Rotterdam: the 3rd Sustainable Vegetable Oils Conference

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Rotterdam, 10 September 2024.

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Once again, the third edition of the Sustainable Vegetable Oil Conference (SVOC), supported by Competere, was a great success! Held in Rotterdam, it brought together a diverse group of stakeholders from across the globe to explore the vital role of vegetable oils in ensuring global food security. This year’s conference, co-organized by MVO and the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries, aimed to transcend traditional trade shows and scientific gatherings by focusing on actionable solutions to today’s pressing challenges. 

The conference highlighted a crucial lesson: all vegetable oils are indispensable for securing food and energy resources. However, the discrimination against certain oils, particularly palm oil in Europe, remains a concerning issue. The prevalence of “palm oil free” labels in supermarkets not only undermines producers but also affects those struggling with food scarcity.

We explored the challenges of increasing productivity amid a changing climate, aging agricultural infrastructure, and the need for greater investment and technological advancement. The cocoa industry stands as a stark example of these challenges. Additionally, we examined the complexities of geopolitical dynamics, distribution capabilities, and the ever-growing demand driven by a rising global population. 

A key theme in our discussions was the importance of science-based and market-driven policies over ideological approaches. We reaffirmed the essential role that all oils play in food and energy security and celebrated the efforts of producing countries and companies to improve sustainability and product quality. 

We also touched on the evolving concept of sustainability, noting a shift in the U.S. from traditional models to a focus on resilience — a concept that differs markedly from European approaches. The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) exemplifies this divergence, and the absence of EU Commission representatives to address these global challenges was noticeable.

Our contribution 

During the closing remarks, Pietro Paganini reflected on the journey we’ve undertaken since our first meeting in Bali, which initially focused on palm oil due to its significant global footprint. Today, our scope has broadened to include a diverse array of vegetable oils and producing countries, fostering richer dialogue and deeper understanding. As we prepare for the next edition of SVOC, we are ready to engage more directly with the EUDR, addressing and overcoming these challenges. Our mission is clear: to ensure the continuity and growth of the dialogue around sustainable vegetable oils.

Speakers’ presentation 

To download the slides of the speakers click here! 

Visit the event official website