Rainforests, wildlife and palm oil

(copyright pictures: MPOGCF)

What is the connection between rainforests, wildlife, and palm oil?

The palm oil industry is a major player in Malaysia. Palm oil is a beautiful natural product in itself. But unfortunately, much rainforest has been lost to the development of palm oil plantations. As a result, rainforests and plantations now often lie side by side. Wild animals—such as orangutans—use the plantations as habitat, foraging grounds, or migration routes. This can lead to conflict between humans and wildlife. Through the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation, we are committed to researching wildlife found on plantations and in the adjacent rainforest.

We focus on three goals:

Research into wildlife to foster harmony between plantation owners and wildlife: By sharing research findings with plantation owners and workers, we increase their understanding of wildlife behavior. This helps ensure the preservation of remaining rainforest, maintains the plantation's revenue, and provides space for the animals inhabiting the area.

We aim to help small-scale farmers in the region coexist with wildlife by establishing a wildlife corridor; such a corridor—a natural passage for wild animals—reduces the need for them to venture onto farmers' land. This prevents conflicts, benefiting both the farmers and the wildlife.

In addition, we want to raise awareness in Europe regarding the consumption of products containing palm oil; high European demand drives the clearing of vast areas of rainforest to create palm oil plantations. We want to show people in Europe that they can positively influence nature conservation simply by choosing sustainably produced products.

Background
During the International Wildlife Congress in Norway, Miranda found herself seated at dinner next to Zalifah Ramli, one of the passionate senior project leaders at the Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF). Their shared enthusiasm and drive to protect wildlife marked the beginning of a wonderful collaboration.

You can help the animals on the plantations by:
- Making a donation to account NL50 INGB 0009 2637 84 (Stichting Cross Nature), stating 'Maleisië' as the payment reference.
- Signing up for our course (50% of the course fee goes towards nature conservation projects).
- Visiting the plantations where MPOGCF conducts its research (feel free to contact us to plan your visit).

Find out more at: https://www.mpogcf.org/