EU proposes to delay landmark anti-deforestation law by 12 months

The European Commission announced on Wednesday that it would propose delaying the implementation of a law banning the import of commodities linked to deforestation by one year, following requests from industries and governments worldwide. While the law is considered a significant step in combating climate change, countries like Brazil and Malaysia argue that it is protectionist and could exclude millions of small-scale farmers from accessing the EU market. Industries also warned that the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) might disrupt supply chains and raise prices. In March, 20 of the EU’s 27 member states asked Brussels to scale back or suspend the law, citing concerns that it would negatively impact EU farmers, who would be restricted from exporting products grown on deforested land. The European Commission stated that the proposal would need approval from the European Parliament and member states, and announced the release of additional guidance documents. Environmental activists criticized the delay. Greenpeace remarked that the delay would lead to more deforestation products entering Europe, while WWF expressed doubt about the EU’s commitment to environmental promises. Fern, a European forestry campaign group, urged the EU to strengthen its resolve, especially considering ongoing fires in the Amazon and other regions. Originally set to take effect on December 30, the EUDR would have required companies importing products like soy, beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, timber, and rubber to ensure their supply chains do not contribute to deforestation. Failure to comply would result in hefty fines. This process involves digitally mapping supply chains down to individual plots of land, which critics argue is overly complex due to the global nature of supply chains. Eurocommerce, representing European retailers, appreciated the Commission’s recognition of the potential compliance challenges and supply chain disruptions. However, Brussels maintains that the EUDR is crucial for ending the EU’s significant contribution to deforestation, the second leading cause of climate change after burning fossil fuels. The EU is currently the second largest contributor to deforestation globally, according to WWF data.

source: https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/eu-proposes-12-month-delay-deforestation-regulation-2024-10-02/