The Palm Pod

Join us at The Palm Pod for engaging discussions, expert insights, and industry updates on sustainable palm oil, guiding consumers and businesses to make better choices for the people, planet and prosperity. This podcast is brought to you by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) – A global partnership to make palm oil sustainable.

Episode 12
Roll for Credits: Understanding RSPO Independent Smallholder Credits with WWF and Nestlé

Did you know that when you buy products with the ‘RSPO Credits’ label, you can directly support smallholders through the purchase of RSPO Independent Smallholder (ISH) Credits?

These ISH Credits have benefited thousands of farmers globally—opening up market opportunities, encouraging sustainable practices, and strengthening rural livelihoods. But their impact goes further: ISH Credits help build resilient farming communities, foster environmental responsibility, and support smallholders on their path to long-term sustainability.

Hosted by In this episode, Kamal Seth, Global Palm Oil Director from World Wildlife Fund -WWF and Nadine Stueber, Global Responsible Sourcing Lead for Palm Oil from Nestlé joins us to explore why ISH Credits are one of the most effective tools for empowering smallholders and advancing sustainability in the palm oil sector.

Tune in to discover how your everyday choices can influence producers to make better choices and drive real change.

Episode 11
From Jungle to Standards: Taking Conservation Beyond the Forest

China is making significant strides toward sustainability, marked by its first shipment of RSPO Identity Preserved (IP) Certified Sustainable Palm Oil in 2024.

In this special episode of The Palm Pod, we commemorate 10 years of RSPO’s engagement in China: a decade of building partnerships, shaping policy conversations, and promoting Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO) in one of the world’s most influential markets.

Hosted by Fara Rom, our guest speaker, Chen Ying, a Sustainability Expert and Former Director of the Cereals and Oils Department at the China Chamber of Commerce for Import & Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CFNA), and a pioneering advocate for sustainable palm oil in China.

Together, we unpack China’s progress in CSPO adoption, the impact of collaboration between CFNA and RSPO, and how global trends—like ESG reporting and the EU Deforestation Regulation—are shaping China’s green transition.

Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges, breakthroughs, and future of CSPO in emerging markets.

Episode 10
Sustainable Palm Oil, Certified: What’s Behind the RSPO Label

Whether it says RSPO Certified, Mixed, or Credits — the RSPO label helps consumers identify products made with Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO).
These ecolabels aren’t just symbols; they represent a rigorous certification process that supports transparency, traceability, and sustainability in the palm oil supply chain.
Hosted by Fara Rom, this episode features Shazaley Abdullah, Head of Certification at RSPO, who breaks down what each label means, how certification works, and how you can make more informed choices at the checkout.
Want to decode the RSPO label on your favorite products? Tune in to learn what it really means for sustainability and your choices.

Episode 9
From Jungle to Standards: Taking Conservation Beyond the Forest

Behind every sustainability success story are individuals working tirelessly to uphold regulations and standards. And behind every conservation effort are those who spend countless hours studying wildlife, monitoring habitats, and facing the real dangers of conservation work—far beyond the discussions at COP meetings.
We often advocate for environmental protection, but how often do we hear from those doing the work? The ones turning words into action?
Hosted by Fara Rom, this episode features Akmal Razali, Manager of Standards and Sustainability (Forest) at RSPO — a passionate conservationist with no shortage of life-changing experiences. He shares what fuels his deep commitment to conservation and what it truly takes to ensure this critical work continues.

Episode 8
Digging Deeper: Why Regenerative Agriculture Matters – with Wild Asia

Regenerative agriculture may hold the key to solving some of the world’s most critical agricultural challenges. By focusing on soil and plant health, it’s not only good for the planet—it’s also been shown to improve yields for RSPO Certified smallholders who adopt nature-based practices.
Through its Wild Asia Group Scheme Bio (WAGS Bio) initiative, Wild Asia partners with independent smallholders to strengthen their sustainability journey and put regenerative principles into practice.
In this episode, hosted by Fara Rom, we’re joined by Reza Azmi and John Howes from Wild Asia to explore the transformative potential of regenerative oil palm cultivation—and how it could reshape the future of sustainable agriculture.
Tune in to discover how regenerative practices are reshaping oil palm cultivation for a healthier planet and more resilient farming communities.

Episode 7
Red Gold: The Cultural & Culinary Significance of Palm Oil in West Africa

Before the oil palm journeyed thousands of miles across the world, it was already a cherished treasure in the African region. For the people of Africa, palm oil is more than just a commodity—it is deeply woven into their history, culture, identity, and daily lives.
To explore this rich historical connection, our host, Fara Rom spoke with Ozoz Sokoh, food historian, and the author of Chop Chop: Cooking the Food of Nigeria, who shares captivating insights and anecdotes about the deep-rooted relationship between palm oil and the people of Africa.

Episode 6
Can Palm Oil & Biodiversity Conservation Coexist?

Ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and biodiversity hotspots, are often portrayed as being in crisis in anti-palm oil campaigns, fueling calls for boycotts as a way to protect them. But can palm oil cultivation and broader conservation efforts coexist in a way that aligns with sustainable development?
Joining our host, Fara Rom, is Ruth Silva from the High Conservation Value (HCV) Network, who shares insights into ongoing conservation efforts—and how the palm oil industry can help protect biodiversity while meeting global demand sustainably.

Episode 5
The Missing Link? Youth & Their Role in Palm Oil Sustainability

Youth aren’t just the future—they are the present. While discussions on sustainable palm oil continue to expand, there remains a noticeable gap in youth awareness,
Hosted by Fara Rom, this episode is Izzuddin Tuah, Youth Sustainable Palm Oil Advocate, who will share valuable insights on the crucial role of young people in shaping a more sustainable future—particularly in the palm oil industry.

Episode 4
Festive Footprints: Making Holidays Count

Get into the festive spirit with our special Holiday edition of The Palm Pod! This holiday season, we’re diving into the world of consumer choices and buying behaviour, exploring why it’s crucial to make informed decisions—especially during the most wonderful (and busiest) time of the year.
With host, Fara Rom, joining us is Yasmina Neustadtl, Senior Manager of Market Transformation Americas at RSPO, who shares insights on how our purchasing habits can support sustainable palm oil, reduce our environmental footprint, and make a global impact. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, planning your holiday menu, or just curious about the impact of your choices, this episode is for you!
Tune in to learn how your holiday cheer can align with sustainable living, and let’s make this season one of meaningful change. 🌱✨

Episode 3
The Mighty 40% (Smallholders)

Palm oil has often been at the center of environmental debates, sparking calls for boycotts—particularly in the Western world. But is boycotting really the answer?
Hosted by Fara Rom, this episode of The Palm Pod unpacks the complexities of palm oil production, tackling common myths, misinformation, and the ongoing debate around sustainable palm oil. From its environmental footprint to the millions of livelihoods it supports, we dive deep into the nuances of this global industry.
Joining us in this timely conversation is Dr. Inke Van Der Sluijs, Director of Market Transformation at the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO).