International

RSPO certification - sustainability for whom?

Down to Earth No.80-81, June 2009

The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has started awarding certificates to palm oil producers, even though some of those companies are involved in unresolved conflicts with local communities.

The pressure for REDD

Down to Earth No.79, November 2008

International pressure to get pilot schemes for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries (REDD) up and running between now and the Copenhagen climate summit in 2009 could mean that crucial issues - including land and resource rights in forests - are sidestepped.

Why the pressure for REDD? Land use change and forestry are estimated to account for around 20% of annual carbon emissions, second only to the energy sector.

Merauke mega-project raises food fears

Down to Earth No.78, August 2008

A food mega-project planned for a vast area in the Papuan district of Merauke is causing concern that indigenous people's land will be taken and their livelihoods destroyed. As global food prices soar, there is also concern that food exports could be prioritised over domestic needs.

Bali and beyond - struggles for climate justice

Down to Earth No.76-77, May 2008

Debates around REDD, indigenous rights and control over funding

Down to Earth No.76-77, May 2008

There are many strands to the ongoing international climate change debate.

Communities force Wilmar to address bad practices

Down to Earth No.76-77 May 2008

Communities in West Kalimantan, supported by national and international NGOs, have taken the unprecedented step of challenging the environmentally and socially damaging impacts of the world's largest palm oil company, using the World Bank Group's official complaints procedure.

Peatlands and climate change

Down to Earth No.75, November 2007

Indonesia's peatlands have been in the international spotlight in the run-up to the Bali climate change summit.

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