Five groups working in Bukit Tigapuluh National Park (BTNP), including the Sumatran Tiger Conservation and Protection Foundation, and the WWF Indonesia, have claimed that APP is set to embark on a joint logging venture with Sinar Mas Group (SMG).

The WWF said the two companies have been given licence to clear a large area of natural forest, home to indigenous tribes and a designated and protected habitat for orangutans.

However, an APP spokesman refuted the claims. He said: “We wish to make it clear that APP has stated that the allegations made are false.”

In a statement, the paper manufacturer said it is fully committed to the protection of BTNP and to the responsible management of its surrounding areas.

It said: “Because of the business APP is in, and the fact that we operate in an environmentally sensitive part of the world, we understand that we may be an easy public relations target.

“Despite that, we urge stakeholders to be responsible and considered in their approach to long-term sustainable development in Indonesia.”

In June 2008, WWF reiterated its concern over APP logging activities in high-conservation-value forest in Indonesia.

In 2007, APP was kicked out of the FSC over allegations of destroying tropical forest in Indonesia.

However, APP has denied any speculation that it has been illegally logging wood in Indonesia, and in October last year, four of its Indonesian mills became PEFC certified.

Read the original article at www.printweek.com.

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