Dampak Sertifikasi ISPO terhadap Usahatani Kelapa Sawit Petani Swadaya di Kecamatan Laut Tador Kabupaten Batu Bara

Abstract

ISPO certification aims to ensure that oil palm management takes place legally and sustainably. However, its implementation among independent smallholders is still low and its impact on farming, especially aspects of cultivation and business results, has not been widely studied. This study aims to determine the differences in cultivation practices (fertilizer dosage, paraquat pesticide use, and harvesting criteria), productivity, selling price, and income between ISPO and non-ISPO farmers. The method used was a quantitative comparative approach with Independent Sample T-Test, Mann Whitney U, and Chi-Square analysis. The sample was determined using Non-Proportionate Stratified Sampling totaling 76 farmers (38 ISPO and 38 non-ISPO farmers). The results showed that ISPO farmers tend to use more recommended fertilizer doses and 95% no longer use paraquat-based pesticides. Although the difference is not statistically significant, 63% of ISPO farmers apply more selective harvesting criteria using loose fruits as the main reference. Productivity and FFB selling prices are higher among ISPO farmers, supported by better cultivation practices and organized marketing through gapoktan. Although the farming costs of ISPO farmers are higher, the net income earned is still higher due to superior yields and selling prices.