Madagascar: Supporting natural resource preservation with clove leaf oil producers
Multipronged approach to support clove leaf producers with natural resource preservation
Clove trees are cultivated in Madagascar for both their buds and their leaves. The oil extracted from the leaves is widely used in flavours and fragrances. Farmers producing clove leaf oil are spread across the remote region of Analanjirofo, where they rely heavily on wood as a source of energy for distillation
Sustainable firewood through reforestation
Wood is a renewable energy source, and its use in processing can contribute to climate neutrality when managed sustainably. Ensuring access to firewood from sustainable forestry is therefore essential.
We support distillers and their communities through a natural resource preservation project. Farmers identify plots of land to establish forests dedicated to firewood production. The project provides access to seedlings and supports community mobilisation for tree planting and maintaining these resources sustainably. Along with Givaudan, we have facilitated the planting of more than 1 million trees.
Diversifying income sources
In 2024, a livelihood diversification component was introduced through the development of beekeeping activities for selected distillers. This initiative provides an additional source of income for communities while supporting local ecosystems.
Improving energy efficiency in distillation
To complement these efforts, we have been involved in a multi-stakeholder partnership aimed at developing and implementing energy-efficient distillation units. These innovations significantly reduce wood consumption, helping to preserve natural resources while improving production efficiency.
“I am proud of my efforts because I no longer have any worries about firewood for the production of clove leaf oil or for my daily needs, thanks to the 9,000 trees I have planted with the support received from this project.”
Mr Tsarasoa, villager
Energy-efficient cookstoves for home use
Since 2026, we have also partnered with a specialised organisation to promote and distribute energy-efficient cookstoves to households within the community. This initiative helps reduce fuel consumption (wood or charcoal), lower household expenses and time spent gathering fuel, decrease smoke emissions, and reduce the overall demand for fuelwood.
