The initiative follows the groups announcement in June that it was working with WWF Indonesia on drafting a memorandum of understanding for a number of initiatives (PrintWeek, 26 June).

Under the agreement, APP and SMG will put together a multi-year action plan on the sustainability of its resources, the conservation of high-value forests, its wood supply and dealing with land conflicts with local communities.

The agreement will also lead to the establishment of a series of land protection arrangements, which will create a contiguous conservation area of more than 165,000 hectares.

APP deputy chief executive for Indonesia, Michael Black, said the company was committed to working with a wide range of stakeholders. We recognise that todays progressive pulp and paper companies work in a way that benefits society and the environment, he said.

The initiative is the second time APP and WWF have worked together. They previously collaborated to block access roads to illegal loggers in Tesso Nilo.

WWF Indonesias executive director, Mubariq Ahmad, said: This is an important step in APP and SMGs continuing efforts in environmental sustainability and social responsibility.

APP and SMG will also develop a chain of custody system for the wood supply into APPs Indonesian pulp mills.

Story by Andy Scott