Earthqualizer Foundation participated in the Suppliers Workshop held by Unilever titled "Unilever Sustainable Partnership Program for Suppliers" on May 7, 2024, at Santika Premiere Dyandra Hotel, Medan. During this event, Earthqualizer Foundation explained the contribution and collaboration between Earthqualizer Foundation and Unilever in supporting Unilever's supply chain sustainability practices, which align with and strengthen Unilever's NDPE commitments. Unilever invited implementing partners and mills in their palm oil industry to participate and share insights on how to implement an integrated program for their supply chain.

Swisto Uwin, Smallholders Programme Manager, who represented Earthqualizer Foundation at this event, explained the process of managing Traceability to Plantations (TTP) data. Earthqualizer is Unilever's partner in ensuring traceability of palm oil supply from mills, estates, agents/FFB dealers, and smallholders supplying Unilever. TTP data collection is carried out from public information and field surveys. Data obtained from both methods are then integrated and analyzed to produce credible and accurate data. Earthqualizer also continues to provide training related to traceability at the mill level to create an understanding among mill workers of the importance of traceability, especially in relation to compliance with both national and international regulations.

In addition to the presentation on supply chain traceability, a spatial analysis of the risk of non-compliance with the NDPE Policy by Unilever's existing and potential suppliers was presented. The analysis was used to determine mitigation measures or corrective actions in making decisions to transform the supply chain. Swisto Uwin also presented the results of Unilever's supplier monitoring for NDPE policy compliance. Monitoring conducted by Earthqualizer is based on verification of satellite imagery, deforestation alerts, and field surveys to minimize errors in deforestation detection from automated alerts. Monitoring is also tailored to landbank, ownership, and traceability data, resulting in detailed and comprehensive information.

Since the partnership with Unilever began in 2018, Earthqualizer Foundation has provided support in data provision, spatial analysis, supply chain traceability data assessment, and monitoring of Unilever suppliers. All this support is provided to help Unilever achieve and continue to uphold its commitment to implementing a clean and sustainable palm oil industry. At the site level, Earthqualizer Foundation also assists Unilever in supporting smallholder legalization and restoration programs. These programs are Unilever's concrete efforts to implement its NDPE Policy commitments for the community and the environment.

Earthqualizer Foundation greatly appreciates the steps and commitment that Unilever continues to take in implementing a sustainable palm oil industry. We hope that Unilever and Earthqualizer Foundation can continue to collaborate in strengthening the commitment to achieve sustainable supply chain traceability, ensure regulatory compliance, and maintain adherence to the NDPE Policy.