Givaudan Looks To Ensure Sustainable Patchouli Supply Chain In Indonesia

Swiss fragrances & flavours firm, Givaudan, is strengthening its sustainable patchouli oil sourcing and improving conditions for smallholder producers in its collection network on the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia.

This is being done through a multi-year project funded by the Givaudan Foundation and in cooperation with the international non-governmental organisation, Swisscontact. The goal of the initiative is to promote best practices and improve living standards among the patchouli producer community while protecting precious natural resources on the island.

The project aims to offer training programmes to over 1,000 patchouli producers and their families on good agricultural and distillation practices, improved management of household income, as well as education on nutrition. Additionally, smallholder patchouli distillation units will be renovated to improve energy efficiency and reduce firewood consumption; trees will be planted as part of the climate-smart cultivation approach.

Givaudan’s collection network in Indonesia comprises hundreds of smallholder farmers and distillers of patchouli oil on the island of Sulawesi since 2013, securing 100% of the supply of the essential ingredient.

“We are pleased to be working with Givaudan on this project which represents a first for sustainable Indonesian patchouli production in terms of scope. In partnership with the producers, their families and local government actors, we aim to help increase smallholder production yields, promote the protection of natural resources and create local ownership in the project,” said Mr. Peter Bissegger, Director Market Development, Swisscontact.

Patchouli oil is prized by perfumers for its powerful, earthy and long-lasting character. The essential oil is distilled from the dried leaves of the patchouli plant and used to inspire perfumers’ palettes for everything from fine fragrances to fabric care products.