Since the enforcement of the European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR) in 2013, operators have been required to ensure the legality of timber products in the European market. However, in response to the urgent need to halt deforestation and forest degradation, the European Union has reached a critical milestone with the adoption of the Regulation against Deforestation and Forest Degradation.

What is the EUDR and why was it established?

The EUDR, which came into force on June 29, 2023, represents a direct response from the European Union to the climate emergency and biodiversity loss. Its main objective is to eliminate the placing on the market of products contributing to deforestation or forest degradation after December 31, 2020. This initiative aligns with the recommendations of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, highlighting the crucial impact of preserving forest ecosystems on reducing CO2 levels.

While the EUTR only covered timber, the RDUE extends to beef, palm oil, soy, coffee, cocoa, rubber, and timber, to which certain derivatives should be added.

What does the EUDR change for businesses?

The EUDR transforms the landscape of import-export by imposing additional obligations on businesses. In addition to complying with EUTR standards, companies will now have to ensure that their products have not contributed to deforestation or forest degradation after 2020. This expanded responsibility will require increased vigilance throughout the supply chain, with stricter controls on the origin of raw materials.

Next Steps:

From December 30, 2024, the EUDR will be fully applicable to all EU Member States, with an extended transitional period until June 30, 2025, for SMEs. Competent authorities, designated in each Member State, will be tasked with enforcing and monitoring compliance with the EUDR.

In France, the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture will be responsible for these controls, benefiting from advanced tools such as satellite monitoring and DNA analysis to verify the origin of products.