The European Parliament's recent vote to delay the EU deforestation regulation has raised concerns among environmental groups and industry leaders alike. Originally scheduled to take effect by December 2024 for large companies, the law will now be postponed to the end of 2025, with smaller companies given until mid-2026 to comply. The regulation mandates that key commodities such as beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, and wood, along with their derivatives, must not originate from deforested land, requiring importers to ensure full traceability.

While the delay is seen by some as an opportunity for industries to prepare, the amendments accompanying the postponement have sparked significant backlash. Critics warn that these changes could weaken the law’s effectiveness, potentially leading to increased global deforestation.

Environmental groups argue that this delay undermines urgent climate action. “We are facing a global emergency,” stated Anna Cavazzini, MEP for Germany’s Green Party. “I simply find it irresponsible to delay this law by another year in this situation.” EU data suggests that the postponement could result in an additional 2,300 square kilometers of deforestation, further exacerbating the global climate crisis. Cavazzini also cautioned that the amendments might create loopholes, saying, “With this delay, a new legislative proposal is effectively being introduced into the process... and there are many, many actors who would prefer to scrap or weaken the law.”

On the other hand, supporters of the delay, such as Christine Schneider of the EPP Group, argue that it gives member states and industries more time to adjust. “We aim to stop illegal global deforestation, but without overburdening European farmers, companies, or international trading partners,” Schneider explained.

Industry reactions have been mixed. Major cocoa producers like Ghana and Ivory Coast are already working to align with the regulation, implementing traceability systems for cocoa beans. However, industry leaders in Europe, including Nestlé, Mars Wrigley, and Ferrero, expressed concerns about the impact of the delay. In an open letter, they stated, “This would only serve to increase uncertainty and jeopardize the significant investments our member companies have made in preparing for its application.” Nicole Polsterer of Fern added, “I don’t think this bodes well for business security and Europe’s relationship with trade partners.”

The vote, passed with 371 votes in favor, signals a shift in the European Parliament’s approach to environmental regulation, with potential long-term implications for the EU’s Green Deal and its global sustainability leadership. The European Commission now faces a decision on whether to accept or reject the amendments, with environmental advocates warning that doing so could set a concerning precedent for future climate policies. Eric Mamer, the Commission’s spokesperson, emphasized that the Commission is still evaluating the vote’s outcome.

Greenpeace has voiced concerns that weakening the deforestation regulation could undermine the EU’s position as a global sustainability leader and hinder international efforts to combat deforestation and climate change.