Argentina
Our member Cámara del Tabaco de Misiones has a tree-planting program which not only supplies the local tobacco-growers but also supplies wood to other local industries.
Our members are part of the Model Forest of Jujuy, a civil association that performs and executes projects with the aim of contributing to the integrated management of natural resources and which is part of the International Model Forest Network.
Brazil
Since its establishment in 1955, AFUBRA developed sustainable programmes for its members. in the 1980s, AFURA developed a programme, Verde é Vida (Green is life). To address the challenges of most of its members, isolated smallholders with access to very little infrastructure. It started with the distribution of native seedlings, making the communities aware of the need for nature preservation.
Over the years, new activities were added and AFUBRA created the Agroforestry Production department to show the viability of income for family farmers by reforesting. And not have forests just for input of the tobacco production chain. Currently, the department manages the Agricultural Broadcasting Center; produces forest and agricultural seedlings at Afive Agroforestry Nursery; holds lectures and field days, sawmill services, forestry courses, training and services; implant demonstrative forests; develops demonstration crops, offers internships for students; does the Rural Environmental Registry, among other activities. The programme works in partnership with municipalities, schools, students, teachers and the school community.
India
Tobacco importing countries are imposing stringent conditions that PPP residues in leaf tobacco shall be below statutory Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs). Though Indian tobacco is known for low PPP residues, in order to strategize and develop action plan for tackling future problems of PPP residues, The regulatory authority Tobacco Board of India has been implementing several measures proactively.
The Board is undertaking analysis of leaf samples for determining agro-chemical residues for proper monitoring and control of residue levels in leaf tobacco. Based on the analysis results, specific focused interventions are being taken up to restrict reoccurrence of these PPPs residues above MRL. During 2018-19 crop season, the Board launched massive campaigns for control of pesticide residues to get assured quality of leaf to improve product integrity and got the great achievement by production of 96-100% residue free Flue-Cured Virginia tobacco according to the areas.
With regard to improvement of curing techniques, the Tobacco Board of India reports each year that tobacco growers have undertaken several measures to reduce artificial energy needs. Measures range from improving the furnaces of the curing barn to insulating their roofs or installing solar panels. Farmers also plant trees supplied as seedlings by the Board in order to have their own source of wood as fuel.
Malawi
Nearly 90% of tobacco farmers have live barns for their Burley tobacco!
Philippines
In the last 6 years tobacco growers have planted over 6.3 million trees with the support of the regulator National Tobacco Authority. In addition of the planting requirements in their tobacco production contract.
Zimbabwe
Our member the Zimbabwe Tobacco Association (ZTA) actively works with its associates to help them have sustainable woodlots for tobacco curing and other uses. Starting with 6 million trees in 2015 farmers continue planting trees for their Flue-Cured Virginia.