For years, the seed sector has focused on genetics, technology, productivity, and sustainability. But behind every innovation sits a global network of people — from field workers and growers to production teams, suppliers, and companies across the seed value chain. Could labor rights and ethical practices become the seed sector’s next major accountability issue?
That question sits at the centre of our interview with Ben Rivoire, the International Seed Federation’s Director for Sustainability and Crop Value Chain Engagement, filmed live at the 2026 World Seed Congress in Lisbon.
Why Is the Industry Acting Now?
At the 2026 World Seed Congress in Lisbon, the International Seed Federation (ISF) launched a new guidance document designed to help seed companies, growers, suppliers, and industry organizations strengthen labor practices and ethical standards across seed production.
According to Ben Rivoire, ISF’s Director for Sustainability and Crop Value Chain Engagement, many seed companies already maintain codes of conduct and workplace standards. What’s new is the industry’s decision to come together around a shared framework.
The new guidance brings together best practices from within the seed sector and across agriculture, giving organizations a practical resource they can use to benchmark and improve their own operations.
What’s Included?
The guidance addresses key topics such as:
- Health and safety
- Diversity and inclusion
- Working hours
- Ethical workplace practices
- Supplier engagement
- Social responsibility across seed production
ISF also provides an assessment checklist and online training resources to help organizations put the guidance into practice.
In the interview, Rivoire explains why ISF developed the guidance, why the timing matters, and what practical steps companies can take today. Watch the full conversation to learn why social responsibility has become a growing priority for the global seed sector.
