Good and Green
The Good and Green Podcast, hosted by sustainability advocate Chit Juan, was created for the purpose of helping social entrepreneurs overcome challenges and grow impactful ventures that drive meaningful change. Each week, we share the tools, strategies, and stories that empower changemakers to build businesses with purpose. Whether you're launching your dream social enterprise or looking for fresh inspiration, this podcast is your go-to space for practical insights and uplifting conversations. Let's create a brighter, more sustainable future together!
Good and Green
Episode 39: Organic Solutions Bringing New Hope to Filipino Farmers with Marco Schlüter
Organic farming is gaining new momentum in Southeast Asia, and the Philippines is beginning to feel that shift.
Chit Juan talks with Marco Schlüter, Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, about how organic markets emerge, what helps farmers transition successfully, and why restaurants and retailers play a crucial role in expanding access to organic products. Marco draws from decades of global experience, including his work with IFOAM, to explain the systems, training, and verification models that support sustainable agriculture. He also offers practical starting points for Filipinos who want to make organic part of their daily lives.
GUEST BIO:
Marco Schlüter is an international executive with more than 20 years of leadership experience in sustainable food systems and global market development. He serves as the Director for Strategy and International Affairs at Naturland, where he leads a €6M international department, developed Naturland’s first global strategy, and built teams across Southeast Asia, Africa, the US, and Europe. He is also Vice President of IFOAM – Organics International, shaping global policy and leadership development for the organic sector. His expertise spans strategic planning, sustainable supply chains, international organizational transformation, and capacity building for organic farming worldwide.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:
- Why organic demand is growing in Southeast Asia.
- How Naturland supports Filipino farmers transitioning to organic.
- The role of restaurants, hotels, and retailers in building organic markets.
- Why verification systems like PGS matter for local organic supply.
- How IFOAM strengthens global leadership and policy for organic farming.
- Simple ways consumers can begin living an organic lifestyle.
QUOTES:
- Naturland's vision is to shape the ecological transformation worldwide. —Marco Schlüter
- We believe in the need for innovation, for new knowledge. —Marco Schlüter
- We always enhance our cooperation, always to the benefit of nature and the farmers. —Marco Schlüter
- Organic is not input based. It's knowledge based, but not only in production, also on the leadership level. —Marco Schlüter
- What is important is that the government identifies organic as an opportunity. —Marco Schlüter
LINKS or RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Connect with Marco Schlüter:
- Naturland Philippines - https://www.naturland.ph
- Naturland Philippines on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/naturlandphilippines
- Naturland Philippines on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/naturland_philippines
- IFOAM Organics International - https://www.ifoam.bio
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