© t4nkyong/Adobe Stock Commissioned by WWF Germany and authored by Steffen Noleppa and Matti Cartsburg of HFFA Research, this study investigates the environmental implications of palm oil consumption in Germany and evaluates the consequences of substituting palm oil with other vegetable oils.
Palm oil demand is growing rapidly, driven by its widespread use in food, cosmetics, and bioenergy. While highly efficient in terms of yield, palm oil production is often linked to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions, prompting calls for boycotts. However, the ecological consequences of replacing palm oil with alternative crops are not fully understood.
The study tracks 98% of German palm oil consumption across sectors and evaluates which oils could technically replace palm oil. It then compares land use, emissions, and biodiversity impacts associated with palm oil and its potential substitutes. Though focused on Germany, the findings have broader applicability to global policy and sustainability debates.
Replacing palm oil with other tropical oils (e.g., coconut or soy) would likely worsen environmental outcomes due to even higher land and resource requirements.
Substituting with domestically produced oils (e.g., rapeseed or sunflower) may reduce biodiversity pressure in tropical regions but still leads to higher land use and CO₂ emissions.
Blanket boycotts are counterproductive; a nuanced, context-specific approach is needed.
Companies should substitute with local oils where feasible and prioritize certified, sustainably produced palm oil for imports.
Effective action requires coordinated efforts from industry, consumers, and policymakers, including stronger sustainability standards and supply chain transparency.
