ECO-CHURCH TIPS
This month back on the subject of food. This time PALM OIL.
In recent years people have realised how many foods, toiletries and
other items have palm oil in them. It never used to be this way.
In some tropical countries, vast areas of land and forest have been
erased and planted up with palm oil plants in order to keep up with
demand globally. This has had a devastating effect on the environment
and wildlife, especially orangutangs, forest elephants and Sumatran rhinos.
Humans have been affected too by land grabs, corruption, forced eviction
of indigenous people, forced labour, child labour and violation of human rights on some plantations.
What can we do as individuals?
Well, when shopping look at the contents list on the packet. Some items don’t have palm oil in them, some do, even the humble packet of biscuits. As consumers we can make conscious decisions about what we buy.
- Even if you regularly purchased just one item without palm oil it would help.
- Or you could buy a product with sustainably sourced palm oil, as this is regulated more.
- Make your own foods/products using your own recipes. At least you know what’s in it!
Sue Garfield