Study: Coconut Oil Production More Harmful than Palm Oil Production

A recent study found that contrary to popular belief, the production of coconut oil is more damaging to the environment than palm oil production. Scientists from the University of Exeter analyzed previous studies on the possible environmental effects of vegetable oil production. They found that while palm oil only affects 3.8 threatened species for every million liters produced, coconut oil affects 20 threatened species per million liters. The researchers said that the production of coconut oil has already caused several species to disappear. These species include the Marianne white-eye bird and the Ontong Java flying fox. The scientists were surprised by the study’s findings because many Western consumers consider coconut oil to be environmentally friendly. Since consumers lack knowledge about the environmental impact of the products they buy, it is difficult for them to make sound spending choices. According to the researchers, consumers rely on information they get from the media to decide which products to buy. However, the media tends to be biased in reporting, so the scientists advise consumers to consider different perspectives when deciding what to buy. Despite the study’s findings, the researchers clarified that it was not their intention to put coconut oil in a bad light. Instead, they want to emphasize that all agricultural commodities can negatively affect the environment. They added that for consumers to make informed purchasing decisions, reliable information, such as their current findings, should be provided.