Asia Pulp & Paper (APP) Sinar Mas has embarked on an unyielding journey to protect and conserve biodiversity. Through our Sustainability Roadmap Vision 2030 (SRV 2030), we have aligned our goals with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), implementing strategies that resonate with our commitment to responsible consumption, climate action, and biodiversity. In this exploration, we will uncover Asia Pulp & Paper’s diverse strategies, showcasing our dedication to wildlife protection, rare tree species conservation, and the restoration of forest areas in Indonesia.
Aligning with Global Sustainability Goals
Under SRV 2030’s Conservation & Biodiversity pillar, Asia Pulp & Paper acts to meet the UN’s SDGs, specifically aligning with Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), Goal 13 (Climate Action), and Goal 15 (Life on Land). With a concerted focus on protecting wildlife, restoring forests, and conserving High Conservation Value (HCV) and High Carbon Stock (HCS) areas, we have implemented various strategies within SRV 2030 to meet these critical global goals.
Wildlife Protection Initiatives at APP
Asia Pulp & Paper prioritises the protection of three key animal species – the Sumatran tiger, the Sumatran elephant, and the orangutans (all three subspecies), as well as 10 rare tree species. To mitigate human-wildlife conflict, we monitor animal distribution within our suppliers’ concession areas, maintain wildlife maps, and construct feeding pockets and salt licks. Our collaboration with local conservation offices allows for animal relocation, and we regularly conduct sweeping operations to remove snares. As of 2020, our efforts have encompassed 71 Sumatran tigers, 278 Sumatran elephants, and 92 orangutans.
APP’s Commitment to Rare Tree Species
At Asia Pulp & Paper, we recognise the importance of rare tree species and have fostered collaborations with local communities and governmental agencies. Through community empowerment programmes and partnerships with the Ministry of Environment and Forestry’s R&D team, we have contributed to the conservation of Ramin trees, Shorea trees, and five other repopulated tree species, ensuring quality seedlings through certified Kulim and Ramin seed stands.
Forest Restoration and Conservation Measures by APP
Asia Pulp & Paper’s approach to climate change includes restoring degraded natural forests in our concession areas, conserving HCV and HCS areas, and implementing best practices in peatland management. As of 2020, we have maintained 79% of natural forest in good condition and have restored 24,401 hectares, in collaboration with international research universities. Our forest cover change dashboard publicly avails the data, reflecting our transparent and dedicated efforts.
Looking Forward with APP
At Asia Pulp & Paper, we will stay resolute in our dedication to wildlife protection, promoting their harmonious coexistence with human communities. Our continuous efforts to conserve HCV and HCS areas, safeguard forests, and pursue sustainability underscores our role as conscientious stewards in the paper industry.
Through the highlighting of our multifaceted initiatives, we aspire to motivate others to walk with us on this sustainability path. Our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship embodies our overarching ambition to cultivate a sustainable and responsible future for all.