RISS execution by an independent smallholder association

Abstract

The Center for Sustainable Small-owners (CSS) was established to improve the livelihoods of Independent Smallholders (ISH) of oil palm ensuring ethical and responsible production of oil palm with commitments to no deforestation, no new plantation on peatlands, and no exploitation (NDPE) in the supply chain. The CSS has a two-pronged approach i.e., improving livelihoods through yield intensification while sourcing responsibly ensuring ethical and sustainable oil palm production and ensuring sustainability through certification and compliance while empowering communities through farmer associations to safeguard their interests. The RSPO independent Smallholder Standard (RISS) was adopted by RSPO members on 6 November 2019. As part of its strategy, CSS helped facilitate RISS certification for the very first batch of Independent Smallholders through an ISH association, PERTANIAGA, in August 2021 who received full premium as of September 2022. Today, with 306 ISHs certified, this paper outlines the certification journey of these ISH. CSS aims to have 640 ISH certified through 2023 while diffusing its impact on a larger community through sustainable and good agricultural practices (GAP).