Soy has become a global commodity, fueling industries ranging from animal feed to biofuels and processed foods. While its versatility is undeniable, the widespread production of soy comes with significant environmental and social consequences that are often overlooked. Here’s a closer look at the harmful realities behind the soy industry.
Deforestation and Habitat Destruction
The demand for soy is a leading driver of deforestation, particularly in South America. The Amazon rainforest, often called the "lungs of the Earth," has been drastically impacted. Between 2001 and 2015, 8% of global deforestation was attributed to soy production, with Brazil and Argentina being the largest contributors. In Brazil alone, over 10,000 square miles of forest were cleared between 2006 and 2017 to make way for soy plantations, threatening the habitats of countless species, including jaguars and sloths.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Deforestation for soy production releases massive amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Soy cultivation in the Amazon is estimated to account for 200 million metric tons of CO2 emissions annually—equivalent to the yearly emissions of over 43 million cars. Additionally, the use of nitrogen fertilizers in soy farming contributes to nitrous oxide emissions, a greenhouse gas 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
Land Grabbing and Displacement
The expansion of soy farms often leads to land grabbing, where Indigenous communities and small farmers are forcibly removed from their ancestral lands. In Brazil, over 20,000 families in the Cerrado region have been displaced to accommodate soy plantations, creating social inequality and cultural erosion.
Pesticide Pollution
Soy farming is heavily dependent on chemical pesticides and herbicides, such as glyphosate, which has been linked to health risks like cancer and endocrine disruption. In Argentina, pesticide use in soy farming rose by 858% between 1996 and 2016, contaminating local water supplies and harming communities living near plantations.
Sustainable Alternatives to Soy for Shoppers and Candle Makers
For shoppers and candle entrepreneurs alike, exploring alternatives to soy candles can lead to more sustainable choices. Waxes such as coconut blends without soy or beeswax (though not vegan) are excellent options. Coconut-based waxes provide a clean, luxurious burn, while beeswax, prized for its natural air-purifying properties, is a timeless choice for eco-conscious candle makers.
At Mew Lang, we’ve embraced a coconut-apricot wax blend for its clean burn and renewable nature, ensuring a luxurious and sustainable option for candle lovers. Whether you’re creating or buying candles, choosing responsibly sourced materials helps protect both the planet and the future of the candle industry.
Sources: