Tokenizing Fairness: Blockchain Loyalty App for Ethical Supply Chains
FairChain’s mission is ambitious yet clear: to fight exploitation, reduce carbon emissions, and promote fair, sustainable production by redesigning how global supply chains work. Partnering with brands like Moyee Coffee, the foundation needed digital tools that could make fairness measurable and traceable.
FairChain wanted to go beyond traditional certifications and charity. Their idea? Let every consumer not only see where their product comes from—but also become an active participant in the system. A token-based app would allow users to track their impact, send support directly to farmers, or fund climate-positive programs like tree planting. But to achieve this, they needed more than vision. They needed technology that would work in real-world conditions, including rural areas with limited internet access and outdated mobile devices.
Country
Netherlands, Kenia, Etiopia
Timeline
2022-ongoing
Industry
Green tech, sustainable agriculture, social agriculture
Our Solution
During initial workshops, we reviewed FairChain’s app ecosystem, evaluated the current technical landscape, and prioritized new functionality. Together, we mapped out a roadmap for a Loyalty & Impact app powered by blockchain and tailored to diverse stakeholders: farmers, consumers, store owners, and program managers.
Key Features Delivered:
Token economy logic: We defined how tokens are generated, transferred, and redeemed. Each transaction—whether a reward, a donation, or a store redemption—follows strict rules, securely tracked on the Algorand blockchain.
User role system: We implemented distinct account types (e.g. farmer, consumer, admin), each with specific permissions to ensure security and traceability.
Offline compatibility: In regions like Ethiopia and Kenya, internet access is scarce. To bridge this gap, we integrated SMS-based alerts using Africa’s Talking. For transactions like purchases or redemptions, users receive a unique alphanumeric code (replacing QR codes) to verify in-store pickup.
Environmental program integration: We co-developed a separate app and API to manage programs like Tree Planting. For every donated token, a coffee tree is planted—benefiting both the planet and local farmers’ income.
World-class technologies
Results & Business Value
Over 10,000 coffee trees planted, with measurable CO₂ reduction
€107,060 in direct farmer income generated through tokens
267,650 kg of CO₂ offset by tree-based carbon sequestration
A functional blockchain economy connecting consumers and farmers
Transparency from “seed to shelf,” boosting brand trust
Inclusive access—even for users without smartphones
By putting economic power directly into the hands of producers, FairChain is proving that sustainability and fairness can be scalable. The app doesn’t just support ethical trade—it makes it visible, actionable, and accountable.
Lessons Learned
Inclusivity matters: Designing for low-spec phones and offline use widened our reach
Simplicity wins: Alphanumeric codes outperformed QR in rural delivery scenarios
Shared value works: Tokenization builds trust by letting customers directly contribute
ESG + tech: Blockchain isn’t just hype—it can drive real-world sustainability impact