Palm oil, a common ingredient in numerous products we use daily, has an enormous environmental impact. But the question arises, can we cultivate it sustainably? This article dives deep into the topic, examining the ecological toll, industry regulations, and what we as consumers can do.
The Ubiquity of Palm Oil
Palm oil is a staple in many products we use every day. In 2021, global production exceeded an astonishing 167 million pounds (75.7 million kg) 1. It’s not just our food that contains palm oil; it’s also in household products like soap, shampoo, and cosmetics, and even in biofuel 2.
The oil owes its popularity to its cost-effectiveness and versatility. It acts as a preservative, remains stable under high temperatures, and has a mild flavor and smooth texture. However, the continued growth of the palm oil industry is causing serious environmental concerns.
NOTE
The surge in palm oil use over the past few decades has led to its presence in a wide variety of products, often hidden from consumers’ awareness. Its versatile applications and high yield make it a preferred crop for manufacturers.
The Environmental Impact of Palm Oil
The environmental repercussions of palm oil production are primarily felt in the countries where it’s produced, such as Indonesia and Malaysia. These two nations alone account for nearly 85% of the planet’s palm oil 1. However, the environmental consequences are far-reaching and severe.
Here are some of the most significant environmental issues associated with palm oil production:
- Deforestation: Palm oil production is responsible for nearly half of all deforestation in certain parts of Asia. Clear-cutting forests for agriculture releases greenhouse gases, destroys habitats, and threatens biodiversity [^5^6^7^8].
- Pollution: Large-scale palm oil production results in runoff and pollution of nearby soil and waterways. Deforestation for palm oil plantations is also a major source of air pollution [^4^9^10].
- Loss of Biodiversity: Due to deforestation and habitat loss, many species, including birds, elephants, orangutans, and tigers, are becoming increasingly threatened or endangered in countries that produce palm oil [^8^11^12^13].
- Contributing to Global Warming: The clearing of forests to establish palm oil plantations contributes to global warming by releasing excessive amounts of greenhouse gases into the air [^6^8].
- Uncontrolled Growth and Production: Demand for palm oil is projected to continue rising over the next decade. Production could potentially double in some areas, exacerbating its environmental impact [^5^7].
NOTE
The palm oil industry is a significant contributor to deforestation, greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and biodiversity loss. As the industry continues to expand, these issues are likely to intensify.
Industry Regulations: A Closer Look
Palm oil production is lightly regulated, creating a contentious relationship between corporate interests and consumer or environmental groups demanding changes in production methods. However, implementing regulations may lead to higher prices for consumer goods, lower wages, and job losses for those involved in palm oil cultivation [^9^15^16^17].
Several proposed solutions aim to reduce the industry’s emissions, such as using only previously forested land for palm plantations, protecting carbon-rich lands like peat forests, and improving management of carbon-sensitive areas [^18^19^20^21].
Key Players in Regulation
Organizations like the European Palm Oil Alliance (EPOA) are making commitments against deforestation, land exploitation, and peat forest development. Some grocery stores, such as Iceland Foods, have reformulated store-brand items to remove palm oil 3.
Governments are also stepping in with initiatives like the 2015 Amsterdam Declaration, which aimed to phase out all non-sustainably certified palm oil by 2020 4. Despite these efforts, enforcement is challenging due to corporate influence and a lack of resources.
NOTE
There is currently no single regulatory body overseeing global palm oil production. Various nations and private groups are advocating for a halt to deforestation and the development of carbon-rich lands.
To Use or Not to Use Palm Oil?
The decision to avoid palm oil or to use only sustainably and ethically sourced palm oil is a personal one. The controversies surrounding palm oil production involve environmental, climate change, sustainable agriculture, indigenous people’s land rights, human rights, and labor laws.
While palm oil is nutritionally beneficial due to its healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamins A and E, its current form of production isn’t sustainable long term [^25^26^27^28]. Organizations like Amnesty International, the International Labor Rights Forum, and Human Rights Watch have accused the palm oil industry of using child labor, failing to protect Indigenous lands, and other human rights abuses.
NOTE
Despite its nutritional benefits, the use of palm oil has sparked controversy due to the industry’s environmental and human rights abuses. Some people choose to limit its use or opt for sustainably produced palm oil.
Advocating for Change: How You Can Help
There are several ways you can advocate against the harmful effects of palm oil.
Identifying Palm Oil
Knowing how to spot palm oil on an ingredient list is crucial. Common ingredients derived from palm oil include palmate, palmitate, sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, glyceryl stearate, stearic acid, and vegetable oil 5.
Recognizing Certifications
Purchasing palm oil certified as sustainable by an accrediting body can signal to industry leaders that consumers are concerned about these issues. Common certifications include The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC), and The Rainforest Alliance.
Requesting Transparency
Don’t hesitate to reach out directly to palm oil producers, distributors, and companies that use palm oil in their products. Encourage them to adopt sustainable practices.
Maintaining Pressure
Sign online petitions, send emails, or join protests. You can encourage companies that rely on palm oil to adopt sustainability principles.
Promoting Policy Changes
Advocate for government policies that lessen palm oil’s environmental impact, such as bans on deforestation, stricter trade criteria, and land-use regulation.