Numerous empirical studies have highlighted strategies for resolving social conflicts often arising from palm oil plantation activities. This research presents a novel approach by delving into the community’s role and employing statistical techniques in resolving social conflicts. How does statistics solve this problem? Six variables have been determined to address this question. This research assesses the effect of environmental damage, community participation, social conflict, environmental management, and community capability on resolving social conflicts between locals and palm oil in plantation communities. Path analysis was employed to analyze these variables’ direct and indirect relationship. This involved 101 questionnaires and key informant interviews between December 12 and 28, 2023. The findings shed light on the direct significant effect of environmental damage and community participation in resolving social conflicts. Besides, community capability will have a significant indirect effect. Contributing to exploring the community’s role, it highlights the intricate dynamics involved in conflict resolution processes. Findings inform the importance of community engagement in reducing social conflict and promoting sustainable environmental practices in the palm oil sector. The research outcomes underscore the critical role of community engagement and capacity-building in resolving social conflicts, offering valuable insights for policymakers to develop more effective, evidence-based strategies that promote sustainable environmental management and social harmony in palm oil-producing regions. © The Author(s) 2026.