Author Archives: Palm Oil Detectives

Andean Mountain Cat Leopardus jacobita

Known affectionately as ‘huana titi’ or ‘the cat from dry places’ by locals, the Andean mountain cat captivates with their mystery and elegance. This cat boasts an exceptional sense of hearing, attributed to their well-developed eardrums. These allow them to detect prey with precision. They skillfully use their long tail, which makes up 70% of their body length, for balance during the swift and unpredictable chases of their prey.

Unlike their larger feline counterparts, Andean mountain cats cannot roar due to the close and hardened structure of the bones in their throats, opting instead for mewls, growls, and screams. Remarkably, they can purr continuously, breathing in and out, showcasing a unique aspect of their vocal repertoire. Together we can protect these magnificent cats and their precious rainforest world. Use your wallet as a weapon and #BoycottMeat, #BoycottPalmOil, and #Boycott4Wildlife every time you shop!

Ecosystems Sell Dirt Cheap for Palm Oil Filled Snickers and KitKat

A recent report highlighted by Mongabay uncovers that deforestation-linked palm oil may still be in popular snacks like Snickers and Kit Kat, despite pledges from brands like Mars, Nestlé, and Mondelēz to use only deforestation-free palm oil. The issue lies in the palm oil-based animal feed used for dairy production, which these companies are not being transparent about. Thirteen out of the fourteen largest U.S. dairy processors, including Mars, Nestlé, and Mondelēz, fail to disclose how much palm oil-based animal feed is in their supply chains, raising concerns over hidden deforestation. If you are wanting to be kind to farmed and wild animals and ecosystems, make sure that you be #vegan #BoycottPalmOil #BoycottDairy #Boycott4Wildlife

How does Indonesia’s palm oil industry fuel the climate crisis?

Booming global demand for the vegetable oil is spurring deforestation in Indonesia. Indonesia accounts for more than half of the global palm oil supply, the world’s most widely used vegetable oil that is found in everything from food to cosmetics to fuel.

But environmentalists fear surging demand for the product may drive mass deforestation in Indonesia, home to the world’s third-largest tropical rainforest, and exacerbate the global climate crisis.

Irrawaddy Dolphin Orcaella brevirostris

Intelligent and social Irrawaddy dolphins, also known as the Mahakam River dolphins or Ayeyarwady river #dolphins have endearing faces. Only 90 to 300 are estimated to be left living in the wild. Their rounded and expressive looking noses liken them to a baby beluga whale or the Snubfin dolphin of Australia. These shy #cetaceans are found in coastal and freshwater habitats across #SoutheastAsia, they live in small groups. Tragically, Irrawaddy dolphins face many human threats, from entanglement in fishing gear to dam construction. Palm oil deforestation, and #pesticide run-off in rivers is another major threat to their survival.

Protecting the Irrawaddy dolphin is paramount. As a keystone species, they maintain biodiversity in their fragile home. These beautiful animals are classified as endangered on IUCN Red list but are critically endangered in some ecosystems. Fight for their survival when you boycott palm oil and go vegan. Support the Boycott4Wildlife movement by using the hashtags #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife on social media!

Protect Nature to Avoid Future Pandemics

Research from University of Queensland and published in The Lancet: Planetary Health finds that the COVID-19 pandemic is linked to the decline of ecosystems and biodiversity, creating a cycle that could lead to more pandemics. The pandemic, caused by a virus jumping from animals to humans, has worsened deforestation, increasing human-wildlife contact and the risk of future disease outbreaks. The study emphasizes the need for a One Health approach, combining public health, conservation efforts and involving indigenous custodianship of land and indigenous traditional knowledge to prevent outbreaks by protecting ecosystems. We must safeguard biodiversity to prevent more pandemics. #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Sambar deer Rusa unicolor

The majestic Sambar deer, cloaked in hues ranging from light brown to dark gray, are distinguished by their rugged antlers and uniquely long tails. Adorned with a coat of coarse hair and marked by a distinctive, blood-red glandular spot on their throats, these deer embody the beauty of the wild. Their adaptability is evident in their alert behavior, silent movements, and the gradual development of their unique spots. Perfectly designed for grazing, these deer use their antlers and feet deftly in defense, relying on their acute senses of hearing and smell to evade predators. To protect these splendid deer and their habitats from the impacts of deforestation and agricultural expansion, especially for palm oil, join the movement: #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife to aid in their survival.

African Golden Cat Caracal aurata

The African golden cat’s striking coat varies from radiant red to elegant gray. They are a symbol of wild grace in the African jungle. This feline enchants a cacophony of sounds, from gentle meows to assertive growls. They are classified as Vulnerable and their population is expected to reduce by 30% as a direct result of palm oil deforestation in their forest home (IUCN Red List). Fight to protect these magnificent animals and their home every day! #BoycottPalmOil and #Boycott4Wildlife in the supermarket!

Echoes of the Ancients: The Wisdom and Power of Elephants

World Elephant Day, celebrated on August 12th, honours the gentle and nurturing giants of Asia and Africa, who are revered for their deep spiritual wisdom, gentle strength, and nurturing natures. Over the past decade, their numbers have plummeted by 62% due to habitat encroachment for palm oil deforestation, other agriculture, infrastructure expansion, mining and the cruel #poaching for ivory. Without radical intervention, these magnificent beings could be near #extinction by the 2060s. Yet, do not despair because hope endures in the form of activism. Explore the extraordinary resilience and intelligence of pachyderms, and discover how you can help safeguard their future with consumer boycotts and supporting organisations fighting wildlife crime. #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife

“Sustainable” Palm Oil No Different in Land Conflicts

Research reveals no significant difference between RSPO-certified “sustainable” palm oil and non-certified palm in Indonesian land conflicts. Boycott palm oil!

Philippine tarsier Carlito syrichta

The Philippine tarsier, Carlito syrichta, epitomises nocturnal secrecy, leading a mostly concealed life in the dense recesses of impenetrable bushes and forests. They boast large and mesmerising eyes that aid in night vision, these tiny creatures have a distinct appearance. Measuring around 8 to 16 cm, their fur is soft and comes in various shades, often blending with their natural surroundings. Known for their incredible leaping abilities, tarsiers are agile hunters, relying on their keen sense of hearing to locate prey. Despite their small size, they play a vital role in maintaining the ecological balance in their habitat. They are now vulnerable due to multiple human-related threats including palm oil deforestation and the pet trade. Help them to survive #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Unmasking Socfin’s Destructive Palm Oil Empire in Africa

An investigation reveals Socfin’s exploitation of rubber and palm oil in West Africa, leading to deforestation, landgrabbing, and shocking human rights abuses.

The world’s smallest ‘fanged’ frog found in Indonesia

Researchers have identified a species of frog Limnonectes phyllofolia completely new to science. The tiny Indonesian amphibian is in the possession of little fangs. Researchers think that their fangs may be used to fend off would-be competitors for mating or territory. This species adopts a unique approach by laying their eggs on tree leaves. Adding to their distinct behavior, the male frogs play an active role in guarding and nurturing the nests. This discovery not only enriches our understanding of amphibian biodiversity but also highlights why it is absolutely crucial that we protect their home – rainforests in Indonesia. Help them every time you shop and #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Snack giant PepsiCo allegedly sourced “sustainable” palm oil from razed Indigenous land in Peru

PepsiCo’s supply chain is linked to environmental and human rights violations in Peru, involving Amazon deforestation and Indigenous land invasion. For three years, palm oil from deforested Shipibo-Konibo territory has been used in products like Gatorade and Cheetos. PepsiCo sources oil from Ocho Sur, a company notorious for environmental crimes and forest loss. The palm oil industry in Peru, which doubled production in a decade, is responsible for significant illegal deforestation, violent indigenous landgrabbing, animal extinction and human rights abuses. Take action every time you shop and #Boycottpalmoil for wildlife and Indigenous people.

Wallace’s Flying Frog Rhacophorus nigropalmatus

The elusive and visually stunning Wallace’s Flying #Frog are known for their mysterious nature and their ability to take flight and glide through the air like dancers. They reveal themselves only during breeding aggregations when they descend from the trees.

Recent surveys in various regions, including the Matang Range in #Sarawak, #Malaysia, and the Endau-Rompin in West Malaysia, have documented the presence of this species. However, their overall population faces a concerning decline due to the ongoing loss of habitat for #palmoil #deforestation. Urgent conservation efforts are critical to reverse this trend and to ensure the survival of this intriguing species in their natural environment. Help this frog to survive every time you shop, make sure that you #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife in the supermarket!

Paraquat: Banned in EU, Destroying Lives of Palm Oil Workers in Indonesia

The dangerous pesticide Paraquat is banned in the EU however continues to destroy the lives of palm oil plantation workers in Indonesia. Read this story below originally published in Geographic Magazine and learn how to take action to resist the human rights abuses and ecocide below. #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Bush Dog Speothos venaticus

The enigmatic Bush dog was once believed to be extinct, however they have now emerged from the shadows. These elusive canids show remarkable teamwork and intelligence with strategic hunting tactics. They divide into land and water based groups when pursuing elusive prey like the paca. Despite their shy nature, Bush dogs break their silence with peculiar calls, a vocal repertoire that serves as a means of communication and warning within the pack. Adorned in reddish hues, they bear the nickname ‘zorro,’ reminiscent of a fox, while their distinctive vinegar-like scent has earned them the moniker ‘vinegar dog’.

They are classified as Near Threatened due to their range disappearing for cattle grazing, palm oil, soy, eucalytpus and other monoculture crops. Not enough is known yet about their lives to assess the damage. Fight for them every time you shop and be #vegan #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife.

Encountering the World’s Most Endangered Kangaroo: The Wondiwoi Tree Kangaroo

Encounter the Wondiwoi tree-kangaroo. Rediscovered in 2018, these rare marsupials from West Papua are a symbol of hope amidst threats from palm oil, hunting

Dusky Pademelon Thylogale brunii

Dusky Pademelons are small marsupials with large ears, strong hind legs and a short, thick tail. They navigate the dense and mountainous forests of New Guinea with natural agility. Solitary by nature, these fascinating creatures disperse seeds as they roam through the forests contributing to the maintenance of a vibrant ecosystem. They are now vulnerable due to the threat of hunting and deforestation for mining, palm oil and timber throughout their range. Help them to survive every time you shop and #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Palm Oil Greenwashing Poised to Destroy Protected Biosphere in Chiapas, Mexico

Situated on Mexico’s lush and biodiverse Pacific coast is La Encrucijada Biosphere Reserve – One of Mexico’s most spectacular natural treasures. Now the government and palm oil businesses are trying to sieze vast areas of land and legalise a huge area of illegally-cultivated oil palm, by reducing the size of this internationally significant environmental reserve. They are also using RSPO certification of a palm oil plantation close to the reserve in order to legitimise the expansion of palm oil in the area.

Did you know that gold kills indigenous people and rare animals?

Gold mining kills indigenous peoples throughout the world like the Yanomami people of Brazil and Papuans in West Papua. The bloody, violent and greedy landgrabbing that goes on for gold forces indigenous women and children into sex slavery! Mercury poisons the water, which kills people and puts 1000’s of species closer to extinction. To help indigenous peoples to fight for their ancestral lands and help endangered animals you should #BoycottGold #BoycottGold4Yanomami

Lion-tailed Macaque Macaca silenus

Lion-tailed macaques hold the title of one of the smallest macaque species in the world and sport a majestic lion-esque mane of hair. They exclusively call the Western Ghats in India their home. This area has been decimated in recent years for palm oil. Prior to palm oil’s arrival in the Western Ghats, populations of Lion-tailed macaques were already fragmented. Now these beautiful small macaques are in serious trouble. Read on to discover how you can boycott palm oil every time you shop #Boycottpalmoil #Boycott4Wildlife

Extinction On Our Plates

The contents of your fridge and dining table directly impacts the future of rare rainforest and ocean animals. That’s because industrial agriculture and aquaculture for commodities like meat, dairy, fish and palm oil is driving animals in the most biodiverse ecosystems on the planet closer towards extinction.

However, reducing the biodiversity footprint of global food consumption requires more than just consumer intervention. It requires immediate and widespread action from government policy-makers and law-makers as well, writes Ecologist Dr Quentin Read of North Carolina State University for 360info

Marsh Deer Blastocerus dichotomus

The Marsh deer are South America’s largest deer species, uniquely adapted to wetland life with their web-like hooves and preference for aquatic plants. They are prey animals for jaguars and pumas.

These majestic creatures, once widespread, are now confined to isolated pockets. Their main threat is habitat loss and fragmentation due to palm oil, soy and meat deforestation along with hydroelectric dams and gold mining.

Even as researchers strive to understand their complex and obscure social and mating behaviours, time is running out for these unique creatures. Use your wallet as a weapon and protect the Marsh deer #BoycottPalmOil #BoycottGold4Yanomami #Boycott4Wildlife.

Victoria crowned pigeon Victoria goura

Meet the Victoria crowned pigeon, the world’s largest pigeon species with royal roots and some unique quirks. Not only are they named after Queen Victoria, but they’re also close relatives to the extinct dodo. These lovebirds mate for life and share parenting duties in the most adorable ways—from dancing displays to feeding their chicks a special ‘crop milk.’ Despite their fascinating traits and tight-knit families, these majestic birds face dire threats. Their forest homes are disappearing due to palm oil and timber deforestation, and they’re being hunted. Help keep their love story alive: #BoycottPalmOil and support #Boycott4Wildlife to protect these incredible creatures.

Stop Gambling Our Future for Meat Deforestation

Ethicist Peter Singer warn our consumption of meat and dairy risks the planet’s future driving climate change, food security and animal extinction. Be vegan!

African Forest Elephants Help Fight Climate Change

Discover the awe-inspiring role of African forest elephants in the Congo Basin—nature’s master gardeners who literally shape the world around them! These gentle giants roam through muddy, mineral-rich paradises called baïs, fostering the growth of carbon-absorbing trees that make our planet healthier. By tending to these unique landscapes, they are the unsung heroes in the fight against climate change. Want to ensure these ecological architects keep doing their vital work? Join the movement to protect their habitat—say no to palm oil and adopt a vegan lifestyle! 🐘🌳#BoycottPalmOil #BeVegan #Boycott4Wildlife

Cutting Ultra-Processed Foods Could Save Lives

Recently, the CEO of breakfast giant Kelloggs Gary Pilnick promoted the benefits eating breakfast cereal for dinner as a way for people to cope with the increased cost of living and food:

“Cereal for dinner is something that is probably more on trend now, and we would expect [it] to continue as that consumer is under pressure,” Pilnick told CNBC about his stable of ultra-processed foods like Fruity Loops, Special K, and Frosted Flakes. He takes home a 4 million USD salary each year.

Many research studies released in the past decade have shown a clear link between the consumption of ultra-processed foods: [high sugar and high fat convenience foods, sugary breakfast cereals, processed baked goods and biscuits] with all of the biggest diseases that kill the most people: ischaemic heart disease, stroke, diabetes, obesity, dementia and many cancers.

Palm oil is a saturated fat that is present in many ultra-processed foods. Multiple studies including one by the World Health Organisation have linked palm oil consumption to increased mortality from heart disease and stroke. The UK’s National Health Service, Columbia Irving Medical Centre and others warn people against consuming palm oil due to its serious health risks.

PalmWatch: A Tool to Hold Palm Oil Greenwashers to Account

A groundbreaking open-source tool by the University of Chicago called PalmWatch, shines a light on the darkest parts of the palm oil industry.

PalmWatch is a free web-based tool that reveals links between major multinational brands using supposedly “sustainable” palm oil, and palm oil supply chain. This means that concerned consumers, animal rights advocates and human rights advocates can clearly see the toll of palm oil ecocide in their daily supermarket purchases.

Covering hundreds of thousands of kilometres, PalmWatch gives everyone open-source, free and unprecedented access to what “sustainable” palm oil really looks like.

More than simply a tool, PalmWatch is a clarion call to consumers to look carefully at their purchases. And where possible, to boycott brands causing the ecological crisis of tropical deforestation.

Help animals and indigenous peoples and #BoycottPalmOil #Boycott4Wildlife every time you shop!

Apes Enjoy Joking and Teasing Each Other

New research finds that it’s not only human babies who love to playfully tease each other. Researchers reasoned that since language is not required for this behaviour, similar kinds of playful teasing might be present in non-human animals such as chimpanzees, bonobos, gorillas and orangutans. Now cognitive biologists and primatologists have documented playful teasing in four species of great apes. Like joking behaviour in humans, ape teasing is provocative, persistent, and includes elements of surprise and play. Because all four great ape species used playful teasing, it is likely that the prerequisites for humour evolved in the human lineage at least 13 million years ago.

Palm Oil Increases Deaths of Baby Macaques

In Peninsular Malaysia, a new study published in Cell Biology by a team led by Dr Anna Holzner of German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig has found that infant mortality rates among wild southern pig-tailed macaques are alarmingly high due to frequent visits to oil palm plantations.

These plantations expose the infants to increased risks from predators, human encounters, and harmful agricultural chemicals, potentially affecting the development and survival of infant macaques. The study, conducted in collaboration of international researchers, observed that prolonged exposure to these plantations during infancy triples the likelihood of death.

The study suggests that pesticides used in agriculture could cross the placental barrier or be transmitted through breastmilk, impacting fetal development and health. This significant research underlines the urgent need for eco-friendly agricultural practices to protect wildlife and human communities near plantations. Take action and join the movement to #Boycottpalmoil and #Boycott4Wildlife every time you shop!