Full Breakdown
Major Chocolate Brands Linked to Deforestation in Liberia
11/26/2025, 12:50:03 PM
Cocoa Export Surge and Environmental Impact
A recent report by Global Witness highlights a troubling connection between major chocolate brands and deforestation in Liberia, home to the largest remaining stretch of the Upper Guinean rainforest. The country has experienced significant forest loss, with approximately 250,000 hectares (618,000 acres) of forest disappearing between 2021 and 2024 in its primary cocoa-producing regions, known as the "cocoa belt." This surge in cocoa exportation is attributed to high cocoa prices and crop failures in neighboring cocoa-producing nations, prompting an expansion of cocoa farms.
Corporate Involvement and Practices
The report implicates several corporate giants, including Hershey, Mondelez (Cadbury), Nestle, Unilever, and Mars, in the purchase of cocoa linked to deforestation. Global Witness asserts that these companies often mix traceable, certified cocoa with untraceable beans, allowing them to label their products as sustainable despite the environmental impact. Charlie Hammans, an investigator with Global Witness, stated, "Big brands are buying untraceable bulk cocoa that hides a massive deforestation footprint."
Legislative Context and Future Implications
The findings come at a critical time as the European Parliament is set to vote on delaying the implementation of a law aimed at banning imports of products contributing to deforestation until the end of 2026. This legislation would require companies selling in Europe to demonstrate that their products, including chocolate, are fully traceable and free from deforestation. The urgency of this law is underscored by the ongoing environmental degradation linked to cocoa production in Liberia.
Broader Environmental Concerns
In addition to cocoa, Global Witness identifies small-scale agriculture, mining, palm oil, and rubber production as significant contributors to forest loss in Liberia. The combination of these industries poses a serious threat to the country's biodiversity, which includes endangered species such as chimpanzees and forest elephants.
Criticism and Opposition
Environmental advocates have raised concerns about the practices of major chocolate companies and their role in deforestation. Critics argue that the current certification programs are insufficient to ensure sustainability and that companies must take more responsibility for their supply chains to prevent further environmental degradation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Big brands are buying untraceable bulk cocoa that hides a massive deforestation footprint” — Charlie Hammans, Investigator, Global Witness
The report by Global Witness serves as a call to action for both consumers and policymakers to address the environmental impacts of cocoa production and to hold corporations accountable for their sourcing practices.
