NBPOL Foundation

Established in 1997 as a registered charitable organisation in Papua New Guinea, the NBPOL Foundation was created to support long‑term community development across Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

The Foundation focuses on improving health, education and community wellbeing, particularly in communities located around NBPOL’s operational areas. Since its inception, it has supported local communities through targeted donations, community‑based projects and enhancements to education and healthcare facilities.

The Foundation’s focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and Papua New Guinea Vision 2050, ensuring that community investments contribute to nationally and globally recognised development priorities.

In 2013, the NBPOL Foundation commissioned a Community Baseline Assessment to identify priority development needs. The assessment, conducted by Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO), engaged more than 600 community members across 40 communities located within a 10‑kilometre radius of NBPOL’s operations.

The findings helped shape a structured, needs‑based approach to community investment and programme design

Following the baseline assessment, NBPOL introduced the One‑Hour Principle — an initiative aimed at ensuring communities have access to:

• Primary education
• Potable water
• Basic healthcare

within a one‑hour walking distance.

This principle has since been embedded into land‑use and development planning considerations, supporting responsible decision‑making that balances community needs with environmental protection

The Foundation’s programmes are guided by clear thematic pillars that support sustainable, community‑led development and long‑term social outcomes.

Learning More and Getting Involved
Examples of the Foundation’s work can be found through:

• Local media coverage
• NBPOL Sustainability Reports
• NBPOL Stories

For enquiries or to explore opportunities to support the Foundation’s work, please contact: nbpol.info@sdguthrie.com