Local Perception Of The Carbon Emission Reduction Program In Oil Palm Plantations

Abstract

A case of the carbon emission reduction program on oil palm plantations is pursued here with the aim of filling existing gaps in knowledge regarding community involvement and perceived benefits. Quantitative interviews were carried out with selected local stakeholders to get their level of awareness, knowledge and attitude towards the program. The results ranged from informed to ignorant attitudes, some of the participants, grasping what main aim of the program is environmental, others being puzzled or even doubtful. Also, the perceived benefits were mostly expressed in a business economic basis and while responding to the questions and concerns, numerous participants focused on the commercial payoff within the short run rather than the wellbeing of the environment. There were also concerns on the questions of an equity kind where some of the community members felt that they are left out every time the decisions are being made. Including the community members in communication practices, honesty and openness are important factors in determining the effectiveness of the carbon reduction program. Indeed, by centreing its analysis at the community level, the study applies a more local perspective to understanding of how these programs are perceived by the target populations and provides guidance to enhance community participation in these initiatives. The study calls for the improvement of environmental governance mechanisms that respond to socio-economic objectives as well as enhance ecological performance.