Sepik Wetlands and Peatlands Limited proudly recognizes the invaluable role of local landowners in the sustainable management and conservation of Papua New Guinea’s wetlands and peatlands. As an umbrella company overseeing carbon credit projects across 2.8 million hectares of land, we are deeply committed to fostering partnerships with indigenous communities, empowering them to actively participate in environmental conservation and sustainable development initiatives.
Our Approach to Community Engagement
At Sepik Wetlands and Peatlands Limited, we believe in the principles of inclusivity, transparency, and mutual respect when engaging with local landowners. Our approach to community engagement is centered around meaningful consultation, collaboration, and co management, ensuring that the voices and priorities of indigenous communities are heard and respected throughout the project lifecycle.
Empowering Indigenous Communities
Capacity Building: We invest in capacity-building programs aimed at enhancing the skills, knowledge, and capabilities of indigenous landowners in sustainable land management practices, carbon credit development, and entrepreneurship. Through training workshops, technical assistance, and educational initiatives, we empower communities to become active participants in environmental conservation and economic development.
Revenue Sharing: We are committed to ensuring that the benefits derived from carbon credit projects are equitably distributed among indigenous landowners. Through revenuesharing agreements, royalties, and livelihood support programs, we provide tangible economic incentives for communities to conserve forests, protect biodiversity, and promote sustainable land use practices.
Cultural Preservation: We respect and celebrate the cultural heritage and traditional knowledge of indigenous communities, recognizing their deep connection to the land and their stewardship responsibilities. We work closely with local elders, leaders, and traditional authorities to integrate traditional ecological knowledge into our project design and implementation, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among community members.
Community Development: Beyond carbon credit projects, we support community-driven development initiatives that address the socio-economic needs and aspirations of indigenous 15 communities. These initiatives may include infrastructure development, healthcare services, education programs, and small-scale enterprise development, aimed at improving the overall well-being and quality of life for community members.
Our Collaborative Partnerships
Our partnerships with indigenous landowners are built on trust, mutual respect, and shared objectives. We work closely with landowner associations, customary landowners, and community-based organizations to co-design and co-implement projects that align with their values, aspirations, and sustainable development priorities. Through collaborative decision making processes, we ensure that projects are culturally appropriate, socially inclusive, and environmentally sustainable.