EU Countries Urge Delay in Deforestation Regulation
Eighteen EU countries sent a letter to the European Commission on Monday requesting a delay and simplification of deforestation regulations. The letter highlights the need for more time for third countries to comply, resulting in authorities postponing the application of the Deforestation Regulation until December 31, 2025, reports 24brussels.
The agriculture ministers contend that the regulation fails to consider existing forest protection standards adopted by individual countries, posing “disproportionate bureaucratic obligations” on those with negligible deforestation risks.
Forests account for around 30% of the Earth’s land area and are critical to maintaining approximately 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity. The EU’s regulations aim to govern the import and export of commodities that contribute to deforestation and forest degradation.
However, the 18 ministers assert that the Commission should integrate deforestation rules into its current deregulation initiatives. They propose eliminating obligations in nations where agricultural practices sustain significant forest cover and in those deemed as low-risk.
Countries signing the letter include Portugal, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Slovakia, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, the Czech Republic, Romania, and Sweden.
