They say (which is different to actually doing) that they will commit to map its suppliers’ entire landbank by the end of 2019.

Wilmar is going to use satellite monitoring to check for deforestation.   If they catch companies cutting virgin forest for plantations, those companies will immediately be suspended from doing business with Wilmar.

Greenpeace say they will be watching this development carefully and its activists have been busy in the last few months.  If Wilmar does what it says, it means that by 2019 it will be almost impossible for its suppliers to get away with forest destruction.

The problem with palm oil is that it’s cheap – so used in a major way in cosmetics, toiletries and food products.

Huge areas of rainforest have been destroyed to allow for palm oil plantations.

Wildlife species have been badly hit, most notably the orangutan. 

Wilmar’s decision comes about because people are showing a backlash against companies that use unsustainable and unverified palm oil. 

We must all watch this development and see what Wilmar International actually does.   As I said at the start, making these plans is different to actually carrying them out and DOING them.  But it’s a start and could be a useful benchmark with which to see what progress they make by the end of 2019.

Make a Difference NOW to Rainforest Conservation

An Indonesian oil palm plantation is up for sale and the Sumatran Orangutan Society (SOS) has a golden opportunity to buy this land and restore the lush forest that once stood there.  They need to raise £870,000 by February 2019 to do this and help save the habitat for orangutans.  As I write, over £512,000 has been donated already.   Find out more and donate here.

Lots of people are giving £5 or £10 or whatever they can to this appeal.   What matters is that lots of us take action and give something to make a difference and get this land to protect it for wildlife.  I donated for my aunt’s birthday present as she adores orangutans.  Every £1 or $1 helps.   Donate here