Contrary to reports that over 1000 ha of HCS forests were cleared, a detailed ground assessment found the actual number to be 165 ha in the area of interest. GVL would like to point out that the HCSA report itself qualified its initial findings and recommended that ground assessments be performed to verify the actual clearance. GVL will incorporate the remaining ones into a revised plan which has been submitted to the HCSA for review. Meanwhile, GVL will has decided to suspend further land development in compliance with the HCSA decision until the matter is resolved according to HCSA guidelines. GVL remains committed to be fully compliant with the responsible palm oil commitments according to RSPO Principles and Criteria and the GAR Social and Environmental Policy (GSEP).

Source: Front Page Africa March 22, 2021 19:41 UTC