SALCRA practices a zero-burning technique both in the replanting and development of new areas for oil palm plantations. Palms are felled, chipped and/ or shredded, and trees and sapling are staked in windrow and left to decompose on site.

Scarpping

Chipping

View of Replanting Area

This approach is superior to the slash-and-burn technique because:

• It allows complete return of organic matter to the soil, which helps to preserve, restore and improve soil chemical and fertility as well as physical properties of the soil.
• Immediate replanting of trees can be carried out, as the new stands can be planted simultaneously while felling and shredding are being done.
• Replanting can be done without violating the Environmental Quality (Clean Air), and contributes positively towards efforts in minimizing global warming.