Coconut oil
CAS: 8001-31-8
INCI: Cocos Nucifera
Raw material: Coconut fruit
The eco-friendliness of coconut oil production can vary and depends on several factors.
Production Process: Coconut oil is naturally derived and made by pressing fresh or dried coconut meat. The dry process requires the meat to be extracted from the shell and dried. (1,2) The wet process uses coconut milk extracted from raw coconut. Cold extraction methods are generally more environmentally friendly as they require less energy and don’t require solvents and refining processes, such as deodorizing and bleaching. (1)
Sustainability: Coconuts are resilient when farmed sustainably, meaning there is not much need for pesticides, fungicides, or fertilizers. One tree can bear fruit for up to 60 years. Because coconuts must be plucked from trees, they are plucked by hand, and heavy machinery is typically not involved in harvesting. (3) Coconut oil is a renewable resource.
However, it’s important to note that while coconut oil production can be more eco-friendly than other oil types, it still has an environmental impact. (4,5,6)
For example, coconut plantations can lead to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. (5)
Also, the transportation of coconut oil from tropical regions where coconuts are grown to other parts of the world can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. (4,6)
In conclusion, while coconut oil has some eco-friendly aspects, its overall environmental impact depends on various factors, including farming practices, extraction, and transportation. Choosing coconut oil from brands prioritizing sustainable and ethical practices is always a good idea.
Coconut oil is a crop-based oil; therefore, it is considered a biodegradable fluid, like soybean, vegetable, rapeseed, and sunflower. - https://citizensustainable.com/coconut-oil-sustainable/#Is_Coconut_Oil_Biodegradable
1 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coconut_oil
2 - https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00449-021-02577-9
4 - How Environmentally Friendly Is Coconut Oil? (treehugger.com)
5 – The Environmental Impact of Coconut Oil Production: A Sustainability Perspective - Only Coconuts
6 - Is Coconut Oil Bad for the Environment? | SustainabilityNook