Mongabay · Climate & nature

US Paper Industry Lobbies EU to Weaken Deforestation Law

North American timber and paper industries are lobbying the EU to weaken its new Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which requires proof that products sold in Europe do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation.

The AF&PA spent nearly $11 million on lobbying since 2023, with its PAC contributing over $272,000. Lawmakers receiving donations have also pressured the EU for exemptions and a "no-risk" category.

Industry groups and governments seek exemptions to the EUDR's traceability rules. The law requires proof products are deforestation-free and tracing to the land of origin with GPS coordinates.

Industry claims sustainable practices exempt them. Conservationists argue "sustainable forestry" is vague and masks degradation, citing boreal forest loss in Canada and pine plantations in the U.S. Southeast.

The EUDR's inclusion of "degradation" broadens scrutiny. Boreal and temperate forests, vital carbon sinks, have seen significant tree cover loss globally, with the US, Canada, and Russia leading logging-related loss.

Despite lobbying, the EU's updated regulations maintained traceability and degradation inclusion. The US forest products industry is valued at $300 billion, with pulp and paper exceeding $65 billion.

Canadian groups also oppose the rules, seeking delayed enforcement and reduced traceability. International industry associations want less oversight in low-risk countries.

US government officials have pressed for exemptions, but the EUDR's core traceability requirements remain unchanged.

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