Avon has boosted its environmental credentials by renewing its Palm Oil Promise, committing to greater traceability and responsible sourcing with the goal of only using palm oil that has not contributed to deforestation in the regions where it is grown.

The promise was praised by the Union of Concerned Scientists for its wide-reaching consequences and described as having ‘the potential to be one of the strongest palm oil commitments in the personal care sector to date’.

“With its promise today, Avon committed to buying palm oil that protects tropical forests, our climate and endangered species’ habitat,” said Lael Goodman, an Analyst with UCS’ Tropical Forest & Climate Initiative.

“The company’s actions will increase the demand for deforestation-free palm oil. By requiring that any palm oil supplier from which Avon sources meets these requirements, these companies will in turn be required to ensure their palm oil operations across the board—will be free of deforestation and peatland destruction.

“Once Avon announces a timeline for this promise, consumers will be much closer to being able to lather on their Avon, Anew, Skin So Soft and Mark products with the knowledge that the palm oil in these products doesn’t contribute to deforestation and climate change.”