UNDP and Stora Enso - developing local communities to reduce poverty
The plantation ESIA was the first of its kind in China. UNDP hopes that it will serve as a model for similar projects in the future.
Stora Enso and UNDP’s Nordic Office have been co-operating since 2002 to identify areas where partnerships could be beneficial.
The UNDP helps Stora Enso to build up essential dialogues with stakeholders, and improve transparency and accountability as part of corporate responsibility.
For UNDP, such partnerships contribute towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), by bringing together different social actors to fight poverty and reduce socio-economic and environmental inequalities.
Close partnership in Guangxi, China
In 2005, UNDP China carried out an environmental and social impact assessment (ESIA) of Stora Enso’s plantations in Guangxi Province. According to the results, there are no major environmental or social issues that could jeopardize Stora Enso’s plantation operations in Guangxi. Possible environmental impacts can be dealt with through good plantation management practices, in which Stora Enso has a good track record.
The major challenges for Stora Enso will be in the social dimension, particularly concerning engagement with landholders and local communities. During 2006-2010, Stora Enso and UNDP China will co-operate in social development of the local communities.
