Strengthening Governance in Cesar and Magdalena and Launching of the Guidelines for Sustainable Origin Model in Palm Oil

This story was originally published on SourceUp.

Last June 4, 2025 marked a transformative moment for the PPI Compacts in the landscapes of Cesar and Magdalena and the implementation of the NISCOPS program in Colombia — and we’re proud to share two milestones that are setting the stage for lasting impact. 

First, we took a bold step toward institutional sustainability by formalizing a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Magdalena and the University Foundation of the Andean Area in Cesar. This marks a pivotal transition: after five years of  meaningful work with the PPI Compacts, the leadership of the Technical Secretariat, as of 2026, will be assumed by these academic institutions in each respective department. This alliance represents a game-changing shift in our governance model — embedding technical capacity at the territorial level and integrating the rich expertise of local academia. It reflects our long-term vision to decentralize leadershipempower local actors, and ensure that the landscapes continue to thrive beyond any single programmatic cycle.

Second, we are proud to announce the official launch of the Guidelines for the Implementation of the Colombian Sustainable Origin Model for Palm Oil — a major milestone for the NISCOPS program in Colombia.

This achievement represents a step forward in aligning Colombian palm oil production with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). By meeting these new guidelines, we are helping to ensure that Colombian palm oil remains compliant with European sustainability requirements, paving the way for continued access to international markets and reinforcing Colombia’s leadership in responsible palm oil production.

This milestone is not only a testament to the progress of the NISCOPS program but also a demonstration of the country’s commitment to sustainable, inclusive, and deforestation-free agricultural practices. 🌱

At IDH Colombia, we believe in driving change from the ground up —Together, we’re not just building partnerships — we’re shaping the future of sustainable production and inclusive development. 🌍

This impact story is related to the Magdalena Landscape and Cesar Landscape.

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