A new study co-authored by Prof. Dr. Janina Grabs from the Sustainability Research Group at the University of Basel examines how zero-deforestation commitments are experienced by smallholder farmers and local communities in Indonesia.

Based on interviews and focus group discussions with farmers, cooperatives, and local stakeholders, the study finds that sustainability initiatives often pay insufficient attention to participation, trust, and existing community-company relationships. The authors argue that successful sustainability transformations require more than technical compliance measures. Instead, they should place greater emphasis on meaningful engagement, local perspectives, and long-term relationships.

The findings contribute to ongoing debates on sustainability governance, equity, and the social dimensions of global supply-chain regulation.

Publication:
Chandra, A., Grabs, J., Meemken, E.-M. & Garrett, R.D. (2026). Relational aspects and care-based support in Zero-Deforestation Commitments. PLOS Sustainability and Transformation.