Palm oil and it's production is damaging to the environment, the indigenous population, and to our health. Palm oil is found in over 90% of item's found in our grocery stores today. It is in our food and cosmetics for the most part.
To grow palm oil, the rainforest lands are commonly used. Rainforests are cleared by millions of hectares through fire or clear cutting. If logging money is of no interest to the company, forest fires may be started to clear the area. This releases CO2 gas emissions, and wildlife like slow moving Orangutans sometimes get caught in the fire as they are not quick enough to escape. This also diminishes habitat for endangered species such as the Orangutan or Sumatran Tiger. It is estimated that 15 orangutans die every day due to forest clearing for palm oil plantations.
The indigenous of the area if given the opportunity to work on the plantation are usually given unfair wages and work in bad conditions. Water supply can also be polluted by the mills and cause illness among the people.
The Amazon Rainforest is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet. It is being cleared to produce an unnecessary product that is essential in no way. Read labels, research it, and cut down consumption as much as possible. Petition to make clear labeling mandatory and to create standardized eco-friendly plantations.
