Palm oil is one of the most widely used oils worldwide, but its journey from plantation to product is often misunderstood. At every stage of its production, sustainability is prioritised through practices that benefit the environment, economy, and community. This post outlines the journey of sustainable palm oil, focusing on smallholders who play a vital role in its production, specifically those in Malaysia.
Seedling purchase and planting
The journey begins when farmers purchase approved seedlings from nurseries recognised by the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB). These seedlings are raised by the nursery for the first 11 months before being sold to farmers, ensuring they meet the required standards for healthy growth. The palm trees take around two to three years to mature before they begin to bear fruit, during which time there is no profit for the farmers.
Before planting, land preparation is supported by financial aid and technical assistance from the government. No-burning practices are followed, where cleared vegetation is either left to decompose naturally or buried in trenches, helping to preserve the soil and reduce emissions.
MSPO certification and fertiliser use
Sustainability doesn’t stop at planting. Smallholders and large plantations follow strict guidelines set by the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification. This includes the use of approved compost fertilisers containing essential nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and sodium. Fertiliser is applied roughly four times a year to maintain healthy soil, allowing the palm trees to absorb both soil nutrients and fertiliser, which helps increase yield over time.
Fertilisers are applied during dry conditions to ensure optimal absorption and to prevent being washed away by rain, further promoting efficient use of resources.
Pest management and technological assistance
Large plantations use owls as a natural pest deterrent to control rats, while smaller plantations may face challenges with rat infestations that can lead to some fruit loss. However, the MPOB provides smallholders with access to new harvesting technologies, helping them to improve productivity. Smallholders share feedback on these tools with the MPOB, contributing to ongoing innovation and better pest management practices.
Harvesting and transporting
Once the trees mature, the fruit is harvested. Harvesting is done when the fruit is at its optimal ripeness to ensure the best quality produce. The fruit is then transported to traders, where it is graded into categories based on ripeness, stem quality, and overall condition.
Payment and traceability
Farmers are paid based on a fluctuating price chart set by the MPOB, with payment linked to the quality of the fruit harvested. Traceability is a key part of the process, with receipts documenting the farmer’s name, plantation location, fruit weight, and grading category, ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Lifecycle and sustainability
Palm trees are productive for up to 25 years before their quality begins to diminish. When they reach the end of their productive lifespan, the trees are repurposed in sustainable ways. The ferns that grow around the trees are used as compost or animal feed, while the trunk is often converted into biomass for energy generation. The fruit’s kernel and pulp are also fully utilised to extract oil, ensuring minimal waste.
Sustainable palm oil is not only about the end product but also the practices that support environmental stewardship, economic viability, and community well-being. From seedling purchase to the use of trees after harvesting, sustainable practices ensure a positive impact on both the planet and the people who rely on palm oil for their livelihoods.
By understanding the journey of palm oil, consumers can make more informed choices and support farming practices that contribute to a healthier, more sustainable world.