The industry has been linked to mass animal die-offs, widespread razing of rainforests, displacement of indigenous communities, climate change and pollution. Now, according to a new report, the palm oil industry may also be guilty of exploiting some of its labor force, allegedly exposing workers to hazardous chemicals without adequate protection and turning a blind eye to the use of child labor on plantations.
Even more, these alleged violations may be occurring in the production of “sustainable” palm oil — a product supposedly certified as transparent, ethical and environmentally sound, and produced by employees who are “responsibly considered.” (read the full article here)