Palm Oil: Biofuel of the Future?

Palm oil, derived from palm fruit, is widely used in food, cosmetics, and increasingly in biodiesel. Demand is expected to double by 2030 and triple by 2050. Despite being renewable and low-emission, its production is environmentally damaging, leading to deforestation and high carbon emissions, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia. This destruction threatens ecosystems, notably reducing the orangutan population. Efforts to curb deforestation and ensure sustainable palm oil production have largely failed. The future of palm oil as a biodiesel is debated due to its environmental impact.

What percentage of palm oil is currently used in food products?

• 30%

• 70%

• 50%

• 90%

Which two countries produce over 90% of the world's palm oil?

• Indonesia and Malaysia

• Brazil and Argentina

• Thailand and Vietnam

• India and China

What is the predicted impact on Indonesia's rainforests within 15 years?

• All will be preserved

• 98% will be gone

• 75% will be gone

• 50% will be gone

What is a major challenge in making palm oil biodiesel sustainable?

• Limited government support

• High production costs

• Difficulty in tracing the source

• Lack of demand

What is the government's plan regarding biofuel usage by 2020?

• Ban biofuels

• Remain the same

• Increase by 10%

• Decrease by 10%