Sinoe County – Golden Veroleum Liberia (GVL) has hired two sustainability experts to strengthen the company’s sustainability approach and improve relations with local communities, NGOs and stakeholders, as part of the new sustainability action plan announced in July.

The new sustainability General Manager, Dr. Michael Abedi-Lartey, a Ghanian national with more than 24 years experience in natural resources planning and management centered on Ghana and Liberia, as well as experience in Togo, Burkina Faso, Sirrea Leone, Guinea, and Cote d’Ivoire, will lead the implementation of the new sustainability action plan.

Donald Persadaan Ginting, a versatile agriculturist with extensive experience in sustainable palm oil production in Indonesia and Singapore, will work closely with Michael to help the company achieve compliance with international sustainability standards. He brings to GVL extensive experience in project management, covering technical advisory work, due diligence and a proven track record of delivering professional services.

Recently, the company announced its voluntary withdrawal from membership of the Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) to address on-going criticism of the company’s performance especially in relation to community engagement.

Strengthening the capacity and experience of the GVL Sustainability Department was among a number of key commitments outlined in a draft sustainability action plan, which aims to reset GVL’s sustainability journey to bring it back into the RSPO within 12-18 months.

Mr. Patrice Lobet, GVL CEO, said:”I am delighted to be able to announce the appointment of these two highly qualified and experienced individuals to the GVL team. With their expertise and commitment of our Liberian team, I am confident GVL can move forward with its plans for sustainable palm oil production for the benefit of the local communities and the country.”