Global Governance - (Palm oil 🌴) Flashcards
Who are the two largest palm oil producers?
Indonesia and Malaysia.
What percent of global palm oil production is in Indonesia and Malaysia?
Indonesia - 59%.
Malaysia - 25%.
What was the annual global production of palm oil in metric tonnes as of 2023?
77 million.
Who are the 4 largest consumers of palm oil in the world?
India, China, EU and USA.
What are the main uses of palm oil?
Food products (40-50%), biofuels, cosmetics and industrial applications.
True or false - It is predicted the global demand will decrease over time.
False - It is predicted that the global demand for palm oil will increase as the population increases and there is economic development.
Indonesia and Malaysia account for what percent of global exports of palm oil?
85%.
What is the palm oil revenue?
Contributes billions to producer economies and employs millions.
Why can the price of palm oil vary?
It is influenced by weather, trade policies and sustainability concerns.
Between 2010 and 2020 what percent of global deforestation was palm oil production responsible for?
8%.
Palm oil production and deforestation leads to biodiversity loss. What species does it put under threat?
Orangutangs, tigers and rhinos.
In what ways does the global palm oil production lead to climate change?
Deforestation and land conservation leading to the release of carbon.
What are the labour and human rights issues with palm oil?
Reports of exploitation, child labour and land conflicts.
Who are the RSPO?
Roundtable on sustainable palm oil.
When was the RSPO established?
2004.
What does the RSPO do?
Certifies sustainable palm oil.
What are some of the successes of the RSPO?
✅ Successes of the RSPO
Encouraged sustainable production – The RSPO has developed a certification scheme that promotes sustainable palm oil production, reducing deforestation and habitat destruction.
Increased consumer awareness – Many global brands, such as Unilever and Nestlé, now use RSPO-certified palm oil, raising awareness and demand for sustainable practices.
Provided economic benefits – Certification can improve market access and revenue for producers, especially smallholders who meet sustainability standards.
What are some of the failures of the RSPO?
❌ Failures of the RSPO
Weak enforcement of standards – Some RSPO-certified plantations have been found engaging in deforestation and land conflicts, highlighting issues with compliance and monitoring.
Limited impact on deforestation – While RSPO certification aims to reduce deforestation, research suggests that illegal clearing still occurs, even within certified supply chains.
Exclusion of small farmers – The high costs and bureaucratic processes of RSPO certification make it difficult for smallholders to participate, potentially marginalizing them from the global market.
What did the EU deforestation regulation 2023 do?
Bans imports linked to deforestation.
What does Indonesia’s Moratorium on New palm plantations do?
Aims to limit deforestation.
What are some of the alternatives to palm oil?
Shea Butter, Rapeseed and synthetic substitutes.
