The government has confirmed that it will mirror the EU’s approach in forthcoming new GB deforestation legislation.
The intention is to require businesses with an annual turnover of more than £1 million that use various forest risk commodities, including soya, to carry out due diligence to ensure they are produced in compliance with relevant local laws.
The businesses would need to ensure they establish a due diligence system, report on their activity and hold proof of this compliance by collecting geolocation data about the origin of the specific products.
The government confirmed during London Climate Action Week in late-June that it intends to ensure these measures ‘operate consistently alongside’ the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which will apply from December 30, 2026, after implementation was twice delayed by a year
The EUDR will continue to apply in Northern Ireland as part of arrangements to maintain its unique access to the EU single market.
The government said aligning the GB regulation with EUDR will support its commitment to protecting the UK internal market and supporting export-led growth, while avoiding duplication of business burdens and disincentives to trade in Northern Ireland.
The government will issue detailed proposals for consultation, although there has been no indication of timings.
Nature Minister Mary Creagh said: “Tackling global deforestation is one of the most effective ways we can address climate change and protect some of the world’s most unique and precious wildlife.
“That is why we are leading by example and scrutinising our own supply chains. Eliminating products linked to illegal deforestation not only helps to protect precious ecosystems but is good for our collective resilience and long-term prosperity.”
Andrew Opie, director of food & sustainability at the British Retail Consortium, welcomed the announcement as an ‘important step in driving forest conservation across retail supply chains’, while supporting alignment with the EU to avoid unnecessary costs and complexity for retailers and their customers.
“However, with the EU regulation due to take effect in Northern Ireland at the end of the year, it is important that the Government takes a pragmatic approach to enforcement to minimise disruption for businesses and consumers,” he said.