Most NDPE policies draw the line at 'no development on peat'. Some specify a depth — typically 50cm — below which an area is considered peat and off-limits. Sounds simple. It isn't.
Three measurements, three answers
We ran field cores at 42 sample points across a single concession in Sarawak. We then compared the results to two satellite-derived peat depth products and to the supplier's own self-reported peat map. The three sources agreed on classification at fewer than half of the sample points.
42
Field cores taken
47%
Agreement across all three sources
11
Sites classified as 'mineral soil' by supplier but >50cm peat in field
6
Sites flagged as peat by satellite but mineral in field
Why this matters
A concession that looks NDPE-compliant on a desk review can fail comprehensively in the field. The reverse is also true — areas flagged as peat by remote sensing sometimes aren't, and good supplier development depends on knowing the difference rather than reflexively suspending operations.
"Peat depth is a measurement, not an opinion. Three different measurement methods give you three different answers — pick yours deliberately."
Our working rule
- Satellite products are screening tools, not classification tools. Use them to prioritise field work, not to make sourcing decisions.
- Self-reported maps from the operator are starting points, never end points.
- Field cores remain the standard for any decision with financial or reputational consequences.
The hard part isn't the science. It's deciding which of three honest answers you'll let your policy stand on.