Press release
Commission announces plan to delay flagship anti-deforestation law – lawyers react
2 October 2024
In a major blow for the world's forests and the fight against climate change and biodiversity loss, the European Commission today announced plans to delay the implementation of its flagship law against global deforestation.
ClientEarth lawyer Michael Rice said:
“We are very disappointed that the Commission is dragging its feet on the EU Deforestation Regulation - the world's first law to tackle the problem of global deforestation.
“With this law, the EU could finally take responsibility for its major role in driving global deforestation, while encouraging action to save the world's remaining forests – which are so important in the fight against catastrophic climate change.
“We cannot hit pause on the climate crisis, we cannot postpone catastrophic biodiversity loss. Postponing this law is not only delaying but actively preventing action against these crises, threatening and compromising the lives of Indigenous Peoples who rely on forests for their livelihoods.
“It is also letting down millions of European citizens who called for this law, and countless businesses and small farmers – including outside the EU – who have strongly supported it and made significant investments to comply with the law on time.”
“Deforestation has only intensified in the three years since the Commission proposed this law. The urgency to take meaningful action has only escalated.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
Today, companies and CSOs have opposed any calls to reopen the EU deforestation regulation
Brazilian civil society organisations have recently rejected the Brazilian government’ push to delay the implementation of the EUDR.
About ClientEarth
ClientEarth is a non-profit organisation that uses the law to create systemic change that protects the Earth for – and with – its inhabitants. We are tackling climate change, protecting nature and stopping pollution, with partners and citizens around the globe. We hold industry and governments to account, and defend everyone’s right to a healthy world. From our offices in Europe, Asia and the USA we shape, implement and enforce the law, to build a future for our planet in which people and nature can thrive together.