Did you know that palm oil is found in 40-50% of household products in the United States?

Palm oil is often used in baked goods, candies, cosmetics, shampoo, washing detergents, toothpaste, and soap. 

Where does palm oil come from?

Originally from West Africa, oil palm trees love the heat and rain. Because of its many uses, oil palm is now grown throughout Africa, Asia, North and South America. 

Why be concerned? 

85% of the palm oil used in the global industry is produced and exported from Indonesia and Malaysia, and mostly in an unsustainable manner. 

How is that a problem? 

The palm oil industry is responsible for issues of deforestation, habitat degradation, climate change, animal cruelty and indigenous rights abuses. Areas used for farming oil palms are home to people who depend on the forest for survival. These areas are also home to orangutans, tigers, rhinos, and other endangered wildlife. 

What can we do?

• Become informed, and take action!

• Use products that are free of palm oil.

• Research the certification process of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).

 

Your efforts will help to preserve wild habitats, and empower communities of indigenous people impacted by the palm oil industry!