Auckland Zoo supports the use of sustainable palm oil.
As a wildlife conservation science organisation, Auckland Zoo is extremely concerned about the devastating environmental and social impacts associated with the unsustainable production of palm oil in some of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
We recognise the importance of the palm oil industry to the economy of developing countries and acknowledge that it is currently the most high-yielding and versatile vegetable oil on the market.
When produced responsibly - where tropical rainforests, peat swamps, wildlife, people within the industry and indigenous populations are protected - palm oil can be the most ecologically sustainable vegetable oil for mass consumption.
We therefore consider that transforming the market to a certified sustainable, traceable, deforestation-free (CSPO) supply of palm oil is the most responsible path, and that shifting the demand from non-CSPO to CSPO is essential. Boycotting palm oil does not offer a long-term solution and will only increase demand for other, less efficient edible oils, leading to similar or worse environmental and social impacts.
