Apical Buzz December 2023 Part 1
Sustainable Aviation Fuel Offers Hope for a Cleaner Aviation Future, But Decarbonizing Air Travel ‘Requires Everyone On-board’
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) is gaining traction as a key factor in reducing carbon emissions, with its market value predicted to reach $131 billion by 2033, up from $1.29 billion in 2023, according to BIS Research. Amidst prevailing challenges, Aika underscored SAF’s potential to reduce CO2 emissions of the aviation industry by up to 90%, instilling optimism for a cleaner aviation sector. Southeast Asia, in particular, holds a pivotal role as the industry ramps up SAF production on a global scale. To drive SAF adoption, Aika emphasized the need for policy interventions, sustainable financing, and stronger demand signals. Governments globally are expected to mandate SAF usage and establish incentive schemes aligned with international standards. Apical, a major vegetable oil processor, aims to become a leading second-generation biofuel feedstock provider through partnerships, such as the one with Cepsa. Their collaboration, set to complete in 2026, will result in Southern Europe’s largest second-generation biofuel plant with a production capacity of 500,000 tonnes per annum. Carlos Barrasa of Cepsa echoed the importance of SAF, emphasizing its financial and technical advantages. He stressed the need for consistent regulations, subsidies, and support to unlock SAF’s full potential in decarbonizing the aviation industry.
Apical Honored with SAWIT INDONESIA Award 2023 for Empowering MSMEs in through Educational Initiatives
Apical has been named as the most reputable palm oil company for its efforts to educate Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia by Majalah SAWIT INDONESIA. The SAWIT INDONESIA Award 2023 acknowledges Apical’s contribution to the palm oil industry. Apical’s educational programs for over 600 small businesses across Indonesia have empowered entrepreneurs with the skills needed for growth, complemented by sustainably produced products. George Tjiptamustika, Market Development Manager, emphasized, “Education is the foundation of sustainable progress.” The award ceremony at Borobudur Hotel in Central Jakarta on December 20, 2023, marking a significant milestone toward a more sustainable and prosperous future for all.
Apical Group Marunda Named Top Investor in East Jakarta’s Kawasan Berikat
On November 13, 2023, Apical Group Marunda received the Best Investor in Kawasan Berikat award from the Kawasan Berikat Marunda of East Jakarta Authorities for 2022. This recognition highlights Apical’s unwavering commitment to excellence in the downstream palm oil processing industry, setting new standards and making a positive impact on the environment, community, and economy. The company’s achievements showcase resilience and innovation, sending a powerful message to the industry about thriving while upholding ethical and environmental standards. As a downstream oil processor, Apical is rewriting the narrative, demonstrating that it is possible to succeed while contributing to a sustainable future and empowering smallholders while protecting the planet.
Apical Soars with Subroto Award, Fueling Innovation in Energy
Apical, a leading energy player, took center stage recently in Bali, receiving the prestigious Subroto Award 2023 in New Energy, Renewables, and Energy Conservation. This recognition from Indonesia’s Ministry of Energy and Minerals Resources validates Apical’s relentless pursuit of excellence, innovation, and sustainability throughout the year. It is the country’s highest award in the energy and mineral resources sector and is given to recognize those who have made significant contributions to the sector in the past year. The Subroto Award is testament to Apical’s impact to the energy sector, in alignment with its Apical2030 commitment.
Third Cooperative Receives RSPO Certification under SMILE Programme
In a significant milestone at the 2023 RSPO RT Meeting in Jakarta, the Smallholder Inclusion for Better Livelihood & Empowerment (SMILE) initiative proudly announces the RSPO certification of its third cooperative. Launched in 2020 by collaborative efforts from Asian Agri, Apical, and Kao, the SMILE programme has effectively increased farmers’ enthusiasm and promoted sustainable practices in the Indonesian palm oil industry. This latest certification achievement, involving 628 independent oil palm smallholders within the third cooperative, underscores SMILE’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainable growth. Since 2020, the Smallholder Inclusion for Better Livelihood & Empowerment (SMILE) program has championed sustainable palm oil practices, securing its third cooperative RSPO Certification at the 2023 RSPO meeting in Jakarta. The program, a collaboration between Apical, Asian Agri, and Kao, focuses on inclusivity, with a total of 628 certified independent smallholders (ISHs) under SMILE. Recognizing the challenges faced by smallholders in meeting strict sustainability criteria while increasing production, SMILE contributes to Asian Agri and Apical’s 2030 sustainability commitments. The program emphasizes inclusivity, providing guidance and support to smallholders like Sutoyo, president of the Asosiasi Petani Sawit Swadaya Anugrah in Riau. Overcoming obstacles, Sutoyo’s cooperative, with 238 members cultivating 571 hectares, achieved RSPO Certification through SMILE’s mentorship. SMILE prioritizes inclusivity and essential training to empower smallholders, ensuring industry sustainability standards are elevated.” Entering its third phase, SMILE remains committed to empowering smallholders and promoting sustainable practices through mentorship, training, and collaboration. The program aims to uplift more cooperatives, enabling them to achieve RSPO Certification and contribute to a resilient and sustainable palm oil sector.
Apical Named Second Most Transparent Palm Oil Company in World
Palm oil leader Apical advanced to second place in the 2023 SPOTT ranking, a 4% jump to 95.3%. This achievement reflects Apical’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and inclusivity across its operations and supply chain. The SPOTT assessment, by the Zoological Society of London, evaluates palm oil players on 186 indicators. Apical excels across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects, surpassing the industry average by over 100%. They achieved perfect scores in crucial areas like deforestation, community engagement, and labor rights. Bremen Yong, Apical’s Sustainability Director, credits their success to shared responsibility throughout the supply chain. Their Apical2030 initiative outlines ambitious targets for partnerships, climate action, innovation, and inclusive progress. Apical’s consistent top-three ranking in SPOTT showcases their dedication to continuous improvement. By prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and robust ESG practices, Apical sets a strong example for a more sustainable palm oil industry.
RSPO Annual Roundtable Conference 2023: Embracing Sustainability and Smallholder Inclusion
Palm oil leader Apical advanced to second place in the 2023 SPOTT ranking, a 4% jump to 95.3%. This achievement reflects Apical’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, ethical practices, and inclusivity across its operations and supply chain. The SPOTT assessment, by the Zoological Society of London, evaluates palm oil players on 186 indicators. Apical excels across environmental, social, and governance (ESG) aspects, surpassing the industry average by over 100%. They achieved perfect scores in crucial areas like deforestation, community engagement, and labor rights. Bremen Yong, Apical’s Sustainability Director, credits their success to shared responsibility throughout the supply chain. Their Apical2030 initiative outlines ambitious targets for partnerships, climate action, innovation, and inclusive progress. Apical’s consistent top-three ranking in SPOTT showcases their dedication to continuous improvement. By prioritizing inclusivity, transparency, and robust ESG practices, Apical sets a strong example for a more sustainable palm oil industry.
Apical Receives Recognition for Outstanding Public Relations and Media Engagement
Apical has clinched the Best Public Relations and Media Engagement Programs award from SAWIT Indonesia magazine on Thursday, December 21, 2023, at Borobudur Hotel, recognizing several companies for their contributions to the palm oil industry. The recognition underscores Apical’s commitment to champion the cuase of sustainability and collaborative efforts within the palm oil sector. Apical’s win in the Public Relations and Media Engagement category reflects the company’s dedication to building strong partnerships and advocating for sustainability practices. The recognition not only acknowledges Apical’s achievements but also honors the collective efforts of a passionate team committed to making a positive impact.
🌿✈️ "The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it." - Robert Swan. Kudos to Apical for leading by example with sustainable aviation fuel and supporting small businesses! Can't wait to read more in the latest edition of Apical Buzz. 📖💼 #SustainabilityLeaders #Innovation #ApicalBuzz