Amid EUDR delay, FSC calls for swift action for deforestation-free future

Bonn, 3 December 2024 – The European Parliament, Council of the European Union (EU), and EU Commission have agreed to a one-year delay in the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), amongst other outcomes. This decision underscores the complexity of tackling deforestation and degradation whilst ensuring regulations are both rigorous and enforceable.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) remains a staunch supporter of the EUDR’s ambition to create deforestation-free supply chains, in Europe and globally. This delay should not deter immediate action for sustainable forestry. We urge stakeholders to take the tangible steps already available and continue advancing forest stewardship together.

“Reaching this outcome has been a complex and emotional journey for the many who care about the future of our forests. It’s now time to move forward and not delay action. The additional time is an opportunity to unite under a common goal: ensuring that EUDR delivers maximum impact when it comes into effect. Our forests—and the communities who depend on them—cannot afford complacency.” said Matteo Mascolo, FSC’s Lead, EU Affairs & Engagement.

Encouraging progress during uncertainty and delay: FSC’s recommendations

1. Act as if the EUDR is already in effect

Companies should not delay testing and implementing solutions. This will ensure preparedness once EUDR comes into effect. Importantly, it will also advance the stewardship our forests need. FSC has been supporting companies’ compliance journeys since the EUDR came into force. Our standards meet – and in some cases exceed – EUDR requirements. By aligning ahead of schedule and moving with urgency, companies can become leaders while demonstrating their commitment to thriving, resilient forests.

2. Accelerate supply chain traceability

EUDR demands unprecedented knowledge about the origin of raw materials. Companies should already start preparing with their trading partners to demonstrate traceability along the supply chain. FSC is currently testing technology to support businesses of all sizes to pass rigorous, secure data along the supply chain and more easily demonstrate that their FSC-certified wood and rubber products meet EUDR requirements. With this delay, companies also have time to switch to sourcing only FSC-certified materials, which drastically simplifies due diligence, as it verifies sustainable forestry at the source.

3. Strengthen collaboration with EU authorities

EUDR’s success ultimately depends on the capacity of EU Competent Authorities (CAs) to enforce it. Unfortunately, several countries are yet to appoint CAs. FSC calls EU Member States to swiftly nominate and equip CAs with the necessary resources and tools for doing so. FSC pledges to work closely with the EU CAs to ensure our certification standards with enforcement needs that can ensure credible, robust monitoring.

4. Empower smallholders and Indigenous Peoples while collaborating with governments

Smallholders and Indigenous Peoples do not currently have obligations under EUDR, they are the real stewards of our forests. They are crucial to the fight against deforestation, and certification can help their role with EUDR implementation. FSC prioritizes these communities, upholding their rights and providing inclusive tools and capacity-building to empower them. Equally important is collaboration with governments to best ensure deforestation-free policies are harmonized, equitable, and effective. As a global system, FSC strives to support partner countries to access the EU market through FSC Certification and EUDR solutions.

"FSC has championed sustainable forestry for three decades, and we remain committed to support businesses, communities, and governments as they navigate EUDR compliance and future revisions. Forests cannot wait, and we must use this additional time to ensure that no one is left behind. This legislation is an important step towards a future where forest stewardship is the global norm. We will do everything we can to make it a success," added Subhra Bhattacharjee, FSC’s Director General.

Building momentum towards COP30: a global vision

COP30, set to take place in Belém, Brazil next November will be a pivotal moment for forest sustainability. It will be a chance to build upon EUDR for strengthened international collaboration towards deforestation-free supply chains.

"The urgency for a deforestation-free market extends far beyond Europe. With COP30 and G20 already in active preparations by Brazil, we have an opportunity to use the EUDR as a foundation for further international cooperation and creating a lasting impact on forests worldwide. Sourcing from sustainably managed forests—such as those certified by FSC—strengthens forests’ potential as nature-based solutions to climate change and take the bioeconomy agenda to the next level," said Anand Punja, FSC’s Chief Engagement and Partnership Officer.

How to get in touch

• For general interest, information on EUDR, and an overview of FSC's work, please visit fsc.org/EUDR
• If you're a company ready to start implementing, or looking for more detail on FSC Aligned for EUDR, please visit the FSC EUDR Journey site.
• For more information on FSC Trace, please visit fsc.org/FSCTrace
• More questions? Visit our FAQ page or send an email to EUDR@fsc.org.