PALMOILMAGAZINE, KUALA LUMPUR – Ruth Silva, Director of Assurance at RSPO and the HCV Network, shared her insights on the importance of revising standards, challenges involved in the process, and her aspirations for creating positive outcomes for farmers while protecting high conservation value (HCV) and high carbon stock (HCS) forests.
Since joining the HCV Network in 2014, RSPO has reinforced its commitment to protecting HCV areas through credible identification processes. “We recognize that long-term protection is challenging without accurate identification,” Ruth explained, as quoted by Palmoilmagazine.com from RSPO’s website on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. To enhance the credibility of this effort, RSPO developed the Assessor Licensing Scheme (ALS).
Ruth also highlighted challenges posed by the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). “The EU’s definition of forests under EUDR differs from the methodology used in the High Carbon Stock Approach. A gap analysis is essential to ensure HCV-HCSA assessments meet the protection expectations,” she noted.
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Despite EUDR’s focus on due diligence, RSPO members are seen as better prepared. With years of documented compliance, they are a step ahead of other operators. “RSPO has consistently documented evidence of adherence to sustainability principles, including a strong focus on eliminating deforestation,” Ruth added.
An essential component of the standard revision process is greater emphasis on farmers. Ruth explained that indicators for HCV management and protection are being clarified to make implementation and verification easier for farmers and auditors.
“Technical discussions with auditors provide valuable insights into what works in the field, offering better guidance to farmers in meeting requirements,” she said.
Ruth also emphasized shifting focus from identification to the impact of protection. “We need to demonstrate that forests remain intact, local communities benefit, and their rights are safeguarded. Markets demand tangible outcomes, not just plans,” she stressed.
She hopes the new standards will document the challenges faced by farmers and provide solutions to streamline processes. “We must learn from farmers about the obstacles they encounter in protecting HCV areas and collaborate to address them,” she concluded.
The revised RSPO standards aim to deliver significant positive impacts for both the environment and local communities by prioritizing sustainability and the protection of high conservation value areas. (P2)