Orkla adopts a zero deforestation policy
Orkla is committed to safeguarding rainforests and other natural forests with high conservation value, and is intensifying its efforts to ensure that the Group’s products do not contribute to deforestation.
“It is extremely important to preserve the remaining rainforests in order to prevent climate change, preserve unique ecosystems and protect the lives of people living in the forests. Orkla both can and will make a difference by ensuring that no deforestation takes place in our supply chains,” says Ellen Behrens, VP Corporate Responsibility.
The world’s forests are important for the global climate, are home to 80% of the planet’s animal and plant species, and provide a livelihood for millions of people. Preservation of forests, especially tropical rainforests, is therefore crucial to limiting global warning, preserving natural diversity and protecting the rights of indigenous peoples. The Earth’s forest resources are under heavy pressure and vast forest areas disappear every year.
Preventing deforestation is a key focus of Orkla’s efforts to ensure sustainable raw material production. Orkla aims to ensure that all important agricultural raw materials are produced in a sustainable manner without causing deforestation by 2020; in the case of palm oil the target date is as early as 2017. When purchasing packaging and other wood-based materials, Orkla companies will make sure that they do not come from tropical rainforests or other natural forests with high conservation value. When assessing which forests should be preserved, account must be taken of both biological diversity and carbon binding. Orkla also underscores the importance of respecting the rights of affected indigenous populations and local communities.
– Orkla will actively promote best practices for deforestation-free, sustainable production, and will implement measures adapted to the challenges and possibilities in each raw material chain. We require our suppliers to meet strict standards, and we monitor their adherence to these standards through dialogue and reporting requirements.
