Postponement of Key Legislation
The European Parliament voted to delay and modify its proposed deforestation law, which aims to impose strict due diligence obligations on traders importing specific raw materials into Europe. The law seeks to ensure that products such as beef, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, rubber, soy, and wood do not originate from deforested land. This decision emerged from a contentious vote where a right-wing majority pushed for changes that would weaken the initial provisions.
Shift in Implementation Timeline
Originally set to take effect on December 30, 2024, the deforestation law’s implementation will now face a one-year extension for large companies, moving the deadline to the end of 2025. Smaller enterprises will have until mid-2026 to comply. The European Commission proposed this delay to allow for a sensible phasing-in period, which the EU member states quickly supported. However, the Parliament’s approval now introduces eight amendments that could lower compliance standards for importers.
Controversial Amendments Approved
The newly approved amendments aim to simplify processes and ease the burden on importers, but environmental NGOs have raised concerns that these changes could dilute the effectiveness of the law. For instance, the introduction of a “no-risk” category for countries with stable forest development will allow them to face lighter requirements. MEP Christine Schneider emphasized the need to balance environmental goals with the economic considerations of importers, arguing against imposing excessive obligations on countries demonstrating sustainable forest management.
Review Process Ahead
The entire legislative package will undergo further scrutiny, requiring approval again from both the European Parliament and the Council. The European Commission has the authority to withdraw the proposal or contest the amendments made by Parliament, which could complicate the decision-making process. A unanimous agreement would now be necessary for any changes approved by Parliament, a significant shift from the usual practice of requiring only a qualified majority.
Political Implications and Environmental Concerns
The vote reflects a shift in the political landscape within the European Parliament, raising fears among environmental advocates that this rightward trend may undermine future environmental initiatives, including essential components of the Green Deal. Critics like Greenpeace warn that a softened deforestation law could set a troubling precedent, potentially leading to further reversals of existing environmental protections. In light of these shifts, Commission President Ursula von der Leyen faces increasing pressure from within her own party, complicating her stance on environmental legislation moving forward.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Reuters
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