Thank You, Brussels: A Good Day for Climate and Biodiversity Protection

Plant-for-the-Planet Welcomes the Council’s Decision on the EU Regulation for Deforestation-Free Supply Chains

On Tuesday evening, the Council of the European Union made a significant contribution to upholding the European Green Deal by rejecting the European Parliament’s attempts to weaken the EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) (Council of the European Union press release).

The one-year postponement of the EUDR’s implementation is acceptable to allow smallholder farmers in the Global South sufficient time to adapt. However, any substantive weakening of the regulation would have been unacceptable.

A Key Step for Forest Protection

The EUDR is a cornerstone in the global effort to halt the loss of rainforests by 2030. It mandates that companies establish deforestation-free supply chains through clear regulations, ensuring transparency and sustainability in their procurement practices.

Currently, the world loses approximately 10 billion trees annually—more than the total forest stock of Germany, which comprises about 8 billion trees. Tropical rainforests are vital allies in the fight against the climate crisis. Tuesday evening’s decision represents a crucial milestone in preventing their destruction.

The Danger Is Not Over

Despite this success, the risk remains that attempts will be made to weaken this essential regulation before it comes into effect in 12 months. European policymakers must resist the pressure of certain interest groups.

Notably, the European People’s Party (EPP) has signaled its intention to uphold its proposed amendments, even though they were not directly incorporated into the current legal text. This announcement underscores that pressure on the regulation will persist beyond Tuesday’s agreement. The European Commission must remain steadfast to ensure that forest protection is not undermined by future compromises.

Support Through Digital Solutions

Plant-for-the-Planet offers practical support for smallholder farmers through the free EUDR Tracer App. Using satellite data, farmers can assess their compliance with the EUDR and take appropriate action.

The Council’s decision marks a major victory for climate and biodiversity protection. However, vigilance is essential to ensure the long-term future of the world’s forests.