The Accountability Framework initiative (AFi) is a collaborative programme to protect forests, other natural ecosystems, and human rights by making responsible commodity production and trade the new normal. The initiative is led by the AFi Coalition, coordinated by the Backbone Team secretariat, and guided by the perspectives of companies, industry groups, and financial institutions.
The AFi Coalition
At the heart of the AFi is a Coalition of diverse civil society organisations from around the world dedicated to protecting forests, other natural ecosystems, and human rights. It is responsible for reviewing and approving the content of the Accountability Framework, and co-creating the strategic direction and implementation of the AFi in partnership with the Backbone Team. The Coalition also supports use of the Framework by companies and other key stakeholders to drive positive impact in the agriculture and forestry sectors.
The AFi Backbone Team
The Backbone Team is the AFi’s secretariat. Members are hosted at Rainforest Alliance. Its roles include:
- Coordinating and supporting joint activities of the AFi Coalition
- Facilitating decision-making processes
- Supporting the development of Framework materials and resources
- Assisting users in applying the Framework
- Leading communications
- Administering the AFi programme
Private Sector Advisory Group
The Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG) is a consultative body that consists of representatives of companies, industry groups, and financial institutions focused on the agriculture or forestry sectors. The group advises the AFi on how it can add the greatest value in helping the private sector address issues of deforestation, ecosystem conversion, and human rights violations in commodity supply chains. As an advisory group, the PSAG does not participate in AFi decision-making. PSAG members serve in an individual capacity, and do not necessarily represent the views of their employers.
Private Sector Advisory Group members
- Sarah Colombie, BNP Paribas
- Barbara de Penanster, Danone
- Hillary Fenrich, McDonald’s
- Autumn Fox, Mars
- Matt Inbusch, World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD)
- Emily Kunen, PepsiCo
- Juliana Lopes, Amaggi
- Michel Santos, Bunge
- Olivier Tichit, Musim Mas
- Anton van den Brink, European Feed Manufacturers’ Federation (FEFAC)
Funders
The Accountability Framework initiative currently receives funding from:
