Social impact
At Norteak, we are committed to fostering positive change in the communities where we operate. Our approach integrates education, employment, gender equality, health, food security, and social responsibility—ensuring a sustainable and thriving future for all.
One more member of the community
Norteak is deeply rooted in the regions where we work. As the largest employer in the area, we take responsibility for driving progress and well-being—alongside the community, not apart from it. Our impact is built on shared responsibility, collaboration, and long-term sustainability.
As a trusted community partner, we work with local residents to develop and maintain essential infrastructure such as roads and water systems that improve daily life. We also provide land for community cemeteries and support cultural initiatives that reflect local needs—reinforcing our long-standing commitment to social well-being.
Education
Knowledge fuels progress. Norteak invests in people by training rural workers, offering university internships, and delivering sustainability workshops in local schools. Our goal is to build local expertise, reduce reliance on external specialists, and foster self-sufficient communities.
Access to education and training empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and creates long-term opportunities for sustainable development. By equipping people with skills and knowledge, we help break the cycle of poverty and dependency.
trained through internal programs
Employer
As an employer, Norteak is committed to providing safe, stable jobs that offer real career development opportunities. We actively support skill-building and lifelong learning, enabling our workforce to grow professionally and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Job security and continuous training are essential for long-term prosperity. Through fair wages, professional development, and support for local businesses, we contribute to lasting economic stability.
Making Norteak the largest employer in the region
Economic Actor
Norteak stimulates the local economy by integrating forestry-related industries and supporting small enterprises and service providers. This strengthens the regional value chain and creates jobs beyond our own operations, promoting resilience and growth throughout the community.
Gender Equality & Inclusion
A sustainable future must be inclusive. Norteak ensures equal opportunities for women by providing access to leadership roles, enforcing equal pay, and cultivating a culture of respect and empowerment.
We are proud that a recent staff survey showed female employees perceive discrimination and sexual harassment as virtually non-existent—evidence of our commitment to a safe and inclusive workplace.
Health, Safety & Well-being
A healthy workforce is a productive one. We ensure all employees are registered with social security and implement strict health and safety protocols. Our priority is to provide a safe, supportive environment that promotes both physical and mental well-being.
Covered by public social security
Specialized Workers & Participatory Leadership
We believe that those closest to the work should help shape how it’s done. Involving specialized workers in identifying challenges and proposing solutions—whether related to safety, efficiency, or benefits—enhances commitment and performance.
We hold regular group meetings for planning, evaluation, and feedback. These sessions are also a platform to identify and promote new supervisors and foremen from within, reducing reliance on external hires and strengthening local leadership.
Food Security & Sustainable Land Use
Our sustainability efforts extend beyond forestry. By allowing local farmers to grow crops within our plantations at a symbolic cost, we help boost food security, diversify livelihoods, and reduce dependence on cattle farming—encouraging a more resilient, sustainable land use model.
Local Impact & Community Engagement
As the largest employer in the region, Norteak understands that our work profoundly impacts the surrounding communities. We conduct regular staff surveys and a comprehensive living conditions study every five years.
We also maintain close, ongoing dialogue with local leaders and institutions—an engagement that has grown stronger as more community members have taken on leadership roles within the company.Feedback from these channels helps us continuously refine our practices and enhance our positive contribution to the community.
Certifications
Norteak's plantations have been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC™) since 2015, recognizing our commitment to responsible forestry and social responsibility. In late 2024, we also achieved CCB (Climate, Community & Biodiversity) certification from VERRA. While tied to our carbon credit initiatives, this certification specifically affirms our efforts to generate real, lasting benefits for local communities and the environment.
