LEMCO is 100% owned, managed and run by an Australian team of conservation management professionals. LEMCO is working to assist with planning and setup of well run plantations, and organic self-sufficient farms. Both to be characterized by multi-crops, with energy and water efficient low-carbon technology. LEMCO understands that Agricultural Development is the focus for creating and supporting Rur
al Economic Growth Centers and conserving rainforests. Managing land assets in a sustainable way is the key to creating a balance needed between stopping destruction of rainforest and fostering economic progress. Since starting in 2007 LEMCO has been involved in securing lands that have then then attracted funding for rural development. Some of the places where LEMCO has had the opportunity to work include Australia, Philippines, Indonesia, Peru, Colombia, Brazil and Solomon Islands. To help with developing Rural Economic Growth Centres, LEMCO is working to implement a new way to fund sustainable development and conservation initiatives. This will create a standard that will assist with attracting funding from governments, NGOs, corporates, businesses, investment groups and even individuals. This strategy will address conservation values as well as land cultivation values. Rural Economic Growth Centres can be created through a strong partnership being set up between LEMCO and the following stakeholders:
National Government
Investors
Resources Owners
Identifying potential Rural Economic Growth Centres to be created. Work on a wider strategy for creating trade and development with access to Sea Ports and Air Cargo. Working with Governments to create assistance. International Marketing and Branding. LEMCO’s RURAL DEVELOPMENT MODEL
There a Five Key Elements for Fostering Rural Economic Growth Centre Development as follows:
Energy – needed for Electricity and Fuel
Agricultural Production
Adequate Housing
Accessible Health Centres
Communication and Education
This system enables communities to become self-sufficient without any reliance on outside artificially scarce and therefore unaffordable commodities. LEMCO’s strategy for creating growth centres relies on creating concentrated areas of sustainable and integrated commercial farms growing organic produce for export markets supported by local growers. LEMCO has a Sustainable and Integrated Organic Farming Model
Local small growers will be supported through micro-financing to establish 1 to 2 ha plots. Growers can earn USD$500 per month within 6 months of starting. LEMCO has committed to Customary Land owners:
Regular Payments of 15% Royalties to Land Owners on any harvested timbers resulting from land clearing. Regular Payment of leases for all lands being developed
Employment and training of local persons to be guaranteed
Supporting and sponsoring local community events
Holding regular consolatory meetings with land owner Trust Boards to be setup to ensure community needs are supported as progress is created.
