Success. After eight months struggling to repair a damaged relationship between my client, a major producer of pulp and paper, and the Rainforest Alliance, I am delighted to report that todays' meeting went very well.
Rainforest Alliance, a leading international non-governmental organization, had been provided certification to prove that my client's plantation wood was sustainably produced. However, as a consequence of pressure from other environmental groups who alleged that my client is converting natural forest to make way for its plantations, Rainforest Alliance suspended the certification. Many of my client's customers, who are big consumer companies, like Procter and Gamble who are the world's largest nappy producers, insist of buying only sustainably certified pulp. So this was a big blow to my client.
My client has consistently denied any allegations of wrongdoing. I have been playing my brokering role, trying to get both parties around the table to agree a process which will support my client's claim. This is complicated work, particularly in Indonesia, where the company operates. And it is sometimes strange to be discussing the problems of the rainforests in Sumatra in the offices of Rainforest Alliance in the heart of Manhattan.
Finally, a formula has been agreed that should now lead to the reinstatement of the certification within a few months. There will be much more work to do, and many more miles to travel. But I am confident of success.
Grandpa Jonathan
New York, USA
