The UK has proposed mandatory due diligence rules to prevent everyday imports — including coffee, cocoa, soy and rubber — from contributing to illegal deforestation abroad. The measures, to be announced at London Climate Action Week, would use powers in the Environment Act and complement tougher timber rules. A University of York study found 99.7% of deforestation linked to UK consumption happens overseas; in 2023 this equated to about 29,000 hectares and 9.4 million metric tons of emissions.
UK Proposes Tough New Rules to Stop Imports Fueling Illegal Deforestation
FILE PHOTO: Autumn leaves are reflected in Loch Faskally in Pitlochry, Scotland October 29, 2014. REUTERS/Russell Cheyne/ File PHoto
The UK government has unveiled proposals for stronger rules to ensure everyday products sold in Britain — from coffee and cocoa to soy and rubber — are not linked to illegal deforestation overseas. Ministers say the move will place mandatory checks on supply chains and bring tougher enforcement under existing environmental legislation.
What The Proposal Would Do
- Require businesses trading commodities sourced from rainforest regions to carry out mandatory due diligence and verify their supply chains do not contribute to illegal deforestation.
- Cover a wide range of internationally traded agricultural commodities, including coffee, cocoa, soy and rubber.
- Introduce penalties and enforcement powers using provisions in the Environment Act and strengthen existing timber regulations.
Process And Timing
The government plans to consult with businesses and international partners on how the rules should operate. Ministers intend to announce the changes during London Climate Action Week, providing details on compliance expectations and enforcement mechanisms.
Evidence And Expected Impact
Although deforestation within the UK is limited, a University of York study cited by the government estimated that 99.7% of deforestation associated with UK consumption happens overseas. In 2023, UK consumption of the relevant commodities was linked to roughly 29,000 hectares of deforestation and about 9.4 million metric tons of related carbon emissions.
The government also highlights that around 90% of global deforestation is driven by agricultural expansion — much of it tied to internationally traded commodities — and says the new rules aim to reduce the UK’s overseas footprint.
Reporting by Muvija M; Editing by Emelia Sithole-Matarise.
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