Preparing for the EUDR
As businesses, supply chains, and forest managers gear up to comply with the European Union's (EU) Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR), FSC is taking a proactive approach. At the ATIBT(Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux - International Tropical Timber Technical Association, in English), FSC presented its innovative suite of solutions, FSC Aligned for EUDR, designed to guide companies towards compliance.
Kim Carstensen, Special Envoy at FSC International, explained how FSC's expertise can support certificate holders in meeting EUDR requirements. FSC Aligned for EUDR offers tailored solutions that address sustainability, legality, and due diligence, providing essential tools for data storage and processing.
While FSC certification can be an asset, it's important to note that it does not automatically exempt companies from EUDR obligations. However, FSC certification can demonstrate a company's commitment to sustainability and provide a solid foundation for compliance.
Innovation and sustainability in the tropical forestry sector
The ATIBT Forum, held under the theme "Innovation and Sustainability in the Tropical Forestry Sector," provided a platform for FSC to facilitate discussions on various topics. Gao Ya, FSC's Value Chain Development Manager for Solid Wood, led a round table on the latest market trends and importance of sustainability in the China market and its potential to strengthen sustainability principles through trade with tropical countries.
Research highlights
The forum also featured groundbreaking research, such as a study from the University of Utrecht that confirmed the positive impact of FSC-certified forests on wildlife in the Congo Basin. Researcher Joeri Zwerts presented his findings, highlighting the increased abundance of larger mammals and critically endangered species in FSC-certified forests in Gabon and the Republic of Congo compared to non-certified ones.
FSC delegation
The FSC delegation at the ATIBT Forum included:
- Subhra Bhattacharjee, Director General, FSC International
- Kim Carstensen, Special Envoy, FSC International,
- Wyke Smit, Director of FSC Netherlands
- Daniela Teixeira Vilela, Natural Tropical Forests Manager, FSC International
- Gao Ya, Value Chain Development Manager, FSC International
- Israel Bionyi Nyoh, Senior Communications Manager, FSC Africa