Sustainable Palm Oil
In the last several years, the world has been exposed to a unique and traditional vegetable oil, Palm Oil. Considered a healthy alternative to animal based oils, palm oil is loaded with vital nutrients like Vitamin A and E, has a long shelf life and a high melting point. All of these things make Palm Oil an attractive option for those seeking healthy oil products.
Traditionally used throughout the African Continent, Palm Oil has been relatively unheard of in the United States. Used for cooking, baking and in the production of shortening and margarine, Palm Oil is typically produced on a small scale. Recent research into the benefits of the oil as well as marketing tactics have increased the world wide awareness of the oil and have led to a resulting increase of demand.
Throughout the world, 95 million tons of vegetable oil is produced each year. While soy oil is the largest crop, today Palm Oil is running a close second. The increase in its use in food production has increased and so has the non-food use of the oil. As the popularity and demand for Palm Oil increases, it is important that the industry find ways to ensure the production of the oil is sustainable.
Recent demand increases have led to cultivation of previously un-cultivated areas. Additionally, the oil palm grows only in tropical area of Asia, South America and Africa. These factors combine to create an overwhelming need for sustainable measures of cultivation.
Simply put, sustainable production of Palm Oil is a method of cultivating the oil palm that seeks to preserve the environment through several methods. By minimizing the impact of cultivation on soil, animal habitats, water resources and natural resources, sustainable agriculture will allow for the continued cultivation of the oil palm and growth of the Palm Oil industry.
Farms must be carefully managed to ensure that sustainable methods of agriculture are implemented. These include:
- No-till farming: a process by which soils are ‘tilled’ or disturbed only where seeds will be planted. This allows previous crop detritus to cover the seedbed, providing it protection and making watering demands less strident.
- Crop Rotation: A process by which different plants are planted on the same land in consecutive years in order to control disease and insects as well as increase fertility of soil.
- Runoff Protection: A process by which farmers protect surrounding lands from water and soil runoff that may contain harmful chemicals.
By implementing these practices as well as focusing on green methods of farming, it is likely that the production of Palm Oil can continue to grow without having a negative impact on the environment.
A drive towards healthier living, green life and sustainability of the planet are the driving forces behind the increased interest in Palm Oil. Over the next few years, as demand continues to increase, oil palm cultivators must ensure the protection of their lands while continuing to provide a healthy and unique oil alternative.