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The European Parliament has approved a proposal to grant companies an additional year to comply with the European Union’s new deforestation law. The legislation, designed to combat global deforestation, initially set tighter deadlines, raising concerns among industry stakeholders about its feasibility.
The law mandates that companies ensure their products do not contribute to deforestation, targeting commodities like soy, beef, timber, cocoa, coffee, and palm oil, as well as their derivatives. The proposed extension provides businesses with more time to adapt their supply chains and certify the sustainable origins of their products.
MEPs stressed that the additional year should not be seen as a weakening of environmental objectives but rather as a practical step to ensure smooth implementation without causing major economic disruptions. They emphasized the importance of balancing environmental protection with the competitiveness of European companies in global markets.
Environmental advocates cautiously welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the extra time must not hinder urgent actions needed to halt deforestation worldwide. The Parliament’s proposal will now be negotiated with EU Member States for final approval.
November 22, 2024 / European Parliament / European Union.
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/
