Community
Building Communities Through Social Forestry
We actively foster community empowerment through long-term partnerships, infrastructure development, and social forestry programs, creating sustainable livelihoods and enhancing the quality of life for local communities.
Our Community
Social Forestry Projects
Since 31 December 2015, we have been committed to identifying potential loss of HCS areas across our palm oil concessions in Indonesia. The analysis identified 967 ha requiring full recovery obligations to support environmental sustainability and benefit surrounding communities.
To address HCS loss, we have provided compensation through support for social forestry programmes in Seluma Regency, Bengkulu Province. These initiatives cover approximately 1,072 ha in Sinar Pagi Village,North Seluma District. AEP’s recovery efforts focus on protecting and restoring ecological functions while addressing social and economic aspects by developing alternative livelihoods and establishing community-based business units. The recovery plan is built around 4 key principles.
Additionality:
Seluma Regency has the highest poverty rate in Bengkulu Province, with poverty pockets near areas rich in natural resources and biodiversity.
Long-Lasting Impact:
The Recover Programme is implemented within the Social Forestry area, which grants communities legal access for 35 years, extendable thereafter.
Equitability:
The programme is developed and implemented collaboratively, involving local communities, national NGOs, local government, and the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.
Knowledge-Based Approach:
Using the Theory of Change framework, the programme is based on a thorough analysis of current and expected conditions, threats, and contributing factors.