The rainforest is the backbone of our world — and the source of many everyday products. Learn how to make good choices when shopping for rainforest-sourced products.
Do you drink soy milk, eat steak, or use shampoo? There’s a high chance that it came straight from the rainforest. Though the rainforest is undeniably an excellent source for essential products; many of them contribute to deforestation and pollution. Choosing sustainable CARING FOR THE CANOPY — and if you want to go beyond donating, there’s simple sustainable choices you can make in your daily life to help save the RAINFOREST.
Common ingredients sourced from the rainforest
You don't have to change all your habits — you just need to be mindful of the source of common rainforest ingredients. Some materials are naturally sustainable, while others are not. Here’s a sustainability snapshot for several common rainforest products:
- Brazil nuts: aside from being a protein and nutrient-rich snack, the oil from Brazil nuts is also commonly found in shampoos and moisturizers. The Brazil nut is considered sustainable and does not contribute to deforestation.
- Coconut oil: used as both a cosmetic and food ingredient, coconut oil has been the center of sustainability debates.
- Vanilla seeds: found in extracts, baked goods, and perfume. Vanilla can be produced sustainably without deforestation due to the plant's reliance on the canopies for shade.
- Bananas: the most popular fruit in the world is derived from the rainforest — but they require intense pesticides in order to grow. It’s recommended to look for fair trade or organic bananas.
- Palm Oil: this oil is used in a wide variety of baked goods, cosmetics, and more. Though its versatility makes it a popular product, the production of palm oil has devastating consequences for the rainforest.
A rainforest stamp of approval
You don't have to research for hours to figure out if a food or product is rainforest-friendly. Global organizations have created stamps of approval for companies that grow sustainably in the rainforest. Here are some labels to look for:
- Fair Trade Certified
- Certified B Corporations
- Rainforest Alliance Approved
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
Even small changes can make a difference for the rainforest — and our future.
___
Protect RAINFORESTS to protect the planet. Donate to VAKOVAKO.
