ECOTOP, in collaboration with the Lindt Cocoa Foundation, is implementing Dynamic Agroforestry (DAF) in Ecuador as a regenerative and sustainable approach to cocoa farming. This initiative integrates trees, shrubs, and crops in a multi-layered system, mimicking natural forest regrowth to enhance biodiversity, improve soil health, and strengthen farmer resilience.
Lindt & Sprüngli began piloting DAF in Ecuador in 2021 with technical support from ECOTOP. Following the successful implementation of demonstration plots and widespread farmer adoption, the approach was expanded in 2022. By the end of 2023, over 60 DAF demonstration plots had been established in Ecuador with two supplier partners.