New evidence on the impacts of palm oil on smallholder farmers in Sumatra

Several recent studies on the impact of smallholder palm oil have highlighted both positive impacts (improved livelihoods, diversification of livelihoods and expansion of farm size) and some negative impacts, including increased inequality and increased pressure for forest conversion. In a region like Sumatra, unoccupied or underutilised land reserves may be rapidly depleted within the next 30 years. 

As Indonesia's population continues to grow, so will the pressure on land to provide more viable livelihood opportunities, which could point the way towards different and more intensive land-use options.  

Read the full story on the SHARP website.