Biodiversa / Oro Verde

Company Website

www.greengold-oroverde.org

Phase

: Worlds First EcoCertified Gold

Company Description

Oro Verde is a pioneer program that created the world’s first certification for gold and platinum produced using socially and environmentally responsible artisanal techniques.

+ The Company:
Biodiversa offers precious metals to consumers who value Biodiversity conservation and the well being of artisanal mining communities.
+ Purpose:
Biodiversa’s purpose is to improve the quality of life of artisanal miners and protect the biodiversity of the Colombian Chocó Bioregion, through the commercialization of Fairtrade & Fairmined precious metals.
+ Product:
• Oro Verde branded / Fairtrade & Fairmined certified gold and platinum.
• Carbon / Biodiversity credits traceable to territories in the Chocó ecoregion, a biodiversity hotspot.
+ Partners:
• Community councils of Tadó and Condoto are founding partners of Biodiversa
• Miner associations than benefit directly from value added in the auction
• AMICHOCO
• Fairtrade International
• ARM – Alliance for Responsible Mining

BUSINESS STRATEGY

Market and Consumer  Currently the demand of responsible precious metals is increasing as a result of the Fairtrade & Fairmined movement. In the UK alone 40 certified jewelers are on a waiting list to acquire certified metals. Our consumers have a high purchasing power and are willing to pay for products and services that contribute to sustainable development.  Sales and Marketing  Certified gold and platinum will be traded directly to the final consumer through exclusive online auctions. These auctions are promoted through social networks, ‘evangelists’ and media campaigns in targeted countries. The Oro Verde brand ensures consumers that their purchasing decision contributes to:  The conservation of crucial biodiversity: 4500 ha of tropical rainforest Income increase for mining communities -USD +200K Community empowerment Prevent the expansion of illegal mining and armed conflicts; Add value to the act of wearing or gifting jewelry (every piece tells a story).

Team (including key partners)

Cataliana Cock: Ashoka Fellow,Oro Verde Co-Founder,AMICHOCO Founder- Nicolas Cock: Oro Verde Co-Founder,AMICHOCO Founder- Felipe Arango:Biodiversa CEO- Ingrid Lozada: AMICHOCO Director- Sandra Hernandez: Biodiversa Commercial & Communications Manager - Key Partners: Leo Johnson, Hogan Lovells

Discussion

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