New Trademark Marks A Turning Point For Sustainable Palm Oil

  Trademark copyright rspo.org

On May 31st 2011, the more than 500 members of the RSPO were finally given the opportunity to clearly display to their consumers that their products contain sustainable palm-derived ingredients, with the release of the RSPO's new trademark in more than 60 countries worldwide.

This also applies to the major palm oil markets and although consumers all around the world are becoming more aware of the fact that palm oil and products derived from it are almost impossible to avoid in their daily shopping, they are now actually able to make a more informed decision about the products that they purchase.

Oil Palm Fruit Found in more than 1 in 10 products on the supermarket shelves from soap to chocolate and pizza to salad dressing, the production of palm oil has increased dramatically particularly over the past decade across the tropics, but many companies have little or no idea about where their palm-derived ingredients have actually come from.

The new trademark can be used by members of the RSPO on product packaging and in brand communication to encourage the awareness of their commitment to sustainable palm oil. However, in order to be able to use the trademark, evidence that all palm-derived ingredients have been sourced in compliance with RSPO standards must be provided.

Vast Plantation Java Although this is considered to be an enormous milestone in the increasingly concerning palm oil trade, the vast majority of the palm oil and the products that are derived from it comes from unsustainable sources. The industry continues to have devastating implications in areas that are particularly important to conservation throughout South-East Asia, South America and Western Africa.

Save the rainforest. Save the orang-utan. Save the world. Sign the petition today at Palm Oil Campaign