Largest Convening of North American Sustainable Palm Oil Network Paves the Way for 2019 Priorities

On December 13, 2018, the North American Sustainable Palm Oil Network (NASPON) held an all-day meeting in Plano, Texas (USA) to discuss the adoption of the Principles and Criteria (P&C) 2018 as it relates to the North American market. This meeting was monumental for NASPON, as it marked the largest convening of NASPON members.

NASPON was formed in late 2017 after the 15th Annual Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) Roundtable Meeting (RT) in Bali, Indonesia. In an effort to accelerate collaboration in the market, NASPON has worked to educate, build momentum for the uptake of Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO) and assist North American companies in delivering on their sustainable sourcing commitments.

3 new workstreams to boost CSPO traction in North America

In addition to welcoming new members like Clorox to the 33 members of NASPON, the meeting attendees established 3 working groups to further their ability to impact sustainable palm oil uptake in North America. The 3 work streams will focus on CSPO/Certified Sustainable Palm Kernel Oil (CSPKO) derivatives supply and uptake, segregated material supply and uptake, and the development of education materials for suppliers and stakeholders.

As a result of the meeting, in 2019 NASPON will work to socialize the P&C 2018, increase participation in RSPO working groups/standing committees, and launch the inaugural working group meetings to formalize their goals and terms of reference, while continuing to engage the North American market to increase uptake of sustainable palm oil.