The REA group plans the development of its agricultural operations on the basis of environmental impact assessments (including Whitmore & MacKenzie (1995) and Troppenbos (2005)) and advice provided by independent experts. Within the areas already developed, approximately 6,000 hectares have been left intact as conservation reserves with the aim of conserving flora and fauna and enhancing the biodiversity of the landscape. Areas identified as requiring conservation and set aside as part of the planning process for each new development area will be added to the conservation reserves as the group expands. 

The group’s conservation department (conducting its activities under the name “REA Kon”) is responsible for implementing the group’s conservation objectives. REA Kon is led by an experienced local manager with a staff of eight and is advised by an international conservation expert.

REA Kon aims to

• conserve or enhance landscape level biodiversity and natural habitats within the area of the REA group’s agricultural operations
• minimise or eliminate adverse human impacts from the agricultural operations on soil, water and biological communities;
• achieve conservation outcomes that provide long term benefits to biodiversity, local communities and the group.