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Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) In today's global marketplace, businesses across the seafood supply chain are increasingly recognising the value of the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) certification. Whether you're a seafood processor, trader, brand, or retailer, the ASC label is a powerful tool that can elevate your reputation and ensure your products meet the highest standards of sustainability. Why Choose ASC Certified Seafood? Our supply chain partners around the globe are driving change towards sustainable seafood. Displaying the ASC label on your products demonstrates to customers that your seafood comes from responsible farmers, enhancing your reputation and providing flexibility in sourcing. Boost Your Sales The ASC label is highly recognised and trusted by consumers and industry professionals worldwide, significantly boosting your seafood sales opportunities. On average, 75% of consumers across 12 markets trust the ASC label, making it a crucial element in your marketing strategy. Assurance of Quality The ASC label guarantees that your product is traceable back to seafood farms that operate responsibly. This assurance builds trust with your customers, ensuring they can trace their seafood to its source, fostering a connection to sustainable practices. Supply Security and Flexibility With ASC certification, you gain access to a network of certified seafood species from all origins around the globe. This ensures a secure and flexible supply of certified seafood, enabling you to meet market demands effectively. The Certification Process Obtaining ASC certification involves a rigorous process that ensures your seafood products are traceable and separated from non-certified products. Here's how you can get your company certified through a third-party audit: Understand the Standards: The Chain of Custody Standard applies to the full supply chain, from certified farms to products carrying the ASC label. Prepare for Certification: Engage with a certification body and prepare your operations for the audit. Third-Party Audit: Undergo a thorough assessment by an independent conformity assessment body. Start Trading: Once certified, you can trade ASC-certified seafood and proudly use the ASC label to communicate your commitment to sustainability. The ASC Advantage Choosing ASC certification not only validates your efforts towards sustainable and socially responsible seafood production but also opens up numerous benefits, including: Enhanced Reputation: Consumers and partners view your business as a leader in sustainability. Market Access: Enter markets where environmental and social credibility is crucial. Livelihood Protection: Support sustainable practices that ensure long-term resource availability. Promotional Opportunities: Leverage the ASC label in marketing campaigns to attract conscientious consumers. Diverse Species Coverage ASC certification covers a wide range of species, including Abalone, Bivalvia, Freshwater Trout, Pangasius, Salmon, Seaweed, Seabass, Seabream, Meagre, Seriola, cobia, Shrimp, and Tilapia. Each species is audited against stringent standards to ensure compliance with ASC’s rigorous environmental and social criteria. Global Applicability ASC standards apply globally and accommodate all locations and scales of operation, from marine to land-based farms. Businesses seeking certification must have a minimum of 18 months of operation or one harvest cycle and maintain detailed performance records, licenses, technical documents, and employment contracts. Get Started Today Ready to take the first step towards ASC certification? Partner with experts like Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia, who offer comprehensive consulting services to prepare you for ASC standards. From project preparation and awareness training to system manual development and audit support, they ensure your business is fully prepared for a successful certification audit. Embrace sustainability and elevate your business with ASC certification. Visit our website to learn more about the consultancy and certification process and connect with our network of experts who will guide you every step of the way. Make the commitment today and join the global movement towards responsible aquaculture. Your journey to a sustainable future starts here!

Opening of the 10th World Water Forum The 10th World Water Forum in Bali, inaugurated by President Joko Widodo on May 18, 2024, was a critical meeting for global stakeholders focused on the future of water management. The presence of President-elect Prabowo Subianto highlighted the forum's significance to Indonesia. The event began with the Segara Kerthi ceremony, a symbolic respect for water as a source of life. Cultural Events and Gala Dinner A highlight of the forum was the Gala Dinner at the Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park (GWK). The evening featured artistic performances of music and dance reflecting Indonesia's cultural richness. The dinner was uniquely accompanied by the Sape music performance by Ayuan Prawida, enhancing the attendees' experience in Bali. International Presence and Technological Contributions Technology mogul Elon Musk from the United States not only launched the Starlink internet service but also discussed the potential of desalination and other technologies in addressing water issues. His presence underscored the importance of technological innovation within the framework of water resource management. Outcomes and Declaration The forum resulted in an ambitious Ministerial Declaration including several key points: Establishment of a Center of Excellence on Water and Climate Resilience in the Asia Pacific. Proposal for the celebration of World Lake Day. Creation of a Global Water Fund to support sustainable water financing. Commitment to 113 projects worth a total of US$9.4 billion to enhance clean water access and wastewater management. Numerous additional outcomes from this forum are available at https://worldwaterforum.org/ Closing of the Forum and Cultural Activities Minister of Public Works and Housing, Basuki Hadimuljono, concluded the forum with a call for continued collaboration and preparations for the next forum in Saudi Arabia. The closing was followed by Cultural Nights at Taman Baghawan, where participants enjoyed local cuisine, performances, and showcase products. This was not just a farewell event but also a display of Indonesia's cultural diversity. Conclusion and Future Implications The 10th World Water Forum has set a new focus on collaboration, innovation, and sustainability in water management. With increasing global challenges, the forum emphasized the importance of integrating knowledge and resources, marking a significant step forward in ensuring that water, as a human right, remains protected and sustainable.

Why is it Important to Know About Your Carbon Footprint? Your daily carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by your activities. From driving to work to switching on the lights at home, every action contributes to your environmental impact. By understanding how everyday activities contribute to your carbon footprint, we can take real steps towards reducing emissions and combating climate change. Primary Sources of Your Daily Carbon Carbon Footprint Land and Air Transport: Motor vehicles are a major source of individual carbon emissions, particularly in urban areas with high ownership rates. These vehicles, along with air travel, contribute significantly to emissions. Aviation is particularly carbon-intensive, with substantial emissions per kilometre travelled by each passenger, making it a significant factor in the global carbon footprint calculation. Home Energy Use: The energy used to power household appliances such as air conditioners, heaters, lights, and electronic devices often comes from power plants still reliant on fossil fuels, significantly contributing to your carbon footprint. Food Consumption Habits: Our dietary choices have a substantial impact on our carbon footprint. Food production, especially beef, requires a significant amount of energy and produces a significant amount of greenhouse gases during animal husbandry, processing, and distribution. Imported meats, for example, add to the carbon footprint due to the long distances transported. From the three everyday things mentioned above, the use of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas in transportation, industry, and power generation is a major contributor to carbon emissions. Burning these materials releases large amounts of CO2, methane, and other greenhouse gases directly into the atmosphere, exacerbating global warming. Environmental Impact of Your Daily Carbon Footprint A high carbon footprint has direct and damaging consequences for the planet. Increased emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases raise global temperatures, which leads to changes in weather patterns and increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as storms, floods, and droughts. These impacts disrupt food production, damage ecosystems, spread new diseases to previously unaffected areas, and increase the frequency and severity of natural disasters. Rising temperatures also cause polar ice melting, increasing sea levels that threaten coastal and island regions. Calculating Your Daily Carbon Footprint Calculating your carbon footprint involves understanding how much greenhouse gas is produced by each of your activities: Carbon Footprint= (Total Greenhouse Gas Emissions)×(Global Warming Potential Index) For example, if an activity produces 1 kg of methane, which has a GWP 28 times greater than CO2, then: 1kg CH4 × 28 = 28kg CO2e Strategies to Reduce Your Daily Carbon Footprint Sustainable Transportation: Walking, cycling, public transport, or electric vehicles can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of personal transport and flights. Household Energy Efficiency: Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances, use programmable thermostats and harness renewable energy sources like solar panels. Sustainable Food Consumption: Reducing meat consumption, especially beef, and choosing local products that require less transportation can decrease the carbon footprint associated with your diet. Conclusion: Our Collective Role Understanding and reducing our carbon footprint is a crucial step in fighting climate change. Every action, no matter how small, helps in minimising our impact on the planet. With increased awareness and effort, we can all contribute to creating a more sustainable future together.

The Green Gold Label (GGL) certification has emerged as a globally recognized standard in ensuring the sustainability of biomass production and usage. Established in 2002, GGL now stands as one of the oldest biomass certification schemes with a robust reputation for certifying, tracking, and tracing sustainable biomass products. Why is GGL (Green Gold Label) Certification Critical? GGL certification offers several crucial advantages in the biomass industry. First, it ensures that biomass is sourced and produced in an environmentally responsible manner, supporting biodiversity conservation, land stewardship, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Secondly, it provides biomass producers access to broader markets, particularly in the bioenergy and bioproduct sectors, where buyers prioritize sustainability. Moreover, compliance with national and international regulations is more assured. This helps companies avoid legal risks and potential sanctions related to non-compliance. Additionally, certification under the GGL standard can enhance a company's reputation as a committed environmental steward. How Does GGL Guarantee Biomass Sustainability? The GGL program encompasses not only woody biomass but also agricultural residues, waste wood, and bioliquids. Each transaction between GGL-certified companies is accompanied by a transaction certificate, ensuring that every link in the supply chain meets established standards. Audits are conducted annually by accredited independent certification bodies to maintain the credibility and integrity of the certification. The scheme has also been recognized by the Japanese government, where GGL-certified biomass complies with the FIT (Feed-in Tariff) and FIP (Feed-in Premium) schemes managed by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan. This indicates a high level of international trust in GGL as an effective tool in promoting sustainable biomass use. The Future of GGL-Certified Biomass With over seven million tons of biomass certified over 14 years, GGL continues to support the development of sustainable biomass for energy, power production, and chemicals. Its global acceptance affirms its position as a practical and credible certification scheme, leading the industry into a new era where sustainability is not just a necessity but an obligation. Ensure Your GGL Certification Preparation! For companies interested in obtaining Green Gold Label (GGL) certification, it is crucial to ensure that all aspects of your business are compliant with the standards required for certification before applying. To ascertain this readiness, Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia, specializing in certification consultancy, is prepared to guide and assist you through every step towards achieving your certification goals. We understand the importance of this certification for the advancement and credibility of your business. Contact us today through this link to discuss further our GGL consultancy services and how we can help you reach your sustainability objectives.

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, President Joko Widodo welcomed Norwegian Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, and his delegation to the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta to discuss Indonesia’s climate goals. This significant meeting underscored the ongoing partnership between Indonesia and Norway in tackling climate change, particularly in achieving the Forestry and Other Land Use (FOLU) Net Sink 2030 target. The primary discussion revolved around the FOLU Net Sink 2030 target, which aims for a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from forestry and other land use. Minister of Environment and Forestry, Siti Nurbaya Bakar, who accompanied President Jokowi, highlighted that Indonesia has already received substantial international recognition and financial support for its climate action efforts. She explained that the main goal discussed was the Forestry and Other Land Use Net Sink 2030 and that Indonesia had received a significant contribution, approximately USD 156 million, which is equivalent to around 30.2 million tons of carbon. Minister Siti Nurbaya detailed the success of Indonesia’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions from 2020 to 2023. She noted that emissions had decreased by 945 million tons in 2020, 889 million tons in 2021, 875 million tons in 2022, and although the figures for 2023 were still being calculated, she anticipated that the decrease would be even lower due to the El Niño event that year. Despite these challenges, the emissions reduction remained well over 810 million tons annually, indicating that the reduction percentages were 48%, 43%, 41%, and approximately 40%, consistently exceeding the initial target of 31.89%. With international cooperation, the target could reach up to 43%. At the same event, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani emphasized the importance of good governance in managing environmental funds and highlighted Indonesia’s reputation as pivotal in attracting international support. She stressed that the trust generated toward governance and fund management based on results underscored that it was not only about the money but, most importantly, about Indonesia’s reputation for managing its own environmental sustainability, which is crucial for its people. Norwegian Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen expressed his admiration for Indonesia's significant achievements in reducing deforestation by 90% and its ambitious land rehabilitation efforts. He commented that Indonesia had made significant and outstanding progress in recent years regarding deforestation. The efforts in reducing deforestation by 90% and ambitiously rehabilitating towards the 2030 FOLU Net Sink target were accomplishments that he believed the world should and must recognize. This bilateral meeting not only highlighted the fruitful cooperation between Indonesia and Norway but also reinforced both nations' commitment to addressing global climate challenges through impactful environmental governance.

Sustainable Business Practices Facing challenges from community concerns about dust pollution and noise generated during milling processes, a rice milling factory in South Sulawesi has come under scrutiny. Local residents report that dust from the factory has covered their homes and farmlands, while the noise from factory operations, especially at night, has disrupted their sleeping patterns and daily activities. In addressing these issues, the factory has an opportunity to revise its operational practices and strengthen its relationship with the local community. This step will not only respond to existing complaints but also reposition their operational base for a more sustainable and responsible future. Here are some integrated recommendations for sustainable improvements to help the company build a more responsible and sustainable business practices. Strategic Recommendations 1. Implementation of Pollution Control Technology: Invest in advanced technology for air filtration and dust capture systems to reduce the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also demonstrates to the community the company’s genuine efforts to address pollution issues. 2. Factory Sound Insulation Upgrade: Implement effective insulation solutions to limit the noise generated by factory operations, reducing disturbances to the local community and improving the work environment for employees. 3. Optimisation of Operating Hours: Review and adjust operating hours to reduce activity during sensitive times, such as night hours, which can help lessen the noise impact on the surrounding community. 4. Community Engagement and Dialogue: The factory and the local community should regularly hold open forums to discuss issues, solutions, and developments. This engagement strengthens relationships and builds trust. 5. Proactive Monitoring and Reporting: Provide a transparent environmental monitoring system and perform regular public reporting. Clarity and consistency in reporting demonstrate the company’s dedication to continuous improvement. 6. Adoption of Environmental Certifications: As an extension of the above steps, adopting certifications like ISO 14001 can systematize environmental management. This process involves a thorough evaluation of operational practices, ensuring that implemented initiatives are effective and providing a framework for continuous improvement. Such certifications not only bolster the company’s efforts but also enhance its reputation and trust among external stakeholders. Conclusion and Call to Action Recognising the importance of sustainability and corporate responsibility, it is crucial for companies to ensure they are prepared before undergoing certification audits. Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia offers sustainability consultancy, assisting companies in preparing documentation and operational strategies in line with certification criteria. Visit us through this link to initiate a consultation and advance further in your commitment to sustainability.

Critical Mineral Supply In the shadow of advancing green technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, and solar panels, a looming challenge presents itself—the potential shortfall of critical minerals essential for these technologies. The International Energy Agency (IEA) highlights the urgent need for increased long-term investments to secure a stable supply of these minerals, essential for a seamless transition to clean energy. The Growing Demand Versus Supply Discrepancy The IEA's recent report sheds light on a critical issue: the projected demand for essential metals like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper will soon outstrip supply if significant measures are not taken. Although metal prices saw a dip in 2023, easing market pressures, this short-term decrease masks the looming long-term challenges. For instance, the expected global supply of lithium is set to meet only half the demand by 2035, with copper faring slightly better, fulfilling just over two-thirds of the demand. The Role of Investment and Innovation To combat these challenges, the IEA estimates that approximately $800 billion in mining investments will be required by 2040. This investment will support the extraction and processing of these critical minerals, ensuring they can meet the burgeoning demand from the clean energy sector. Moreover, the report emphasises the pivotal role of recycling in reducing the need for raw mineral extraction. Enhanced recycling technologies and practices could decrease new supply requirements by up to 30% by 2040. The Necessity of Recycling and Behavioural Changes While traditional base metals like aluminium have established recycling processes, the recycling of newer, high-demand minerals such as lithium and nickel remains insufficient. These materials are crucial for battery storage and clean energy applications but are currently under-recycled. Promoting behavioural changes and innovative recycling technologies will be crucial in addressing this deficiency. Conclusion As we edge closer to a cleaner energy future, the need for a robust and reliable supply chain for critical minerals becomes more apparent. While the recent reduction in metal prices has provided temporary relief to consumers and driven down costs in industries like battery manufacturing, it also poses risks to the sustainability of long-term mineral supply. Strategic investments and a strong focus on innovation in mining and recycling are essential to ensuring that the clean energy transition is both achievable and sustainable.

Plastic waste is a global crisis. Mountains of discarded plastics pollute our oceans, choke our landfills, and threaten our wildlife. As the world grapples with this pressing issue, the need for sustainable solutions has never been more urgent. This is where RecyClass, a non-profit, cross-industry initiative, steps in, leading the charge towards a circular plastic future. What is RecyClass? RecyClass stands for Scientific Findings, Transparency, Reliability, and Traceability. It is a comprehensive initiative that enhances plastic packaging recyclability while ensuring the traceability of plastic waste and recycled plastic content across Europe. By focusing on these core principles, RecyClass aims to make the plastic industry more sustainable and environmentally friendly. How Does RecyClass Work? RecyClass is at the forefront of developing scientific testing methods for innovative materials. These testing results are incorporated into the Design for Recycling Guidelines and the free RecyClass Online Tool. Additionally, RecyClass has created a system for the reliable traceability of plastic waste's origin and the calculation and verification of recycled content in plastic products. RecyClass Certifications For companies committed to advancing the circular plastic journey, RecyClass offers several certifications: 1. Recyclability Certification: Design for Recycling Certification: Classifies the technical recyclability of final plastic packaging, graded from A to F. This assessment can be performed by all recognized Certification Bodies. Recyclability Rate Certification: Assesses the effective recyclability of final plastic packaging in a specific geographical area. Certification availability depends on the region. Letter of Compatibility: Evaluate the recyclability of semi-finished packaging. This assessment is also performed by recognized Certification Bodies. Stages to Obtain Recyclability Certification: 1. Check Your Eligibility: - Ensure your packaging design aligns with the RecyClass Design for Recycling Guidelines and is in its final market form. Semi-finished packaging can receive a Letter of Compatibility. 2. Choose a Certification Body: - Contact a recognized Certification Body, such as Control Union, to guide you through the process. 3. Sign a Certification Agreement: - Officialize your application by signing a Certification Agreement and NDA. Provide the necessary documentation for assessment. 4. Organize an Audit: - The Certification Body conducts an audit. Upon successful completion, a certificate valid for three years is granted. 5. Use RecyClass Logos: - Certified organizations can use the RecyClass logo to raise awareness and demonstrate their commitment to recyclability. 2. Recycling Processes Certification: Certification Scheme for Pre-consumer and Post-consumer Plastic Recycling Processes: Demonstrates the quality of recycling processes and transparently communicates the origin of waste. Aligned with EN 15343:2007 and ISO 22095:2020 standards, this certification fosters trust among the plastics value chain actors. Benefits: Attests to high recycling standards. Brings transparency to the origin of plastic waste. Facilitates compliance with EU legislative requirements. Promotes credibility in plastic recycling processes. Increases trust among consumers and suppliers. Scope: Applicable to any recycling facility capable of recycling pre- and post-consumer plastic waste with the necessary permits. 3. Recycled Plastic Traceability Certification: Ensures the traceability of recycled plastics within a process and verifies the recycled plastic content percentage in products. The certification aligns with EN 15343 and ISO 22095 standards. Stages to Obtain Recycled Plastic Traceability Certification: 1. Check Your Eligibility: - Ensure your recycler(s) are certified with the RecyClass Recycling Process Certification or an equivalent certification, and your product is made of plastics. 2. Choose a Certification Body: - Contact a recognized Certification Body to obtain the Application Form and guide you through the process. 3. Sign a Certification Agreement: - Officialize your application by signing a Certification Agreement and NDA. Provide the necessary documentation for assessment. 4. Organize an Audit: - The Certification Body conducts an on-site audit. Upon successful completion, a certificate valid for one year is granted. 5. Use RecyClass Logos: - Certified organizations can use the RecyClass logo to raise awareness and demonstrate their commitment to traceability. Join the Effort for Sustainable Plastics If you are interested in joining the effort for sustainable plastics for Earth, consider obtaining a RecyClass certification. Before that, ensure your company's readiness for the certification process. At Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia, we are here to guide you every step of the way. We provide comprehensive support to help you meet all requirements and offer the best solutions tailored to your needs. Contact us now to embark on your journey toward a circular plastic future. Together, we can make a difference.

Singapore Rising Temperatures and Urban Heat Island Effect From 2016 to 2021, Singapore experienced a significant rise in temperatures, attributed largely to the urban heat island effect. In this phenomenon, urban areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities. This effect is exacerbated by the extensive use of concrete and asphalt, which absorb and retain heat, coupled with the decline in natural green spaces. Historical Context of Singapore’s Urban Greening Historically, Singapore has been a pioneer in urban greening, starting with the "Garden City" initiative in the 1960s under former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew. This initiative aimed to transform the harsh urban landscape into a lush, green environment, improving the quality of life and enhancing the city’s global reputation. Over the decades, this vision evolved into the "City in a Garden" plan and, more recently, the "City in Nature" vision, focusing on restoring natural areas and creating interconnected green spaces. Loss of Secondary Forests and Habitat Destruction One of the critical issues is the loss of secondary forests, which comprise about 20% of Singapore’s land area. These forests, grown over abandoned kampungs (villages), serve as vital habitats for wildlife and help mitigate urban heat. However, they are not protected by law and are increasingly being cleared for housing, industrial estates, and infrastructure projects. A scientific paper published last year warned that Singapore could lose 7,331 hectares of secondary forest—about 10% of the island—over the next 10-15 years due to urban development plans. Efforts to Combat Urban Heat Island Effect To combat the urban heat island effect, Singapore has implemented several initiatives, such as constructing wildlife bridges over arterial roads and launching the "One Million Trees" tree-planting scheme. However, local conservationists argue that these efforts are insufficient compared to the rate of forest loss and urban expansion. They also express concerns about genetic bottlenecking in isolated wildlife populations, which can lead to inbreeding and decreased genetic diversity. Health Risks and Human Impact The increasing heat not only affects the environment but also poses significant health risks. The urban heat island effect, combined with global warming, has led to extreme temperatures that make outdoor work perilous. An average of 34 migrant workers have died yearly in work-related incidents in Singapore since 2020, with heat stroke being a contributing factor. By the end of the century, maximum daily temperatures in Singapore are projected to reach an average of 35°C to 37°C, up from today’s average of 28.6°C. Impact on Fertility Rates Extreme heat also impacts Singapore’s fertility rate, which has declined from 1.8 children per couple in 1980 to less than one child per couple in 2023. Heat stress has been found to lower sperm count, further complicating efforts to address the country's low fertility rate. Lessons for Regional Development Singapore’s experience offers valuable lessons for other cities in the region, such as Indonesia’s new capital in East Kalimantan. As Indonesia develops its "sustainable forest city," it must consider the environmental impacts of urban expansion, including deforestation, biodiversity loss, and urban heating. Conclusion: Balancing Development with Environmental Protection While Singapore continues to be a model of urban development, it is crucial to remember that forests are not just patches of land waiting to be developed. They play a vital role in maintaining a livable environment for both people and wildlife. As urban planners in Singapore and beyond look to the future, balancing development with environmental protection will be key to creating sustainable, resilient cities.

IPA Convex 2024 The 48th IPA Convention and Exhibition (IPA Convex 2024), held at ICE BSD in Tangerang, is not merely an annual event but a significant convergence point for the oil and gas industry. With global energy demands escalating, the industry faces a critical challenge to bolster exploration and production to ensure a reliable energy supply. This convention highlighted the intensified efforts required to fortify national energy resilience. Government Initiatives: Auctions and Attractive Incentives Minister Arifin Tasrif provided a comprehensive update on the government's strategy to attract investments into the oil and gas sector. He announced the auction of five strategic oil and gas blocks, coupled with appealing incentives to stimulate business investments. These incentives include advantageous tax facilities and appealing terms and conditions aimed at enhancing the sector's economic attractiveness. Regulatory Enhancements and Shifts Towards Renewable Energy Minister Tasrif elaborated on the nearing completion of crucial revisions to Government Regulations No. 27 and 53 of 2017, aimed at fine-tuning the regulatory framework better to accommodate the economic aspects of oil and gas projects. Furthermore, he addressed the global shift towards sustainable energy sources, underscoring the necessity for the oil and gas industry to adapt to these emerging trends. This adaptation is crucial for Indonesia to meet its Net Zero Emission goals through viable energy solutions such as natural gas. Emphasising Clean Energy Through CCS/CCUS Initiatives In line with global clean energy trends, the Indonesian government has launched initiatives to implement Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilisation (CCS/CCUS) technologies. These projects, currently numbering 15, are exploring the potential to store up to 500 gigatons of CO2. This initiative reflects a significant step towards reducing carbon footprints and enhancing environmental sustainability. Transition to Sustainable Practices: Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia With the same commitment to fostering a sustainable future, Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia is poised to guide businesses through the complexities of achieving sustainability certifications. Specialising in the preparation of comprehensive documentation, audit accompaniment, and detailed consultancy services, we ensure businesses comply with stringent sustainability standards. Our expertise extends to managing certifications like the ISO 14001 for environmental management systems, which is crucial for sustainable oil and gas operations. For more information on how we can support your business in this transition, please email us at marketing-indonesia@onepeterson.com or visit our website and click here for contacting us.

Introduction to Rainforest Alliance Certification When perusing your favourite products, you may have noticed a little green frog emblem. This is not merely a decorative feature; it signifies that the item is Rainforest Alliance Certified. This certification represents a commitment to fostering a world where human activities and nature exist in harmonious balance. Overview of the Certification Program The symbol of the green frog is at the heart of the Rainforest Alliance Certification Program, which champions sustainability not just environmentally but also socially and economically. This holistic approach ensures that the products bearing this seal contribute positively to both the planet and its people. Key Areas of Impact 1. Forest Conservation: Forests play a vital role in sustaining life on our planet. The certification program mandates stringent practices to protect these vital ecosystems, combat deforestation, and encourage afforestation on certified farms. 2. Climate Action: Recognising forests as crucial carbon sinks, the program promotes sustainable land management practices that help mitigate climate change by conserving and increasing tree cover. 3. Human Rights: Rainforest Alliance Certification supports the welfare of farmworkers and their communities by providing mechanisms to combat exploitation, enforce fair labour practices, and uphold the rights of indigenous populations. 4. Enhancing Livelihoods: The program also focuses on improving the economic opportunities for smallholder farmers and forest communities, which is essential for poverty alleviation and environmental conservation. Certification Requirements To bear the Rainforest Alliance Certified seal, companies must integrate sustainability into their supply chains, beginning with the farms they source from. These stringent requirements ensure that business practices not only foster stronger supply chains but also enhance consumer trust and achieve broader sustainability objectives. RA Commitments and Your Role Every product adorned with the green frog supports a broader mission to build a better world. This is reinforced by a rigorous verification system, which includes independent audits to ensure compliance with RA demanding standards. As consumers, your choices have the power to drive significant positive changes, making you a crucial player in this global movement for sustainable development. Peterson as Your Partner in Achieving Certification At Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia, we specialise in helping organisations navigate the complexities of achieving sustainability certifications, such as the Rainforest Alliance Certification. We are proud to have assisted Fuji Global Chocolate (M) SDN BHD in achieving their certification. All their suppliers are subjected to internal audits and rigorous quality controls to align with FGC’s stringent standards. If you are interested in following FGC's footprint in achieving Rainforest Alliance Certification, please contact us at marketing-indonesia@onepeterson.com or visit our website and Contact Us here to learn how we can assist you in your journey towards certification.

Indonesia, as the world's largest palm oil producer, boasting an annual production exceeding 56 million tonnes and exports reaching 26.33 million tonnes, continues to reinforce its strategic position in the global agricultural landscape. In 2023 alone, palm oil and its derivatives contributed a staggering USD 28.45 billion, accounting for 11.6% of the country's total non-oil exports, while providing employment to approximately 16.2 million individuals, including numerous smallholders. The Indonesian government has made considerable efforts to enhance the value chain of this critical industry, not merely focusing on raw materials but also on finished goods, thereby strengthening the country's economic base. Airlangga Hartarto, the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, elaborated on the government's initiatives during the National Coordination Meeting on the National Action Plan for Sustainable Palm Oil Plantations, held on 28 March 2024. He highlighted the significant strides in the biodiesel mandate, with the current implementation at B35 and trials for B40 underway. The domestic biodiesel uptake in 2023 was an impressive 12.2 million kilolitres, significantly boosting the internal use of Crude Palm Oil (CPO). The roadmap outlined in Presidential Instruction No. 6 of 2019 (Inpres) encompasses a comprehensive plan to overhaul the governance of sustainable palm oil cultivation across the nation, spanning from data enhancement to dispute resolution. It mandates 14 ministries/agencies, 26 provincial governments, and 217 district governments in palm oil-producing regions to participate in implementing the five-component strategy, comprising 28 programmes and 92 activities leading to 118 outputs. Noteworthy is the cumulative achievement in ISPO certification following the Inpres, with 883 companies and 52 cooperatives/groups of farmers certified, significantly promoting market access for sustainable palm oil products. In addition to ISPO certification, the National Government has accelerated the Palm Oil Rejuvenation Programme (PSR), simplifying application processes and thereby boosting annual rejuvenation rates. By 2024, the programme had disbursed IDR 9.25 trillion, rejuvenating 331,007 hectares. Furthermore, regional governments have been integral in advancing sustainable initiatives, with nine provinces already implementing their Sustainable Palm Oil Regional Action Plans. The meeting also addressed various strategic decisions to facilitate smallholder involvement in sustainable practices, including revising financial allocations and reducing application requirements for the PSR programme. In closing, Minister Hartarto stressed the government's commitment to resolving palm oil cultivation issues in forest areas, prepared with various scenarios backed by the Job Creation Law. The event saw participation from high-level representatives from several governmental bodies, emphasizing a unified approach to enhancing the sustainability of Indonesia's palm oil industry. At Peterson Projects and Solutions Indonesia, we are dedicated to helping your business excel in sustainability certifications. Our services include comprehensive assistance in preparing necessary documentation, thorough guidance through the certification process, and steadfast support during audits. We ensure that you meet and exceed the standards required by certifications such as RSPO, ISPO, MSPO, ISCC, GGL, and many others. Ready to elevate your sustainability practices? Email us at marketing-indonesia@onepeterson.com or visit our website and click here to contact us. Let us help you navigate the complexities of certification and achieve your sustainability goals with ease. Published by: Ministry of Economic Coordination, Republic of Indonesia Press Release HM.4.6/101/SET.M.EKON.3/03/2024