PT Astra Agro Lestari Tbk (Astra Agro) remains firmly committed to implementing sustainability principles, particularly in protecting conservation areas, through a science-based approach utilizing High Conservation Value (HCV) assessment criteria. In operationalizing this commitment, Astra Agro consistently adopts internationally recognized best practices for identifying, protecting, and managing HCV areas, strictly adhering to the Indonesian toolkit and the guidelines established by the High Conservation Value Network (HCVN). These comprehensive HCV studies form an integral part of our efforts to achieve sustainable oil palm plantation governance while maintaining biodiversity conservation and preserving ecological functions.

Our commitment is explicitly articulated in the Astra Agro’s Sustainability Policy and operationalized through a detailed five-year action plan. All HCV studies are conducted by credible professional consultants with the involvement of qualified experts meeting established competency standards.

Since 2021, AAL has collaborated with reputable independent institutions including Daemeter Consulting, PILI Green Network, and Eco Nusantara to conduct these HCV assessments. By the end of 2024, we successfully completed HCV assessments for 20 of our 43 targeted subsidiaries (PTs). As of Q1 2025, our progress shows one subsidiary in the public consultation stage, four subsidiaries are undergoing Full Assessment, seven subsidiaries are in the Scoping Study phase, and 11 subsidiaries are in the Pre-Assessment process. For a detailed breakdown of our 2025 HCV assessment progress, refer to the following table.

The HCV assessment implementation begins with the Free Prior Informed Consent (FPIC) process, a crucial step designed to ensure active community participation in assessment activities. This process grants affected communities the right to comprehensive engagement through multiple channels, including thorough information disclosure (utilizing various communication methods), participatory mapping exercises, and final consultation sessions. The FPIC serves as both a demonstration of respect for local communities and a formal mechanism for presenting study plans and obtaining community approval. Following successful FPIC completion and community consent is obtained, subsequent study phases – including the Scoping Study, Full Assessment, and Public Consultation – may proceed. To ensure integrity, independent consultants verify the FPIC process status through rigorous triangulation with involved community members.

Throughout the 2024 HCV assessment activities, a key challenge was the limited understanding among local communities about the concept and importance of HCV assessments. To address this, we implemented a thorough socialization process using the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) framework, ensuring communities were informed and engaged. Field officers often had to provide repeated explanations to ensure clarity and build trust. Despite initial hurdles, the community responded positively, particularly regarding program implementation, activity schedules, and the company’s social and environmental commitments. As communities understood the benefits—such as ecosystem protection and sustainable land use—their support grew. This support is crucial for the long-term success of identifying and managing High Conservation Value areas, fostering community ownership and ensuring effective conservation outcomes.