The Synergy between SDGs and Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil in Realising Sustainable Oil Palm Development in South Halmahera, Indonesia

Abstract

This study attempted to explore the potential of sustainable oil palm development in South Halmahera in line with the government policies reflected in the certification scheme including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO). This study used structural equation modelling (SEM) with partial least squares (PLS). Government, academia, a village headman, a non-government organisation and a company officer were involved in data collection. The study was carried out in 2021–2022. The results showed that the stakeholder and the company had similar social, economic, environmental and legal development priorities. Both focused on health, food security, poverty alleviation, education, gender, income, economic impact, and infrastructure. Also, both prioritised efficient natural resource use and eco-friendly technology. The stakeholders emphasised the significance of environmental conservation in achieving sustainability. On the other hand, the company prioritised addressing climate change. The findings also offered two paths to achieve sustainability based on the perspectives of the stakeholder and the company. Surprisingly, both agreed that the environment development pillar of the SDGs plays a pivotal role in attaining ISPO.