Jatropha plants naturally attract a large bee population as their flowers are polli­nated by bees. SORESIN purchases and assists communities in the construction and installation of bee hives in strategic locations within a project area. Tending the hives as well as selling the harvested honey provides an additional source of lasting income to the communities while helping our Jatropha trees thrive and prosper.

6.7.3

Company-Community Committees

Before SORESIN begins work on any parcel of land, SORESIN works in concert with governmental and tribal authorities as well as the members of the commu­nity to assure the project is successful not simply from a profit-return standpoint, but also that is undertaken in a way that truly benefits the people directly affected by its presence in a region. SORESIN asks questions and listen, and then works with community leaders to develop a specific plan to address everything from farmland protection and fire safety to health issues and child welfare.

Then, to assure the plan is followed and that the lines ofcommunication remain open, Community Committees are formed for each community in the project area, as well as a Company-Community Committee that includes representatives from each of the Community Committees, members of both local tribal and govern­mental bodies, youth and women’s groups representatives, opinion leaders, and company representatives. This primary committee is responsible for handling any issues, concerns, grievances, requests, and needs, and for passing along informa­tion and announcements to ensure understanding of all company undertakings.

6.7.4