Sustainable Produce
Many economies, especially those of developing countries, agriculture can be an engine of economic growth. Approximately two-thirds of the world’s agricultural value added is generated in developing countries, and in many of them, the agricultural sector contributes as much as 30 percent to the Gross Domestic Product. Sustainable agriculture is one that depletes neither people nor the land. Agricultural land depletion is a rapidly increasing around the world, with rampant wastage of natural resources through poor development and irresponsible use of pesticides among the critical reasons for this decline. Sustainable agricultural production practices are critical, both for our present as well as our future. All of Plantations Partners’ plantations are specifically created within sustainability in mind.
Soil Enrichment Practices
Rich and fertile soils are integral to growing healthy crops and for increasing crop yields. The traditional techniques of farming often reduce the fertility of the soil by the overuse of pesticides. Sustainable farming practices like leaving crop residue in the field post-harvest, using plant and animal compost like manure, are all critical and natural means to soil enrichment.
Natural Ecosystems
Many birds and animals are natural predators of pests that plague and destroy crops. Sustainable farming ensures the habitation of these birds and animals on land, thereby keeping the number of pests in check. As a result, it improves the production and quality of crops grown and helps in bringing down the need for insecticides.
Water Systems
Agriculture consumes about 70% of the current world water supply, whereas domestic and industrial use is about 8% and 22% respectively. Sustainable water supply means to find reliable and resilient approaches for water for that neither exhaust water sources, the local economy, and has no long term negative impact on the environment. Plantations Partners makes sure each site has adequate and environmentally sound water sources in close proximity. Many of our sites are near naturally occurring water sources thereby limiting any man-made and potentially environmentally damaging water sources.
Transportation
Trucks, trains, and boats, all of which consume fossil fuels, are the primary methods for transporting large quantities of food around the world. The environmental impact of transport is significant because it creates air pollution, including nitrous oxides and particulates, and is a significant contributor to global warming through the emission of carbon dioxide. As consumers become more familiar with the concept of food to plate or farm to table, they are being more demanding on businesses.
Plantations Partners implements sustainable practices throughout all its operations but special attention is placed on its transportation routes as many companies fail to take this into account on their environmental footprint. For example, our Durian plantations have been specifically located in Johor for efficient access to the key Singapore market. Although this has increased our business costs, it helps us reduce our environmental footprint which is something we pride ourselves in.