VIVE Sustainable Supply Programme and the Smartcane Best Management Practice program (BMP) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) confirming mutual recognition of sustainability alignment across their respective farm-level frameworks.
This agreement marks a significant milestone in promoting transparency, reducing duplication, and accelerating sustainable sourcing across Queensland’s sugarcane sector.
Smartcane BMP, developed by CANEGROWERS Australia and supported by the Queensland Government, is a voluntary, industry-led programme designed to help growers benchmark and improve practices in soil health, irrigation, pest management, and business stewardship. Since its launch in 2013, Smartcane BMP has become a cornerstone of responsible sugarcane production in Australia.
VIVE, a multi-commodity sustainability programme powered by Intellync and Czarnikow, brings over two decades of expertise in agricultural sustainability and supply chain engagement. Through this MoU, VIVE formally recognises that Smartcane BMP Modules 1–4 align with the core indicators of VIVE Version 5’s Independent Farms and Company-Owned Farms modules.
As of 3 July 2025, Smartcane BMP has verified that Module 4 (People and Business) meets full alignment criteria. Auditing against this updated module will commence in 2026. In the interim, VIVE will accept equivalency for growers certified to Modules 1, 2, and 3 for the 2025 crop year.
This alignment is the result of rigorous benchmarking conducted by independent third parties and jointly reviewed by both programmes in 2019, 2021, and 2025. It reflects a shared commitment to continuous improvement, environmental stewardship, and respect for human rights in agricultural production.
Ben French, Associate Director and VIVE Strategic Lead at Czarnikow, commented:
“This MoU underscores our dedication to recognising robust, locally driven sustainability initiatives. By aligning with Smartcane BMP, we are simplifying the verification process for growers while amplifying the importance of regional expertise and leadership in shaping resilient, transparent global supply chains.”
Dan Galligan, CANEGROWERS CEO, commented:
“This is not just a win for Smartcane BMP – it’s a win for every grower who’s kept records, met the standards and committed to continuous improvement,” Mr Galligan said.
“It confirms what we’ve said all along – that this program stands up globally. Now it’s recognised as such, and that brings real commercial opportunities.
We appreciate the willingness and encouragement of the VIVE programme to work with the BMP program and look forward to building on this achievement for the benefit of growers.”
Both parties will continue to maintain transparency in benchmarking methodology and update processes, ensuring stakeholders remain informed and engaged.
This MoU does not constitute a legal partnership but affirms a shared vision for sustainable agriculture and responsible sourcing.
