Using tree cover and fire occurrence data from noncertified and certified oil palm plantations in Indonesia to study the effect of sustainability certification on deforestation from 2001-2015, researchers found that certification was associated with significantly reduced deforestation; however, certification was biased toward plantations with little remaining forest and had no effect on peatland forest loss or fire activity, findings with potential implications for the sustainable management of oil palm plantations.
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Article #17-04728: "Effect of oil palm sustainability certification on deforestation and fire in Indonesia," by Kimberly M. Carlson et al.
MEDIA CONTACT: Kimberly M. Carlson, University of Hawaii, Honolulu, HI; tel: 650-380-3216; e-mail: < kimcarlson@gmail.com >
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences