Deforestation-Free Supply Chains

Definition of deforestation-free supply chains in sustainable agriculture.

Deforestation-free supply chains are an essential component of sustainable agriculture aimed at producing agricultural products in a way that does not threaten forest stocks. This initiative is fundamental in the fight against global forest loss and in the protection of biodiversity. The EU regulation on deforestation-free supply chains, which will come into effect on December 30, 2025, stipulates that certain raw materials, including beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, and timber, may only be traded in the EU if they are not linked to deforestation or forest degradation.

Businesses are required to fulfill comprehensive due diligence obligations that include regular risk analysis and the implementation of mitigation strategies. The success of this regulation relies on close collaboration between businesses, governments, and civil society. Supporting projects and partnerships, such as the ELAN project and the Tropical Forest Alliance, play a crucial role in implementing and promoting deforestation-free supply chains.

The regulation aims not only to promote environmentally friendly practices but also to consider the social and economic impacts on smallholder farmers and indigenous communities. Key objectives include the reduction of deforestation by 2030 and the protection of biodiversity. In this context, the EU regulation is viewed as an important measure to enable a fairer and more sustainable global economy.