RSPO Peatlands Working Group 2 (PLWG-2) has adopted the common definition of ‘Histosol’ (organic soil) effective November 2018 as follows:
Histosols (organic soils) are soils with cumulative organic layer(s) comprising more than half of the upper 80cm or 100cm of the soil surface containing 35% or more of organic matter (35% or more Loss on Ignition) or 18% or more organic carbon (FAO 1998, 2006/7; USDA 2014; IUSS 1930).
The definition of ‘Histosol’ (FAO 1998, 2006/7; USDA 2014) above will be used for regions without its own specific definition. In other regions, Histosols have been further sub-classified into different sub types. In Malaysia, Histosols are subdivided into muck and peat soil.
RSPO recognises the use of the above definitions in Indonesia and Malaysia for the purpose of management of existing plantations.
An alternate nationally accepted definition may be proposed through the National Interpretation (NI) process for the RSPO Principles and Criteria.
Keep reading

Rowo Ombo: From Neglected Swamp to a Symbol of Hope and Conservation in Jambi, Indonesia

Save the Date: The 22nd General Assembly (GA22) of RSPO Members

Access into prisma

10 Years of RSPO in China: Driving Palm Oil Transformation Towards Sustainability

Updated Trace Function in prisma

Call for Expression of Interest: Independent Investigation of a Complaint

Latin American Smallholders, Key Global Brands Gather in Peruvian Amazon to Advance Sustainable Palm Oil

RSPO Forum for Members and Certification Bodies 2025: Strengthening Capacities and Building Bridges with RSPO Members
