Evaluation of environmental impact of small-scale oil palm cultivation in Ghana: A life cycle assessment of Juaben Municipal District

Abstract Palm oil has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its various uses in the food, cosmetics, and biofuel industries, resulting in a high global demand. In the 2021/22 marketing year, palm oil production reached approximately 73.8 million metric tons, up from 73 million in 2020/21. Palm oil yields more per area than other oil crops such as sunflower, soybean, and rapeseed. It is also economically feasible to grow in areas where other crops typically do not thrive, providing a source of income for many people. Palm oil cultivation has also contributed to economic growth, rural community development, and poverty reduction in disadvantaged regions, especially in Indonesia, Ghana, and Malaysia. The study’s findings indicate that Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFB) production significantly contributes to the global warming index. The study also shows that the eutrophication effect resulting from fertiliser usage was lower, with a total value of 1.8 kg PO4 equivalent, which is lower than the values reported in previous studies. This is attributed to the common usage of fertilisers in the study area due to financial constraints. An in-depth analysis of small-scale farmers’ local vegetable oil production was also studied, focusing on the challenges encountered during oil palm cultivation and processing.