Palm Oil: Hero or Zero? How to Communicate About Palm Oil
The Singapore Alliance for Sustainable Palm Oil conducted a virtual webinar to explain the “why” and “how” businesses should communicate to consumers about sustainable palm oil.
Speakers from WWF-Singapore and Synthesis Sustainability Lab elaborated on the challenges and misconceptions affecting demand for sustainable palm oil, as well as the right communication approaches to boost consumer awareness and demand.
In case you were not able to attend the event, please find a link to the recording here.
Businesses play a critical role in halting deforestation and biodiversity loss, and minimizing social risks linked to unsustainable palm oil production. Boycotting palm oil and staying silent are not the solutions. Instead, businesses can ensure that they have a meaningful sustainable palm oil commitment and can help guide consumers to making the right choices by labeling their products and communicating about the benefits of sustainable production.
Actions Towards a Sustainable Palm Oil Sector Workshop
The Singapore Alliance for Sustainable Palm Oil (SASPO) held a very successful workshop on 8 December 2022 about sustainable palm oil in Singapore. We were glad to welcome nearly 40 participants from Singapore-based companies across the palm oil supply chain to be a part of the discussion.
Speakers from WWF-Singapore, Musim Mas and Mandai provided insights on actions companies can take in their own supply chains to ensure the procurement of deforestation and conversion-free palm oil and discussed existing challenges, price premiums, NDPE commitments, and more.
In addition, there was a fun breakout activity organized by the Round Table on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) to get the participants to build and understand the different supply chain models with their pros and cons.
It was amazing to see the interest from companies wanting to take action and support the transformation towards a sustainable palm oil industry!
The Business Case for Sustainable Palm Oil
As the global consumer demand for sustainable products increases, companies are investigating ways to reduce the environmental and social footprint of their supply chains. For companies that utilize palm oil in their products, the benefits of sourcing sustainable palm oil are many. From lowering reputational and financial risks, to elevating your company’s brand, sustainable palm oil is a profitable choice for businesses.
WWF-Singapore and the Singapore Alliance for Sustainable Palm Oil (SASPO) conducted a virtual seminar to explain the mechanisms and benefits of sourcing sustainable palm oil for businesses.
During the event, representatives from WWF-Singapore and the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) explained how businesses can shift towards sourcing sustainable palm oil and the direct benefits. Corporate leaders also shared their own experiences with branding opportunities from sourcing sustainable palm oil and how sustainable procurement can reduce financial risks.
In case you were not able to attend the event, please find a link to the recording here.
There is no better time than now for businesses to make the switch as the need for sustainable products and services is more evident than ever. Businesses play a critical role in halting deforestation and biodiversity loss. By switching to certified sustainable palm oil, businesses can turn reputational and financial risks into a valuable opportunity.
Deforestation in Asia: Challenges & solutions for the palm oil industry
Palm oil is the world’s most versatile vegetable oil. It is in nearly everything, from packaged food products to deodorant and lipstick. Grown only in the tropics, it contributes to economic development in many regions, especially Southeast Asia. If produced sustainably, this crop can benefit both people and nature.
However, unsustainable production has led to widespread destruction of rainforests and biodiversity. Habitats of endangered species like the orangutan and Sumatran rhino continue to be threatened, along with the rights of local communities and indigenous people.
To shed light on this important topic, WWF held a four-part webinar series, “Deforestation in Asia: Challenges & solutions for the palm oil industry” from 25 May – 3 June 2021. The webinar series concluded with more than 800 attendees spanning various sectors of the palm oil supply chain. By providing an overview of the palm oil landscape in Singapore, referencing successful case studies, and delving into discussions targeted at buyers and financial institutions, the series provided a well-rounded approach for increasing CSPO uptake.
The recordings and materials have been consolidated for your viewing pleasure:
- (Webinar 1) Palm oil consumption and trade flows in Asia: Risks and opportunities for action
Recording | Presentation deck - (Webinar 2) Palm oil industry transformation in Asia: Role and responsibility of buyers
Recording | Presentation Deck - (Webinar 3) Addressing palm oil-driven deforestation: A way forward for financial institutions
Recording | Presentation Deck - (Webinar 4) The Living Landscapes approach: Progress and lessons from Sabah
Recording | Presentation Deck
Recognition of SASPO’s Commitments to Sustainable Palm Oil
Minister Masagos Zulkifli at SASPO’s Commitments to Sustainable Palm Oil event
Feb 2018
By the end of 2017, SASPO had welcomed 10 new companies, bringing the total member count to 15. The event’s objectives were to celebrate and demonstrate the successes of its new and founding members. Over 50 people were in attendance, including the event’s guest-of-honour, Masagos Zulkifli, Minister for Environment and Water Resources, SASPO members, representatives of trade associations and members of the press. The event received extensive coverage in over 40 local and international media channels.
Sustainable Palm Oil Leaders’ Summit
Nov 2016
This event marked the initiation of SASPO’s activities since its launch on 27 June 2016. The event’s objectives were firstly, to inspire companies to join the Alliance by demonstrating the achievements of its members; and secondly, facilitate dialogue and networking opportunities between various players in the palm oil industry. The summit was attended by over 100 participants from 40 organisations and endorsed by the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources.
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