After watching this documentary, palm oil will taste bitter, sour – as consumers, we cannot enjoy our snacks and treats made with palm oil, now that we know the devastating effects its production wreaks.

--Rachel Dreyer, Head of Research Services for Special Collections,

Penn State University

Watch the Trailer

Colleges and Institutions

DVDs and Digital Site Licenses

DVD $295

DIGITAL SITE LICENSE $295

DVD + DIGITAL SITE LICENSE $495

DSLs are required to be hosted on a single password protected institutional server. DSLs are licensed for the life of format, and delivered digitally.

This license is for educational organizations (i.e. colleges, universities, secondary and high schools) and it allows you to:

Show the film in an auditorium and/or classrooms, and/or remote streaming for students, staff, faculty or members.
Make the film available to students, staff and faculty members for the purposes of research, education, and any other non-commercial use
Non-profits (501c3) and social service agencies fall under this license
Hold a private, non-theatrical screening that is not available to the public
Current mode of delivery: Digital or DVD
For DVD deliveries, please allow up to 6 weeks.
Note: May not be shared with people outside of your institution.

Watch Clips

Introduction to Emmanuela Shinta

What Are Peatlands

Indigenous Resistance to Palm Oil Plantations

How can In the Land of Palm Oil be integrated into public libraries’ collection development?

In the Land of Palm Oil can be integrated into public libraries’ collection development as part of a collection on environmental issues, human rights, and corporate accountability. This documentary offers valuable insights into the environmental destruction caused by palm oil plantations, making it a key resource for libraries focusing on sustainability, global food systems, and social justice. It would fit well in educational and advocacy-based collections, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the environmental and human costs of industrial agriculture.

What college courses and majors could benefit from using In the Land of Palm Oil?

In the Land of Palm Oil would benefit students in various fields, including:

Environmental Science: The documentary provides a firsthand look at the environmental devastation caused by palm oil plantations, making it ideal for courses on land use, deforestation, and sustainability.
Human Rights: The film explores the social and cultural consequences of corporate greed on local communities, making it relevant for courses focusing on global human rights and social justice.
International Relations and Development Studies: The documentary sheds light on the economic and political dynamics between corporations and governments, making it a valuable resource for students studying global trade, development, and corporate influence.
Journalism and Media Studies: Given the role of Emmanuel Shinta as a journalist and advocate, the film can be used in courses exploring investigative journalism, storytelling, and activism through media.

How could Parks and Recreation programs use In the Land of Palm Oil in their educational initiatives?

Parks and Recreation programs can use In the Land of Palm Oil to educate local communities about the environmental impact of palm oil production and the importance of sustainability. The film could be incorporated into environmental awareness events, sustainable living workshops, or educational programs focused on global environmental challenges. Post-screening discussions could focus on how individuals and communities can contribute to sustainable practices, as well as advocate for policy changes to protect vulnerable environments and populations.

How could In the Land of Palm Oil enhance special events on college campuses?

In the Land of Palm Oil would be an impactful addition to special events on college campuses, such as sustainability conferences, environmental awareness weeks, or global human rights forums. The documentary’s exploration of palm oil's devastating impact on the environment and local communities makes it a compelling centerpiece for discussions on corporate responsibility, environmental activism, and ethical consumerism. Panel discussions could follow the screening, with guest speakers such as environmental activists, experts in sustainable agriculture, or representatives from NGOs working to address the palm oil crisis.

Why is In the Land of Palm Oil a strong candidate for movie licensing?

In the Land of Palm Oil is a strong candidate for movie licensing because of its timely and urgent subject matter that addresses global environmental and human rights issues. Its focus on the destructive effects of palm oil plantations in Indonesia, combined with its powerful firsthand accounts, makes it highly relevant to audiences interested in sustainability, environmental justice, and social change. Licensing this documentary for educational and public screenings provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness, encourage action, and inspire further advocacy on these critical global issues. The film is particularly well-suited for use in classrooms, community screenings, and by organizations focused on environmental and human rights work.

Jason Karpf

The Video Librarian