How to accelerate global sustainable palm oil development  

Dear sustainable palm oil friends, partners and colleagues, 

By reaching 93% uptake of sustainable palm oil in Europe for food, feed and oleochemical, the palm oil sector is a frontrunner in sustainability, and ahead of most other commodities, even ahead of legislation.

I strongly believe that we have come this far, by effective cooperation and demonstrating leadership in prioritising common interest over individual gains.

That’s why we support the European Commission's ambition in combating deforestation. It is however exactly in the omission of cooperation and a joint approachthat the proposed legislation falls short.

Producing countries are hardly involved; the specific position of smallholders has not been considered and the value and use of proven effective certification schemes such as the RSPO, are not incorporated.

The European palm oil industryhas been internationally active for many years in making the palm oil more sustainable. We have a great deal of knowledge and experience in this field and we are convinced that the proposed EU regulation will not lead to improvements in high-risk areas.

Let's seize the opportunity to combat deforestation with legislation, by building on what has been achieved in Europe. By doing that, we serve both our urgent need for deforestation-free palm oil, as well as support producing countries to address poverty; social issues and protecting biodiversity.

Let’s encourage - and not discourage - companies and governments to make the changes so urgently needed. And let’s accelerate global sustainable palm oil development to preserve our planet for current and future generations.

Frans Claassen

Chair European Palm Oil Alliance