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Palm Free Statement
Our Commitment to Responsible Palm Oil Usage in Light of Environmental Concerns
At Eastern Curlew, we take our commitment to environmental responsibility seriously, especially in the context of palm oil usage. The palm oil industry has witnessed rapid growth in recent decades, a growth that has had profound and often negative consequences for our delicate forest ecosystems. We are mindful of these challenges and continuously strive to address them.
Understanding Palm Oil: A Complex Story
Palm oil, a ubiquitous but often unfamiliar ingredient, is likely a part of your daily life, though you might not know much about its origins or prevalence.
It's the most widely consumed vegetable oil globally, found in half of all packaged products, spanning from ice cream to instant meals, shampoo, and lipstick. As the world's population grows and becomes more prosperous, the demand for palm oil is on an upward trajectory.
Indonesia and Malaysia are the dominant producers, accounting for 86% of the world's palm oil supply, and it plays a pivotal role in their economies. It has been instrumental in creating jobs and lifting many out of poverty. The affordability and versatility of palm oil have made it a favoured choice for manufacturers and retailers.
However, the term 'evil' associated with palm oil arises from its environmental impact. The cultivation of palm oil in tropical regions has led to the devastation of vast, verdant rainforests. Palm oil plantations are expanding at an alarming rate, surpassing nearly all other agricultural commodities. This unchecked growth has resulted in the displacement of indigenous species like orangutans, tigers, rhinos, and others. Indigenous communities have also been adversely affected, driven from their ancestral lands and deprived of their livelihoods. Moreover, the rampant deforestation and forest fires have further exacerbated environmental challenges.
United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) & Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP)
A report (Palm-oil-Paradox) from the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and the Great Apes Survival Partnership (GRASP) sheds light on the detrimental impact of palm oil plantations on the environment. This report underscores the devastating destruction of habitats for great apes, endangering these incredible creatures across Southeast Asia and Africa.
The report emphasizes the importance of a clear stance from the conservation community, leaving no room for ambiguity. It raises a critical question: whether we should reject the palm oil industry outright due to its adverse effects on ecosystems and wildlife or if we can coexist, provided that specific conditions are met.
Our Pledge to Sustainable Sourcing:
Eastern Curlew understands the urgency of this matter and is committed to making a positive change. While we may use a limited amount of raw materials derived from sustainably sourced palm oil, we remain vigilant and proactive. Our diligent sourcing practices consider the environmental impact, and we consistently explore and promote palm-oil free alternatives to the ingredients we use.
By supporting Eastern Curlew, you are supporting a brand that not only acknowledges the concerns surrounding palm oil but also actively works towards being part of the solution. Together, we can foster a strong consensus in favor of sustainable beauty practices, safeguarding our planet and the diverse ecosystems it holds. Thank you for joining us on this journey towards a more harmonious coexistence with nature.
