Canopy CEO Reacts to Latest EU Deforestation Law Delay

Nicole Rycroft, Founder & CEO of Canopy, has reacted strongly to the European Union’s decision to once again delay the implementation of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).

Rycroft stated, “The EU’s decision to once again delay the implementation of the EUDR creates uncertainty when clarity and momentum are needed. Forests — and the climate — cannot afford another year of inaction. Every delay risks eroding market confidence, slowing progress, and undermining those companies already moving in good faith to prepare their supply chains.”

She emphasized that the delay should not be treated as a pause, but rather as an opportunity for proactive transformation: “Companies must use this delay springboard, not a snooze button. Companies have a critical window to build resiliency in their supply chains: to transition from volatile extractive forest-dependent products to Next Gen, low-impact solutions that reduce risk and strengthen traceability. By moving faster, businesses not only get ahead of regulation, but also respond to growing consumer and investor expectations for leadership and resilience.”

Rycroft concluded with a call for joint action: “With ambitious policy and industry leadership working in tandem, we can keep forests standing, future-proof supply chains, and deliver benefits for both business and the planet.”

Canopy, an environmental non-profit working with more than 950 global brands, continues to champion the shift toward sustainable, Next Gen alternatives to reduce the industry’s reliance on forest-based supply chains.