Biofuels: The Impact of Oil Palm on Forests and Climate

Background

This publication summarizes the proceedings of a 2009 conference held Singapore titled "Biofuels: The Impact of Oil Palm on Forests and Climate". With the emergence of palm oil industry, particularly in Asia, there has been a strong debate concerning the ability of this and other biofuels to reduce greenhouse gases but also its contribution to large-scale land conversion. This conference aimed to bring together experts from various fields to discuss potential solutions or alternatives to the industry. The report summarizes the opening remarks of the conference along with four panels, each of which were based on a specific question.  

Conclusions & Takeaways

The report highlights how the conference was successful at bringing together scientists, industry representatives, social and environmental activists, policy makers, and alternative market entrepreneurs to share their perspectives on a series of key questions regarding the relationship between oil palm, forests, and climate. The conference concluded that biofuels, like palm oil, must meet environmental and sustainability criteria, which can be reinforced through certificate programs and codified and noncodified standards.