Sustainability in Every Inch of the Palm Oil Tree
Written by Paren Anak Nyawi, MSPO
Sustainability is more than just a buzzword in the ever-changing palm oil market; it is a responsibility and a commitment that all industry participants must uphold.
This initiative, led by the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO), has established strict guidelines to ensure that every part of the palm oil tree contributes to a sustainable future. The industry's approach has been redefined by the MSPO 2022 Standards, specifically MS2530:2022 and MS2751:2022.
1. Fruit: Beyond Crude Palm Oil (CPO)
Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) for CPO & Derivatives
Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) are harvested and processed responsibly, which is essential for sustainable palm oil production. MSPO 2022 focuses on the efficient extraction of Crude Palm Oil (CPO) from FFB while minimising environmental and social impact.
This is in line with industry's commitment in preventing pollution, optimising the use of natural resources in mitigating the impacts of global warming and respecting human rights, conducting operations with good governance, and upholding labour principles (of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights).
Biomass: A Comprehensive Approach
The sustainability narrative goes beyond CPO to encompass the entire palm tree. Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB), Palm Kernel Shell (PKS), Mesocarp Fibre (MF), Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME), and Palm Kernel Cake (PKC) are all part of the biomass cycle. MSPO 2022 encourages industry players to optimise the use of these byproducts, converting them into valuable resources. This not only boosts economic viability, but it additionally contributes to reducing waste and improving resource efficiency, which is in line with MSPO 2022's principles.
Biomass Palm Oil as Renewable Energy
The Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) chain of custody (CoC) of oil palm biomass (MS 2751:2022) was launched in March 2022. Biomass palm oil was identified to have many purposes and an infinite source of energy.
2. Trunk: Optimising Biomass with MS2751:2022
MSPO Chain of Custody for Oil Palm Biomass
MS2751:2022 establishes a comprehensive chain of custody for oil palm biomass. The Oil Palm Trunk (OPT), which is often overlooked, has the potential to optimise biomass. MSPO 2022 encourages industry players to harvest and use oil palm trunks for biomass in a responsible manner. This not only reduces waste but also ensures that all parts of the palm tree are used sustainably, in line with MSPO 2022 standards.
3. Oil Palm Leaves: Embracing Biomass with Oil Palm Fronds (OPF)
Utilising Oil Palm Fronds (OPF) for Biomass
The story of sustainability extends to the palm tree's leaves. Oil palm fronds (OPF) are valuable biomass resources that are often underutilised. MSPO 2022 encourages industry players to take innovative approaches to collecting OPF for biomass, promoting circular economy practices, and reducing environmental impact. This illustrates the industry's commitment to sustainable practices and responsible resource management.
Conclusion: Sustainability in Every Inch
Finally, the MSPO 2022 Standards, which include MS2530:2022 and MS2751:2022, foster sustainability in palm oil production. By addressing all aspects of cultivation - from the fruit, trunk, and leaves, the industry may advance towards a more sustainable and socially responsible future. Compliance does not only meets market demands, but it also demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental protection and ethical standards. Upholding these standards ensures legal compliance, supports local communities, and boosts Malaysia's palm oil sector globally.
