Givaudan to carry out patchouli sustainability project in Indonesia

A NEW initiative will help Givaudan boost its sustainable patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) oil sourcing and improve the living standards of smallholder producers in its collection network in Sulawesi, Indonesia. The multi-year project is funded by the Givaudan Foundation and will conducted in cooperation with the international non-governmental organisation Swisscontact.

Givaudan’s collection network in Indonesia comprises hundreds of smallholder farmers and distillers of patchouli oil in Sulawesi since 2013, securing 100% of the supply of the essential ingredient.

The company said, over 1,000 patchouli producers and their families will be given training on agricultural and distillation practices, improved management of household income as well as education on nutrition.  The project also calls for renovating smallholder patchouli distillation units to improve energy efficiency and reduce firewood consumption, and to plant trees as part of the climate-smart cultivation approach.

Willem Mutsaerts, Head of Global Procurement and Sustainability (Photo: Givaudan)

“We are strengthening our commitment to sustainable patchouli production in Indonesia as part of our approach to sourcing for shared value,” said Willem Mutsaerts, Head of Global Procurement and Sustainability. “For Givaudan this means being present at source and supporting patchouli producers in the development of their smallholder businesses in a way that is respectful of the environment.”

Apart from strengthening the supply chain, the project aims to promote best practies, upgrade the living standards of the community, and manage the natural resources on the island.

“We are pleased to be working with Givaudan on this project which represents a first for sustainable Indonesian patchouli production in terms of scope. In partnership with the producers, their families and local government actors, we aim to help increase smallholder production yields, promote the protection of natural resources and create local ownership in the project,” said Peter Bissegger, Director Market Development, Swisscontact. Patchouli oil is prized by perfumers for its powerful, earthy and long-lasting character. The essential oil is distilled from the dried leaves of the patchouli plant and used to inspire perfumers’ palettes for everything from fine fragrances to fabric care products, while also providing a source of inspiration to craft exclusive new fragrance signatures such as Akigalawood produced through biotechnology.