Canopy Welcomes EU’s Decision to Move Forward with Deforestation Regulation

Nicole Rycroft, Founder & CEO of Canopy, has welcomed the European Union’s decision to proceed with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) this year, following reports that the EU has dropped plans for another one-year delay. Instead, a six-month grace period has been proposed before enforcement begins.

Rycroft, who leads the environmental non-profit Canopy, which collaborates with over 950 global brands to transform supply chains and scale low-impact Next Gen alternatives, shared her latest reaction:

“The decision to move forward with the EU Deforestation Regulation this year is a welcome course correction by the European Commission. It’s a powerful signal that Europe remains committed to protecting the world’s forests and building an economy fit for the 21st century - an especially meaningful message on the eve of this year’s COP in the Amazon. It shows what’s possible when governments, businesses, and innovators move together toward a common goal: building supply chains that are both sustainable and resilient.

"While there are 6- and 12-month delays related to non-compliance penalties and small business compliance respectively, we expect the regulation will ultimately be implemented in full force.

"Across the fashion, packaging, and food sectors, many companies are already proving that deforestation-free and circular sourcing is both achievable and economically smart. With policy momentum back on track, business certainty will be strengthened. Now, the opportunity is to accelerate, to mobilize new investment and make Next Gen materials and forest protection the foundation of the global economy.”