The natural heritage of rural DRC, particularly its flora and fauna, is of inestimable value not only to the country but also to the entire planet. DRC forests are considered a crucial carbon sink for the global carbon cycle and play a vital role in regulating the planet's climate. Activities promoting human development must be carried out in a way that preserves this natural heritage for future generations.
PHC is firmly committed to ensuring its activities contribute positively to all its stakeholders, the environment, and the local economy. To support the company in this commitment, the PHC Foundation works to protect endangered species and promotes actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Two projects are being implemented as part of this program.
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Protecting bonobos from wildlife crime in their habitat
Bonobos are the primates most closely related to humans. They exist only in the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the region between the Congo River and the Kasai River. This species is listed as endangered. Their existence is severely threatened by poachers who capture them for consumption or sale. This project, carried out through the Centre for Research in Forestry and Ecology (CREF), a national research institution mandated for bonobo research, will protect bonobos by reducing human pressure on them and their natural habitat, while offering development alternatives to populations living in the same environment as bonobos.
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Green Growth and Sustainable Community Development by PHC
In a short time, PHC has managed to double its palm oil production thanks to sound management and the adoption of environmentally friendly agricultural practices. This growth momentum will continue, driven by the implementation of concrete actions aimed at reducing its carbon emissions and strengthening its renewable energy production capacity. The PHC Foundation is participating in the development of this green growth strategy, making it inclusive and enabling communities to benefit from the energy transition and improved management of environmental issues. The PHC Foundation will support local communities in obtaining property rights to their forests, in accordance with DRC Decree No. 14/018 of August 2, 2014, which establishes the procedures for allocating forest concessions to local communities. It will also support them in generating and obtaining revenue from carbon credits to contribute to their sustainable social and economic development.
