Strategic Insights on Sustainable Palm Oil Development in Indonesia

Dr. Rosediana Suharto, a key figure in Indonesia’s palm oil industry, recently shared her expertise during a discussion with Dwi Sutoro, Director of Marketing at PTPN III. The conversation centered on challenges faced by the palm oil industry and the importance of sustainability, particularly under the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework.

Dr. Suharto’s notable contributions include establishing the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) certification in 2011, the first legally mandated system of its kind. This standard ensures environmentally responsible and socially equitable practices across Indonesia’s palm oil sector. With over three decades of experience, she continues to advocate for Indonesian palm oil on the global stage, ensuring its trade aligns with ethical and sustainable benchmarks.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of addressing key challenges such as land-use efficiency, environmental conservation, and community involvement in the palm oil supply chain. Sutoro emphasized PTPN III’s commitment to innovation and collaboration with public and private sectors to enhance operational sustainability.

Dr. Suharto underlined the need for strategic partnerships to promote ESG principles and uplift smallholder farmers. This approach not only drives economic growth but also ensures inclusivity in sustainability initiatives. By leveraging Dr. Suharto’s insights and PTPN’s resources, the conversation sets a clear path for advancing Indonesia’s palm oil industry into a greener, more sustainable future.