Alland & Robert raises hopes for sector progress on key social frameworks
Violaine Fauvarque, of Alland & Robert has specialised in sustainability. Pic: Alland & Robert
Ensuring corporate social responsibility goals within a company are met holds many challenges, as Violaine Fauvarque, head of CSR at Alland & Robert explores.
As CSR manager at Alland & Robert, a French company with international reach, I cannot and will not to be discouraged. I am constantly looking for solutions, whether close to our sites on the other side of the world – with support from the entire company.
Paralysing international context
Just as global momentum seemed to be building, the last few months have marked a shift. We have gone from believing that the ecological transition was gaining ground to seeing it rapidly reverse since early 2025.
The voices of those who want to strengthen measures to combat climate change are often drowned out by those who oppose them – whether to support global trade wars or make way for other pressing issues such as inflation and armed conflict. Climate change is, however, a major concern for all citizens around the world. In this context, lack of visibility prevents companies from making long-term commitments that are essential to help preserve the environment and combat climate change.
Weakened legislation
In Europe, it is hugely disappointing that the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which aims to improve the availability and quality of sustainability data, is being slashed.
In concrete terms, this means the exemption of 80% of companies that will no longer need to comply with the CSRD – including, to our great regret, Alland & Robert. This directive provided a framework to move forward. Standards contribute to better, fairer practices. This is the case for us at Alland & Robert. Many multinationals incorporate our acacia gums in their formulations. Customers ask us to meet demanding specifications. This encourages us to constantly raise our standards, particularly in relation to the company’s carbon footprint and energy transition.
Rekindling the desire to contribute
CSR issues are interconnected and require long-term thinking, which is undeniably a challenge in the current economic and geopolitical context. There are many cognitive biases that also contribute to inaction, from shifting responsibility to choosing marginal measures and focusing on costs. Our CSR efforts therefore need to focus on creating an appealing, hopeful vision, doing everything possible and highlighting the impact of our efforts. Our future depends on this.
In a world with fewer resources, managing land, protecting populations, adapting to global warming, investing to support the transition will depend on our collective governance and political courage. As well as the support and commitment of everyone involved in this transition. Working in CSR means supporting companies that assume their responsibilities towards their stakeholders and the planet.
This is why Alland & Robert looks beyond its carbon footprint. Issues such as ethics are interconnected, particularly in relation to our supply chain in Africa where we source raw materials. We have reinforced our Supplier Code of Conduct and work closely with local partners. Overcoming obstacles, such cultural differences and communication difficulties, we focus on making our dual mission a reality. Firstly, to preserve traditional know-how by supporting acacia gum harvesting and helping local communities become more resilient. Secondly, to develop natural, plant-based, low- carbon solutions that
contribute to healthier and more sustainable diets.
Our health, and the health of our planet are closely linked. This is why we continue to develop nutritious solutions for all, helping manufacturers replace synthetic ingredients with plant-based acacia gum. At Alland & Robert, this ongoing commitment is at the very heart of our corporate governance. With the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C now out of reach, it is more urgent than ever to reinforce our efforts and ensure our planet remains habitable. This challenge is more important than anything else. We must do everything possible to keep the 2°C threshold at bay.
