With only 4 months until the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) begins to impact large organizations, this is becoming a key topic across the book publishing industry.
EUDR came into effect on June 29, 2023, and is designed to ensure that products linked to deforestation or forest degradation are excluded from the EU market. It replaced the earlier European Union Timber Regulation (EUTR). For large organizations, compliance with EUDR will be required by December 31, 2024, and for smaller organizations by June 30, 2025.
What products are included?
The regulation targets commodities linked to issues of deforestation such as wood, cocoa, soy, coffee, rubber, and their derivatives like furniture, chocolate, and paper. The inclusion of printed matter like books, was not previously covered under EUTR.
Who is responsible for compliance and what are the consequences of non-compliance?
Non-compliance could lead to fines of up to 4% of the company's EU turnover, confiscation of goods, or exclusion from public contracts. Production areas must adhere to local social and environmental laws, and the onus is on the company placing the product on the EU market to ensure compliance. Companies must follow a specific due diligence process with transparent supply chain information.
How will compliance be monitored?
Regular inspections by national authorities are expected and companies should also prepare for scrutiny from private parties. Compliance now requires traceability from the tree's geolocation to the final printed product. For a book, this involves tracking the source of paper for text pages, endpapers, covers, and jackets. The regulation exempts 100% recycled materials from due diligence requirements, although mixed-source materials will still require documentation.
More resources
from Book Industry Communication (BIC)
from the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry
from White & Case Global Law Firm
from the Forest Stewardship Council
Photo by Collie Coburn on Unsplash