FEASIBILITY STUDY
Innovating Conservation:
Reconciling Orangutan Habitat With Regenerative Palm Oil
In collaboration with Terra Genesis we were tasked by UK charity SOS Sumatra to conduct a feasibility study centered on developing wildlife corridors for Orangutans in natural forest areas that faced encroachment from palm oil farmers – a project reconciling oil palm development with wildlife habitat in Sumatra.
Services
context assessment
stakeholder engagement
capacity building
regenerative strategy
feasibility study
Partners
SOS Sumatra
TaHuKah
Faith in Nature
Terra Genesis
Project Context
Palm oil production is one of the most destructive agricultural practices globally, causing widespread ecosystem degradation and the wholesale loss of wildlife habitat. The Sumatran Orangutan Society (SOS Sumatra) is committed to protecting Sumatran orangutans and their rainforest habitat, with a special focus on mitigating the disastrous impacts of palm oil plantations in Sumatra.
This feasibility study explored what regenerative oil palm agroforestry would look like, with an emphasis on integrating habitat for Orangutans, the supply chain and chain of custody requirements, and developing an investment case for palm oil buyers – for the development of a pilot project.
Process
Our approach began with a comprehensive context assessment, ensuring a thorough understanding of the local environment and challenges. We prioritized aligning with local stakeholders, including farmers, local partners, and officials, to build strong, collaborative relationships for long-term success. Our work included an in-depth assessment of the oil palm supply chain, identifying key areas for stakeholder led interventions as well as financial investment. Additionally, we identified critical partnerships with chain of custody partners, to ensure transparency, traceability, and compliance throughout the entire supply chain, from production to market.
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Stakeholder Engagement
Achieving lasting regenerative outcomes requires a long-term vision, commitment, and a shift to a new collaborative paradigm. It’s essential that all key stakeholders—particularly buyers and producers—are aligned on long-term goals, approaches and key aspects required to regenerate the agricultural systems they are working on. We engage all stakeholders in a foundational process that develops their ability to think and operate from a regenerative perspective. Stakeholder engagement is critical because it builds the trust, mutual understanding and healthy relationships that are required for long-term project success.
Context Assessment
The process of regeneration looks differently in every context. This is because each place comes with its unique set of opportunities, constraints and potential. In order to design regenerative solutions, it is key to develop a deep understanding of the place where we work. In practice this typically involves remote assessments, site visits, technical analysis, and ongoing, in-depth engagement with partners on the ground. Developing a deep understanding of the context is essential to identify key ‘nodal’ intervention points: areas that have most need or potential for impact. The unique opportunities and constraints of a context also inform the practices that are appropriate to bring about the desired outcomes.
Supply System Assessment
A supply system assessment provides valuable insights into the current sourcing practices and identifies opportunities for improvement. By evaluating the entire supply chain, it enables clients to pinpoint key areas for transitioning towards regenerative sourcing, ensuring greater sustainability, traceability, and long-term resilience. This assessment helps clients align their supply systems with ecological goals while optimizing efficiency and reducing environmental impact.
Feasibility Study
A feasibility study is essential for assessing the practical and financial viability of transitioning to regenerative agricultural systems. Through a detailed analysis of land, resources, and market conditions, it enables clients to understand potential risks, opportunities, and required investments. This process equips clients with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, reduce uncertainties, and strategically plan for a successful shift towards regenerative practices.
Outcomes
In-depth Assessment of Pilot Project Requirements & Regulatory Compliance
Mapping and assessment of Supply Chain, Chain of Custody, and EUDR requirements for smallholder palm oil production
Project Proposal for CPGs (Faith in Nature) as Buying Partners for Regenerative Palm Oil
Development of project outline and minimum viable criteria for first phase of regenerative supply system development
Criteria for Establishment and Scaling of Project on Commercial Scale
Outlining the necessary conditions and criteria for project success, including development of key supply system partnerships, and investment requirements
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Innovating Conservation: Reconciling Orangutan Habitat With Regenerative Palm Oil
SOS Sumatra | Faith in Nature
Conducting a study to assess the feasibility of integrating wildlife corridors for orangutans with regenerative palm oil agroforestry in Sumatra
