VIDEO: Palm Oil Supply Chain

 

 

This video explains the journey of palm oil from plantation to product, highlighting both the economic importance of palm oil and the environmental and social issues connected to its production. It covers how palm oil is grown, harvested, processed, and transported, and it draws attention to the impact on rainforests, biodiversity loss (especially species such as orangutans and tigers), and how unsustainable practices contribute to deforestation and habitat destruction. The video emphasises the role of certification schemes and sustainable sourcing as ways to reduce harm.

It also encourages viewers to think about their own consumption choices, exploring how everyday products often contain palm oil and what consumers can do to support sustainable palm oil - such as looking for recognised eco-labels. The video aims to build awareness about global supply chains, environmental responsibility, and how individual and collective actions can help protect ecosystems.

Learning Outcomes:

• Understand what palm oil is, where it comes from, and how it enters the global supply chain

• Recognise the environmental impacts of palm oil production, particularly deforestation, biodiversity loss, and carbon emissions

• Identify social issues linked to palm oil cultivation, including land rights and livelihoods of local communities

• Learn about sustainable palm oil certification schemes and ways consumers can make more responsible choices

Curriculum Links:

• Science: Ecosystems, biodiversity, impact of human activity on environments

• Geography: Global supply chains, rainforest degradation, land-use change

• Citizenship: Ethical consumerism, awareness of sustainability issues, human-environment interaction

• Economics / Business Studies: Trade, certifications, corporate responsibility, consumer choices