Efeca conducted a comprehensive comparison of the Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil Standard (ISPO), Malaysian Palm Oil Standard (MSPO), and Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Standard in March, commissioned by the Central Point of Expertise on Timber (CPET) helping organisations to source sustainable palm oil. These standards, which have been developed to ensure sustainability in palm oil cultivation and supply chains, vary in their environmental and social criteria, as well as compliance procedures.
The ISPO, established to regulate palm oil production in Indonesia, places significant emphasis on adherence to Indonesian laws and regulations. It mandates sustainable practices that include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, managing peatlands responsibly, and promoting the welfare of local communities. In contrast, the MSPO focuses on Malaysian-specific environmental regulations and sustainability practices. It promotes sustainable resource management, biodiversity conservation, and compliance with national laws to ensure ethical production practices.
The RSPO, an internationally recognised standard, sets forth comprehensive guidelines that transcend national boundaries. It addresses global environmental concerns such as biodiversity conservation, reducing carbon footprints, and protecting high conservation value areas. Socially, the RSPO advocates for fair labour practices, community engagement, and adherence to human rights principles outlined in international conventions.
For a detailed exploration of how these standards compare and their implications for sustainable palm oil sourcing, access the full report here: Comparison of Palm Oil Standards