Oils that leave a mark: one point five percent of species under threat

Published on June 20, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

A recent study confirms that palm, coconut, and soybean crops have eliminated 1.5% of the planet's species, 80% more than in 1995. Per capita consumption of these oils, found in food, cosmetics, and animal feed, is the driving force behind this loss. For the average citizen, this means their shampoo or favorite cookie directly contributes to the extinction of flora and fauna. Reducing their use is a tangible step to protect global biodiversity.

tropical deforestation scene showing a bulldozer clearing rainforest for palm oil plantation, smoke rising from burning vegetation, a jaguar fleeing through remaining trees while a chainsaw cuts a massive tree trunk, soil erosion visible on exposed slopes, camera lens dirt effect, cinematic photorealistic style, dramatic sunset lighting through smoke haze, ultra-detailed foliage and animal fur textures, environmental documentary aesthetic

Technology to track the oil on your plate 🌍

Blockchain traceability and satellite image analysis now make it possible to identify the origin of vegetable oils in the supply chain. Tech companies are developing algorithms that cross-reference deforestation data with product labels. However, adoption is slow: only 12% of manufacturers use these tools. The challenge is not technical, but one of consumer pressure. As long as transparency is not demanded, soybean oil will continue to travel anonymously from razed fields to your breakfast.

Your moisturizer, an accomplice to ecocide 💧

It turns out that lotion promising radiant skin also leaves a trail of extinction. Palm oil is in everything: from margarine to lipstick. But don't worry, you can keep shining while 1.5% of species say goodbye. Of course, if you want to be a hero, swap the cream for olive oil. Just don't spread it on your toast. Ironies of life: what hydrates you, deserts the Amazon.