Growing Cashews and a Community

East Bali Cashews is a social enterprise that strives to make sustainable change and opportunities for the impoverished region of farmers in East Bali, Indonesia. The founder and traveler, Aaron Fishman felt the need to improve the quality of life of the people in rural East Bali, and began doing this by helping local farmers grow cashews. They sell food products with their cashews locally in Bali and have expanded across Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand and the US. 

EBC impacts the local farmers in East Bali by helping them generate profits and teaching them sustainable farming techniques. Farmers are able to create income by growing cash crops and being involved in other value-adding activities, such as Village Drying Centres. The drying centres allow extra space for cashew nuts to dry, which eliminates product loss and simultaneously helps farmers make extra income. 

EBC is creative and resourceful when it comes to eco-friendly energy. They use the leftover cashew shells to fuel their furnace for the steaming and drying process of cashews. The remaining biochar is then used as a carbon-rich fertilizer for their trees and plantations. Excess shells are given to other small businesses in the community where they are used for heat. This circular journey of the cashew nut is fascinating and ensures that there is little waste as possible. 

In short, I appreciate East Bali Cashews' focus around one local village. It helps lift people out of poverty, creates job opportunities, and teaches them sustainability and creativity. All of their activities improve the lives of one community. It makes me wonder why it seems like such a challenge to have more social businesses like EBC in other countries such as Canada.