UK government plans new rules to tackle illegal deforestation

The rules are due to be announced at London Climate Action Week

Autumn leaves are reflected in Loch Faskally in Pitlochry, Scotland Oct 29, 2014. REUTERS/Russell Cheyne/ File Photo

Britain is planning new rules to ensure that everyday products sold in the country, including coffee and cocoa, do not contribute to illegal deforestation globally, the government said on Tuesday.

Here are the details:

● Businesses trading in commodities sourced from rainforests, such as soy and rubber, will need to check that their supply chains are not contributing to illegal deforestation.

● The government says it will consult businesses and international partners on the policy, which includes mandatory due diligence requirements for businesses.

● Changes are due to be announced at London Climate Action Week.

● Rules will be enforced using powers in the Environment Act, alongside legislation strengthening existing timber rules.

● While deforestation in Britain is relatively low, a recent University of York study estimated that 99.7 percent of the deforestation associated with UK consumption occurs outside British borders.

● Around 90 percent of global deforestation is driven by agricultural expansion, mostly linked to the production of internationally traded commodities, the government said.

● In 2023, Britain's consumption of these goods was associated with about 29,000 hectares of deforestation worldwide and 9.4 million metric tons of related carbon emissions.