Palm oil industry: Balancing economic benefits with environmental sustainability in Sri Lanka

Institute of Policy Studies of Sri Lanka (IPS) Research Fellow Dr. Erandathie Pathiraja provides valuable insights into the recently published IPS study ‘Palm Oil Industry in Sri Lanka: An Economic Analysis’. The study authored by Dr. Pathiraja, Ruwan Samaraweera, Hiruni Fernando and Jaan Bogodage, offers a comprehensive analysis of the economic and environmental impacts of the palm oil industry in Sri Lanka. In the following Q&A session, Dr. Pathiraja shares her perspectives on the reasons behind the ban on oil palm cultivation, potential impact on the economy and environment, industry’s economic contributions, environmental concerns and their mitigation, health issues related to edible oil consumption and alternative solutions to meet the local edible oil demand. In light of the recent ban on oil palm cultivation in Sri Lanka, there has been much debate surrounding the decision. Could you share your insights on the reasons behind the ban and its potential impact on the economy ...