Ingenio San Antonio (ISA), a renowned agro-energetic mill established in Nicaragua in 1890, has garnered international acclaim for its pioneering efforts in sustainability. ISA has consistently upheld exemplary labor, social, and environmental practices, earning global recognition. In 2024, ISA’s groundbreaking Adelante Initiative was selected for an International Sustainability Awards for its significant contributions to responsible agriculture and worker health and safety standards.

A Tradition of Distinction and Inventiveness

Since its inception, ISA has evolved into one of the most modern agro-industrial companies in Nicaragua. As the first in the world to receive certifications from Bonsucro and Fair Trade USA for its labor, social, and environmental standards, ISA stands at the forefront of sustainable agro-industrial practices. The company’s vision is to be the world’s leading agro-industrial mill, excelling in efficiency, quality, and sustainability while generating prosperity for its employees, the community, and the environment.

The Adelante Initiative:

Launched in 2018, the Adelante Initiative is a collaborative project between ISA, La Isla Network, Bonsucro, Nicaragua’s Sugar Producers Association, and the German Investment and Development Company (DEG). This initiative addresses the global risks faced by workers in labor-intensive industries, focusing on occupational exposures such as heat stress exacerbated by climate change. By developing world-class occupational safety and health standards based on ISA’s experience, the Adelante Initiative sets a benchmark for other industries globally.

Key Highlights of the Adelante Initiative:

Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration: Involves partnerships with organizations such as La Isla Network, Bonsucro, and DEG.

Focus on Occupational Health: Researches and addresses global risks faced by workers, particularly in high-temperature environments.

World-Class Standards: Develops safety and health standards applicable across various industries.

Future Plans and Scalability

The Adelante Initiative’s relevance continues to grow as climate change increases global temperatures. ISA plans to scale the initiative beyond the sugar industry, with interest from sectors in Spain, Greece, and the U.S. In 2022, ISA shared its experience in the Prep4Change program, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, to improve occupational safety and health conditions in Central American industries.

The long-term goal of the Adelante Initiative is to foster global policy change, enhancing worker safety at company, market, governmental, and trade deal levels. By doing so, ISA aims to contribute significantly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to good health and well-being, decent work and economic growth, sustainable consumption and production, and partnerships for the goals.

Innovation and Recognition

The scientific approach of the Adelante Initiative, particularly the RSHS program, is innovative and provides measurable data to guide cross-industry occupational safety and health best practices. This program has influenced global standards, with Bonsucro adopting several guidelines from ISA’s program into their updated Production Standard in December 2023.

ISA’s commitment to sustainability and innovation has not gone unnoticed. The company’s efforts in improving labor practices, enhancing worker health and safety, and promoting environmental stewardship have set a new standard in the agro-industrial sector.

Promoting Sustainability and Knowledge Dissemination

The Adelante Initiative exemplifies ISA’s dedication to sustainability. By sharing lessons learned with other industries and updating international occupational health and safety standards, ISA promotes the widespread adoption of evidence-based health practices. The initiative supports the achievement of several SDGs, ensuring that sustainable and safe working conditions become a global norm.