RSPO Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy on Fire Use
The policy update aims to curb forest burning and related air quality risks for populations across Southeast Asia.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Organic Food
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The Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy against the use of fire in palm oil production amidst widespread forest burning in Indonesia. This commitment aims to uphold sustainability standards for global consumers who prioritize deforestation-free sourcing.
Why it matters
Recurring forest fires in Southeast Asia create significant public health risks due to regional haze, making strict adherence to zero-burning practices a critical component of environmental and health safety for the global supply chain.
Satellite surveillance data from the Nusantara Atlas recorded 1.9 million hectares of land burned in Indonesia from January through September 2026. While the RSPO mandates zero-burning, 90 percent of these incidents occurred outside of oil palm concessions, leaving the causes under investigation.
The players
Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO)
A global association headquartered in Zurich that sets standards for sustainable palm oil production and environmental oversight.
The details
The RSPO enforces its zero-burning mandate through real-time satellite surveillance systems, including FireWatch and Hotspot Hub, which detect and report thermal anomalies. When fire use is suspected, an independent grievance system triggers a formal investigation by the RSPO Complaints Panel. Sanctions for non-compliance are tiered, ranging from mandatory corrective actions to potential suspension or total termination of membership.
Timeline
From January to September 2026, 1.9 million hectares of land burned in Indonesia.
On October 30, 2026, the RSPO reiterated its policy at a Jakarta event.
The RSPO Annual Roundtable Conference is scheduled for November 3-4, 2026, in Jakarta.
Health Landscape
This enforcement effort operates within the framework of the RSPO 2024 Principles and Criteria Standards to mitigate the health-damaging effects of seasonal forest haze. It reflects a broader shift toward stringent real-time satellite monitoring in global agricultural sustainability.
Regional haze from agricultural fires can significantly worsen air quality for those living in or traveling to Southeast Asia, potentially impacting respiratory health. If you are concerned about sustainable sourcing, check for products carrying independent sustainability certifications when shopping.
The takeaway
Maintaining zero-burning policies is a vital strategy for preventing the severe regional air pollution associated with large-scale deforestation. Keep track of updates regarding international agricultural standards if you have concerns about environmental health and long-term air quality trends.
What happens next
The RSPO Annual Roundtable Conference (RT2026) is scheduled for November 3-4, 2026, in Jakarta.
Further reading
For more information on how production standards affect the products you purchase, visit Organic Food.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Manila times.
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