The methodology strengthens how the sector collects, verifies and uses data, giving companies confidence that the cocoa in their supply chains is EUDR-compliant. It also reduces the risk of “false positives” in deforestation detection, helping farmers maintain access to key markets.

This image shows the methodology applied in Satelligence's platform, where cocoa plots have been assessed for deforestation risk since Dec. 31st, 2020.

“The WCF Deforestation Risk Assessment Methodology helps ready the cocoa sector for EUDR compliance. By fostering industry alignment and collective action, we’re enabling standardised, science-based best practice that delivers real impact”

Chris Vincent

President, World Cocoa Foundation

A Unified Approach to Deforestation Risk

The methodology standardises how cocoa companies assess and report deforestation risk by combining satellite data, farm polygons and forest baseline mapping in a single process. It allows companies to:

  • Evaluate cocoa plot data consistently across origins
  • Compare results with national and international forest datasets
  • Identify, monitor and mitigate deforestation risk with confidence

By aligning data sources and definitions, the methodology streamlines compliance, reduces duplication and improves efficiency across reporting systems.

What makes it uniques

Science-based

Globally aligned

Locally validated

Externally credible
Developed with global remote-sensing experts
Compatible with EUDR and other major policy frameworks
Tested with origin-country governments to ensure practicality
Recognised as the sector’s reference methodology for deforestation assessment

Next steps

WCF will continue refining the methodology with industry, governments and technical partners, integrating new datasets and geospatial innovations. This work supports WCF’s broader mission to harmonise data, strengthen compliance and ensure sustainable cocoa becomes the global standard.

Download the methodology

 

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