Aligning Terminology – From “Decent Living Wage” to “Living Wage”

Please be informed that the term “Decent Living Wage” has now been changed to “Living Wage”, as agreed upon by the Decent Living Wage Task Force. This name change has been made to ensure that the RSPO is aligned with the same terminology used by other sustainability standards and to achieve better alignment with global movements and other relevant actors working in sustainability initiatives, particularly those focused on wage/income levels that allow individuals or families to afford adequate shelter, food and other necessities and prevent them from falling into poverty. 

Please be assured that the revised terminology does not lower the RSPO Standards, the same definition and methodology will be maintained. There are no changes to RSPO Standards requirements or the definition and intent of living wage methodology as defined in the 2018 RSPO Principles and Criteria, which defines the term as “The remuneration received by a worker, for work performed on regular hours, in a particular place sufficient to afford a decent standard of living for the worker and her or his family.” 

If you would like to learn more about the RSPO supports a Living Wage, please visit our resources here.

If you have any questions, or would like to speak further about this with the RSPO, please contact the Human Rights and Social Standards (HRSS) team at [email protected].