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it remains a bottom-up approach . The unique characteristics of each farming landscape and the varying challenges small farmers face necessitate tailored solutions .
A jurisdictional approach that allows for certification on a regional level may be a viable next step , provided it involves top-down participation and adapts the certification journey accordingly . Scaling up requires a collaborative effort involving government organisations , NGOs , and industry stakeholders to ensure the widespread adoption of sustainable practices .
ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS
Government organisations , NGOs , and other stakeholders are pivotal in supporting and scaling up sustainable supply chain initiatives . Their involvement is essential in addressing small farmers ’ challenges and barriers . Some key roles they can play include :
• Providing financial support : Government organisations , corporations and NGOs can offer financial assistance to cover certification costs and promote the adoption of sustainable practices .
• Advocating for policy changes : Stakeholders can advocate for policies that incentivise sustainability and promote responsible sourcing , creating a conducive environment for small farmers to participate in sustainable supply chains .
• Promoting awareness : NGOs and government bodies can raise consumer awareness , encouraging them to support products from socially responsible supply chains .
• Facilitating collaboration : Stakeholders can act as intermediaries , fostering cooperation among small farmers , corporations , and certification bodies to streamline the certification process .
• Encouraging research and innovation : Supporting research initiatives that explore innovative solutions for sustainable supply chains can lead to more effective and efficient practices .
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ness case through sustainability .
SUCCESS STORIES AND OUTCOMES
Despite these challenges , the CSS programme has achieved notable successes . It has facilitated the certification of 407 independent smallholder farmers under RSPO ’ s latest Independent Smallholder Standard ( RISS ).
This is more significant because the groups are certified under Pertubuhan Tani Niaga Lestari Johor or PERTANIAGA , the first wholly owned Independent Smallholder Farmer Association for oil palm in Malaysia , in August 2021 .
The first batch of 107 of these farmers have already received 100 per cent of RSPO Premium for the first year of their certified produce , with the remaining joining them in 2023 and are expected to receive 100 per cent of the RSPO premium by the end of this year
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providing a clear , tangible economic benefit . There are around 500 farms owned by these farmers , all of which are registered with valid and active licenses from the Malaysian Palm Oil Board ( MPOB ).
Implementing Good Agricultural Practices ( GAP ) through the learning farms has demonstrated a 33 per cent improvement in yield over the first 18 months , improving livelihood through sustainable GAP for these independent small farmers .
These successes testify to the potential of socially responsible supply chains in improving livelihoods while promoting social and environmental sustainability .
SCALING UP SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAINS
The question of scalability is crucial when considering replicating sustainable supply chain initiatives on a larger scale . While the CSS program has made significant progress ,
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“ The journey toward socially responsible and sustainable supply chains is complex but essential . It will require commitment and , with a sense of shared responsibility across all stakeholders , a collective effort to create value for all while safeguarding the planet and its resources .” |
FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAINS
Looking ahead , the future of sustainable supply chains in the food and agricultural sector holds immense potential . Technology will continue to play a vital role in enhancing transparency and traceability within supply chains . Blockchain , data analytics , and IoT devices offer the possibility to enable realtime tracking and verification of sustainable practices .
While there are calls for boycotts or even replacement of palm oil , the alternatives do not offer a better social or environmental narrative and fail at scalability .
Eventually , a multidisciplinary approach that provides socio-technological solutions that empower the stakeholders while offering them a clear business case for sustainability will be key .
The success of these initiatives will hinge on the active involvement of all stakeholders , from farmers and corporations to government organisations and NGOs .
The journey toward socially responsible and sustainable supply chains is complex but essential . It will require commitment and , with a sense of shared responsibility across all stakeholders , a collective effort to create value for all while safeguarding the planet and its resources .
By addressing small farmers ’ challenges and promoting innovative solutions , we can pave the way for a more sustainable and responsible future in the food and agricultural sector . - @ green
Dr Asad Ata is an Associate Professor of Operations and Supply Chain Management at the Asia School of Business . His primary areas of research include sustainable sourcing and supply chain management .
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