Wildlife

Wild Orangutan Habitat Loss and Palm Oil

Orangutans are critically endangered as palm oil plantations destroy their rainforest habitat.

Key Facts

Bornean orangutan populations have declined by 50% in 60 years
Palm oil deforestation is the primary driver of habitat loss
Orphaned orangutans require years of rehabilitation before release
Orangutans are highly intelligent and form strong maternal bonds

Welfare Considerations

Orangutans displaced by deforestation face starvation, predation, and conflict with humans. Orphaned infants, separated when mothers are killed, experience profound grief and trauma requiring years of specialist rehabilitation. Adult orangutans driven from forests face death or live in fragmented habitat without sufficient resources.

What You Can Do

Choose products containing certified sustainable palm oil (RSPO)
Avoid products with unverified palm oil in the supply chain
Donate to orangutan rehabilitation and habitat protection
Advocate for stronger deforestation controls in palm oil supply chains