The Orang Utan Republik Foundation leverages its expertise, strategic positioning, and available resources to collaborate with various organizations on initiatives and projects aimed at advancing its mission and vision. Below, you'll find a list of partnership programs currently in progress.
Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO)
In late 2011, the Orang Utan Republik Foundation (OURF) became a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), joining at the invitation of the Orangutan Land Trust. OURF’s goal in joining this influential body was to ensure that orangutan conservation had a strong voice in shaping the future of the palm oil industry.
By October 2012, OURF was participating alongside hundreds of other stakeholders at the RSPO’s annual general assembly. Our presence at the table brought advocacy, insight, and a vote to support sustainable practices that protect orangutans and their forest habitats.
The RSPO’s mission is to transform the palm oil industry by promoting sustainable production of one of the world’s most versatile and widely used vegetable oils. Through the development and enforcement of rigorous environmental and social standards, the RSPO enables all actors in the supply chain—from growers and millers to traders, retailers, and manufacturers—to understand and implement the necessary practices for RSPO certification. OURF continues to support this mission by championing practices that safeguard biodiversity and the ecosystems upon which orangutans depend.
More about OURF's position can be found here.
Lord of the Trees (LOTT)-Orang Utan Republik Foundation (OURF)
The collaborative program between Lord of the Trees (LOTT) and the Orang Utan Republik Foundation (OURF) will introduce a unique scholarship initiative called ROCKET (Rainforest Orangutan Conservation Knowledge Education with Technology) for select students within the Orangutan Caring Scholarship program that will engage them in multi-year projects aligned with OURF's mission. Developing scholars will play a pivotal role in LOTT's technology-driven research, contributing to innovation and legacy building.
As part of the ROCKET program, students will actively participate in the development of AI algorithms and predictive models utilizing LOTT's cutting-edge technology, which includes artificial intelligence, drones, and robotics. These tools will significantly enhance orangutan population monitoring and behavior prediction, contributing to the broader field of scientific knowledge. It also promotes global exposure, leadership development, community outreach, and publication opportunities. Scholars gain access to a diverse mentorship network, enhancing their academic and professional journey. These initiatives will strengthen OURF's mission while providing a holistic educational experience for students, reinforcing the fight to protect orangutans and their habitats. ROCKET is scheduled to launch in late 2024 or early 2025.
Read more about ROCKET here
PT HOPE - Orang Utan Republik Foundation (OURF)
OURF will serve as an advisory partner organization with PT HOPE, an Indonesian company that will be managing large areas of forest in East Kalimantan for the primary purpose of supporting orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus morio) conservation while ensuring the ecological integrity of these forest ecosystems and their biodiversity for generations to come. Scheduled for 2024.
Tuanan Orangutan Research Program (TORP)
OURF will partner with TORP to support the Tuanan Orangutan Research Station, enhancing its role as a vital research, conservation, and education facility. Unlike other orangutan research stations, Tuanan is uniquely situated outside a national park, where it lacks the protective status typically granted to such areas. Scheduled for 2025.