Updated Myths & Facts For 2024

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) is a transformative piece of legislation aimed at halting global deforestation by imposing stringent compliance measures on businesses importing or exporting commodities associated with forest degradation. While its environmental impact is undisputed, the ripple effect on global supply chains is profound, influencing not only operational frameworks but also the future landscape of supply chain management. 1. Redefining Supply Chain Transparency - The EUDR mandates companies to prove that their supply chains are deforestation-free, requiring traceability of products from their origin to the point of sale. 2. Increased Costs and Compliance Burden - Businesses must invest in data collection technologies, hire specialists, and reconfigure their supply chains to guarantee that raw materials sourced are in line with EUDR mandates. 3. Risk Mitigation and Strategic Shifts - Companies are prioritizing partnerships with suppliers that can provide clear evidence of sustainable practices, while others are exploring new sourcing regions where deforestation concerns are less pressing. 4. The Role of Technology in EUDR Compliance - Technology plays a critical role in ensuring EUDR compliance, with digital solutions offering the most promising avenue for companies to track, verify, and audit their supply chains. 5. The Future of Global Supply Chains Under EUDR - As the EUDR continues to reshape the regulatory landscape, the future of global supply chains will see a heavier emphasis on sustainability, traceability, and accountability.

A new survey that finds consumers value-minded this holiday season also ranks the brands they perceive as most sustainable. Bombas was rated the top sustainable brand, followed by Yeti and The North Face, according to Stifel’s “Sustainable Lifestyle Brands Index,” which ranks brands based on U.S. active/casual lifestyle consumer perception of brand sustainability practices. The brands were measured according to three metrics of sustainability: environmental, social and ethical business practices. The Index was released in conjunction with a survey in which Stifel, working with Morning Consult, surveyed 6,053 U.S. active/causal lifestyle brand consumers ages 18-55. The survey data indicates heightened price sensitivity, just as the holiday shopping season kicks into high gear.

FSC was selected as a member of the new 'Forest and Forestry Stakeholder Platform’ established by the European Commission. Dr. Marion Karmann, Senior Research Relations Manager, and Matteo Mascolo, Lead EU Affairs & Engagement, will represent FSC in that forum. The Platform gathers knowledge and expertise on forests and forestry-related matters. Members of the Platform will discuss the EU Forest Strategy for 2030’s implementation, policies to better monitor and protect European forests, and closer-to-nature forestry practices. Matteo Mascolo commented: "We are delighted to be an official member of the Platform. As a multi-stakeholder organization with 30 years of experience on the ground balancing economic, social, and environmental interests in forests, FSC shares the European Union’s goal of making forests resilient. We have knowledge, passion, data, and expertise that we are committed to share with the EU Commission."