High Conservation Value models discussed on a cross-commodity basis for the first time
To respond to these requests, SHARP initiated some high level discussions on how to implement High Conservation Value models (HCV) at the national level in Brazil. The key issue raised was the need to look into a National Interpretation of HCV in Brazil. Subsequently, SHARP and the HCV Resource Network organised an HCV workshop where for the first time the issue of HCV was discussed on a cross-commodity basis. Representatives of all the main certification schemes participated, including Roundtable responsible soy (RTRS), Forest stewardship council (FSC), Roundtable on sustainable biomaterials (RSB) as well as companies interested in certification. The workshop kick-started the set-up of a national HCV working group in Brazil, that will also look into national interpretation of HCV and an approach for smallholders. The cross-commodity approach on HCV in this workshop is unique. The work is particularly exciting because it has already achieved cross-sectoral engagement with oil palm, soy, sugar, forestry and biofuels interests all involved.
This case study indicates how SHARP activities can catalyse far-reaching effects whilst at the same time also delivering on the project outcomes.