good
Business Practice
1.3 There is continual improvement with
respect to the requirements of this
standard.
The results of these activities must
be documented or otherwise obvious
when being viewed or assessed by the
certification body and its inspectors.
Note: For group certification - continual
improvement should be recorded and
monitored at the group level.
It is recognized that sometimes there
may not be improvement for specific
This criterion applies equally to all certified continual improvement indicators due to
organizations and sub-contractors,
circumstances beyond the control of the
including Level I, II and III organizations but certificate holder.
is applied with reference to the complexity
and size of the operation.
17.1.1 Senior management shall sign this plan to
indicate their support and approval.
17.1.2 Based on gap analysis of the differences
between the certified organization’s
current operations (the baseline) and the
requirements of the ProTerra Standard, the
(...)
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent. ProTerra is more
specific.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS
1.3.1 A review process is carried out which
identifies those social, environmental
and agricultural aspects of the operation
(on and off farm) where improvement is
desirable.
At the time of the yearly audit, progress
is assessed against the continuous
improvement plan and the plan adjusted
as necessary in consultation with the
certification body.
Note: The producer is expected to be aware
of the social and environmental context
in which he/she is operating and the
existing and possible future impacts of the
operation.
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent. ProTerra is more
specific with regards to long
term plan for continuous
improvement.
52
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
(...)
organization shall prepare a long-term plan
of continuous improvement, laying out
long-term objectives and clearly defined
measurable milestones to be achieved
according to a specified timeline, and
including yearly targets.
17.1.3 During the year, the certified organization
shall systematically execute the plan for
continuous improvement and take all
necessary action to correct any complaints
and anomalies reported at the time of the
previous audit.
1.3.2 A number of indicators are selected and
a baseline is established to be able to
monitor continual improvement on those
aspects where desired improvements have
been identified.
17.1.4 During the year, the certified organization
shall monitor and document progress in
correcting any complaints and anomalies
reported as part of the previous audit,
and in achieving that year’s continuous
improvement targets.
1.3.3 The results of monitoring are reviewed
and appropriate action is planned and
taken when necessary to ensure continual
improvement.
17.1.5 Certified organizations shall maintain
records of all audits, inspections by thirdparty inspectors, regulators and client
quality assurance personnel for a minimum
of 5 years, or longer if specified by local
regulations.
PRINCIPLE 18 - Correct labelling and logo
use
18.1 ProTerra certified materials shall be
identified using the ProTerra seal,
Traceability Certificates of Compliance, or
other documentation that can be used to
track the product through the supply chain
back to the farm level.
Note: Producers are free to choose the
continual improvement indicators that
are relevant to them to demonstrate
continual improvement with respect to the
requirements of this standard;
e.g. Soil carbon content, use of
agrochemicals, state of riparian vegetation
etc. The baseline year is the year of first
certification assessment.
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent.
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent.
Records of all audits, internal and external,
conducted on the facilities, equipment,
conveyances, and documents such as
quality manuals, written procedures,
documentation of non-compliances
accidents, complaints and corrective actions
(CAR) shall be maintained.
RTRS and ProTerra generally
equivalent.
If authorised and done in compliance
with guidelines of the certification body,
the ProTerra seal can be used on raw
agricultural materials, processed materials
and ingredients and on final consumer
products.
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS.
RTRS does not function as a
consumer-facing seal.
(...)
No Corresponding Principle
53
ProTerra V2.9
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
18.1.1 All retail and non-retail packaging shall
bear a lot or production code that allows
for traceability back through all links in
the chain of custody of the goods involved,
back to the field(s) of origin.
18.1.2 All goods shipped in bulk, where packaging
or labels are not feasible, shall be duly
identified on associated documentation
(the Traceability Certificate of Compliance)
including a lot or production code that
allows for traceability back through all
links in the chain of custody of the goods
involved, back to the field(s) of origin.
Comments
(...)
Examples are bulk tankers of liquids,
ocean-going containers of loose goods, ship
holds, etc.
18.1.3 The client shall make claims and shall
use the ProTerra seal only in a manner
consistent with the actual scope of their
ProTerra certification and shall use the
ProTerra name and seal only to identify
products and programs that have been
certified to be in conformance with the
ProTerra Standard.
18.1.4 The client shall not make statements or
claims regarding its products or its ProTerra
certification program that are misleading
or unauthorized. The ProTerra name and
the ProTerra logo and certification seal shall
only be used on documents, brochures,
advertising materials, and product labels
as allowed in writing by ProTerra. The client
agrees to submit all such materials to CERT
ID for approval before placing them in use.
RTRS Guidance
The ProTerra name and/or logo shall not
be used in a manner that can be construed
to mean that an entire company’s or
operation’s activities and products are
certified under these programs, unless
they are in fact all duly certified. ProTerra
and the certification body reserve the
right to require additional explanatory
statements be used on marketing materials
in association with the seal to make this
clear. Such marketing materials include
but are not limited to websites, brochures,
displays, etc., and will be considered by the
certification body on a case-by-case basis.
54
ProTerra V2.9
18.2 Use of ProTerra Seal:
18.2.1 Multi-ingredient products containing 100%
ProTerra ingredients can place the ProTerra
seal on the front panel of the product and
state "100% ProTerra Certified."
18.2.2 Multi-ingredient products containing 95%
or more ProTerra ingredients can place
the ProTerra seal on the front panel of the
product and state "ProTerra Certified."
18.2.3 Multi-ingredient products containing more
than 70% ProTerra ingredients cannot
use the ProTerra seal but can state "Made
with ProTerra Certified XXXX," Where
XXXX represents the name of the specific
ingredient(s) certified.
18.2.4 Multi-ingredient products containing less
than 95% ProTerra ingredients can declare
these "ProTerra Certified" in the ingredient
panel on the back of the package, but
cannot use the ProTerra seal.
18.2.5 It is not allowed to use the same ingredient
in both certified and non-certified form in
any given formulation.
RTRS V1
ProTerra Guidance
RTRS Guidance
Comments
No Corresponding Principle
No corresponding
requirement exists in RTRS.
RTRS does not function as a
consumer-facing seal.