To respond to the concerns of companies and partner countries, the European Commission is proposing to postpone regulations against global deforestation for a year, a decision condemned by NGOs.
HE cocoa It is one of the important products included in the package. European regulations aiming to combat deforestation World. The text was planned to come into force at the end of the year, but in the face of persistent calls from European Union (EU) companies and international partners, the European Commission made the proposal last week. postpone for 12 months implementation of these measures.
Belgium is a major player in this sector, which is why Antwerp-based Vollers welcomes the postponement proposed by the Commission. “We are very pleased,” explains Anne Pauwels, the company’s general manager in the Belgian port. The company mainly stores and transports cocoa for the largest multinational companies in the industry.
The purpose of the EUDR (as the regulation is known in English) is to regulate access to the community market and the export of products that contribute to exports from the EU. deforestation And forest degradation all over the world. The text mainly targets cocoa, coffee, soybeans, palm oil, wood, rubber and cattle. Effects the entire supply chain, From manufacturers to importers, including intermediaries such as Vollers.
The company plans to produce 200,000 tons in 2022/2023. cocoamore than 111,000 tonnes, mainly in West Africa cafe in the same period.
“It is important for us to know what combinations there will be, how the shipments will enter Europe, what the certification (procedures) and platform will be. Where can we find this information? Who will provide it?” These are just some questions A few months are still needed to reach a definitive answer to this question posed by Anne Pauwels.
The risks for the EU are high as 27 people are said to be responsible. deforestation an area of over 248,000 hectares per year almost the size of Luxembourg.
EU imports significantly contribute to global deforestation
Michael Rice, an expert on sustainable supply chains for the Brussels-based NGO ClientEarth, notes: ” EU Is that it? second largest importer related to deforestation It is behind only China, which has a much larger population in the world.
“This does not mean that the EU is going abroad to cut down forests. Most of the products we import Products consumed and produced in the European Union at the expense of the world’s forests” he adds.
However, according to the NGO, European regulations may change this situation. This is “the first (law) in the world” serious measures to combat deforestation,” insists Michael Rice.
Loess forests They cover 30% of the Earth’s surface and host 80% of terrestrial biodiversity. They also play a game essential role in the fight against climate change. Woodlands act as follows: carbon sinks and they also stabilize soil, helping to limit the impact of natural disasters.
The Commission’s proposal must be approved by the European Parliament and the Council, the body representing the Member States. If the postponement is approved big companies they will have Until December 30, 2025 with enforce regulations. Small and medium-sized companies will have until June 30, 2026.
