Protecting nature and empowering communities in Indonesia and Philippines

The L’OCCITANE Group believes that environmental stewardship and community well-being go hand in hand. The Group’s commitment to sustainability is brought to life through an impactful conservation project   in Indonesia, helping protect biodiversity, combat deforestation and support local communities.

Safeguarding forests and wildlife

The L’OCCITANE Group is committed to supporting field projects in conservation, restoring biodiversity and regenerative agriculture. The Pematang Village Community Forest Protection project, under the aegis of the Livelihoods Fund for Family Farming (L3F), works with local communities to conserve across an area covering more than 4,000 hectares in northern Sumatra. The area is closely linked to the sourcing of palm derivatives, and the forest is home to numerous endangered and protected species. The L’OCCITANE Group has been involved in the initiative since 2022. The project, which also includes the People Resources and Conservation Foundation (PRCF), tackles deforestation and safeguards biodiversity while maintaining a firm focus on human rights.

In 2024, the Group expanded the initiative by launching the conservation of another 4,000 hectares of forest in the neighbouring village of Gorahut, fully financed by the L’OCCITANE Fund that supports PCRF directly on the ground on this project. Together, these efforts protect 8,000 hectares of irreplaceable forest, ensuring it continues to support life for generations to come.

Regeneration beyond direct sourcing: coconut in the Philippines 

Although the company does not purchase coconut oil directly, it has estimated that its coconut oil sourcing through intermediaries is associated with a land footprint of approximately 750 hectares in the Philippines. Traceability and accountability are key issues to address the associated risks. 

L’OCCITANE Group has joined forces with local partners to co-invest in a program that supports 2000 smallholder coconut farmers. Based in the Philippines, this five-year project (currently until 2029) aims to improve the socio-economic sustainability of coconut oil-producing family farming by empowering small producers in the value chain and promoting agroecological practices.

Using science to guide strategy

Sound data is key for informed strategic decision-making. In 2024, the L’OCCITANE Group updated its Biodiversity Strategy, drawing on tools such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List to better understand species at risk and refine its conservation priorities. This data-driven approach ensures the Group’s efforts are focused where they matter most. The Group also began piloting the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) methodology to assess its impact on nature and set measurable targets for land and water stewardship.

A shared vision for a sustainable future

Through the expertise of its Biodiversity and Sustainable Sourcing Department – established in 2008 – the L’OCCITANE Group continues to advance systemic change in its supply chains. Its work in Indonesia and Philippines demonstrates the power of partnership and the potential for business to be a force for good. Together with its partners and local communities, the company is building a future in which people and nature thrive side by side.

By supporting the invaluable work of the IUCN Red List, we can all be part of the movement to protect endangered species worldwide.