Summary of Article 1 of the EUDR Regulation

Key Points

Scope and Commodities Covered

Article 1 outlines that the regulation applies to a specific set of commodities and products. These include cattle, cocoa, coffee, oil palm, rubber, soya, and wood, which are identified as significant contributors to deforestation when not sustainably sourced. The regulation targets these commodities when they are placed or made available on the EU market or exported from the EU.

Objective of the Regulation

The regulation aims to reduce the EU's impact on global deforestation and forest degradation. It emphasizes the need for products entering the EU market to be "deforestation-free" and comply with the laws of the country of production. By enforcing these standards, the EU seeks to promote sustainable production practices and reduce the consumption of products linked to deforestation.

Link to Environmental Goals

The regulation supports broader environmental goals, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the protection of biodiversity. By ensuring that products are sourced responsibly, the EUDR contributes to global efforts to combat climate change and preserve natural ecosystems.

Exemptions and Timeline

The regulation does not apply to products produced before a certain date, providing a clear timeline for compliance. This ensures that only products compliant with the new standards are allowed in the EU market after the regulation takes full effect.

In summary, Article 1 of the EUDR regulation sets the stage for a significant shift in how commodities linked to deforestation are traded in the EU. It underscores the EU's commitment to environmental sustainability by imposing strict requirements on products to ensure they do not contribute to deforestation and are legally sourced.