Toba Pulp Lestari Addresses Environmental Concerns Following Luhut's Criticism

Commitment to Sustainable Practices

PT Toba Pulp Lestari Tbk (TPL), a major player in Indonesia's pulp industry, has directly responded to recent allegations regarding its environmental impact. The criticism came from prominent government figure Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan, Chairman of the National Economic Council (DEN), who expressed concerns about the company's operations in Tapanuli, North Sumatera. TPL's management has reaffirmed its commitment to operating within the framework of government regulations and maintaining sustainable forest management practices.

Operational Details and Environmental Measures

TPL operates within a 167,912-hectare concession area, of which only about 46,000 hectares are utilized for eucalyptus plantations. The company has allocated approximately 48,000 hectares as protected areas, with the remaining land serving various ecological and infrastructural purposes. This includes High Conservation Value (HCV) areas, High Carbon Stock (HCS) areas, and infrastructure facilities. The company's approach includes contour-following plantation patterns that integrate production areas with protection zones.

Response to Allegations

TPL's Director, Anwar Lawden, stated that the company's operations have been conducted in accordance with official permits, including environmental approvals and RKUPHHK (Business Plan for Forest Product Utilization). He emphasized that all activities are monitored by relevant authorities and adhere to strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Lawden refuted allegations of environmental destruction, citing a lack of factual evidence supporting these claims. The company has expressed willingness to cooperate with any official evaluation or clarification processes initiated by authorities.

Sustainability Focus

The company maintains that its operational practices are guided by principles of sustainable forest management, ecological caution, and documented procedures. TPL's management approach includes maintaining ecological buffers, protecting watershed areas, and preserving biodiversity habitats within their concession area. This comprehensive strategy aims to balance industrial operations with environmental stewardship.