Palm oil position statement – May 2026

East Riding of Yorkshire Council

East Riding of Yorkshire Council delivers a comprehensive range of services to approximately 343,201 residents across 930 square miles. As one of the area’s largest employers and consumers of goods and services, the council recognises that its operations and service delivery have environmental impacts locally and globally.

The council remains committed to effectively managing its environmental footprint, encouraging and supporting others to do the same, and continuously improving the environment for employees, residents, businesses, and visitors. This commitment is reflected in the council’s Business Plan through the corporate priority 'Valuing the Environment'.

The council’s position on the use of palm oil

Palm oil production plays an important role in developing economies and remains one of the most efficient vegetable oil crops. The Council does not seek to eliminate palm oil use entirely, as doing so could increase demand for alternative oils that may carry their own environmental impacts.

Instead, East Riding of Yorkshire Council continues to focus on transitioning from non-sustainable palm oil to Certified Sustainable Palm Oil (CSPO).

The council supports the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), which sets and continuously strengthens global standards for sustainable production, traceability, and responsible supply chains.

  • Awareness of sustainable palm oil has increased across procurement, catering, and wider service areas.

The council recognises that maintaining sustainable supply chains requires continuous monitoring, supplier collaboration, and periodic review.

Current commitments (2026 onwards)

East Riding of Yorkshire Council will:

  • continue to identify and remove non-sustainable palm oil from its supply chain, replacing it with Certified Sustainable Palm Oil products wherever feasible.
  • work proactively with suppliers and contractors to ensure compliance with sustainable sourcing standards.
  • review supplier performance regularly and take action where commitments to sustainable palm oil are not met.
  • prioritise suppliers demonstrating strong environmental credentials, including full traceability of palm oil sources.
  • raise awareness of palm oil sustainability among staff, partners, and the public through education and communication.
  • share good practice with other organisations to support wider industry change.
  • maintain an ongoing review process to ensure continuous improvement in sustainable procurement and usage.

Review date

Next review: May 2028

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