Regulation and Beyond: Navigating the Complexities of Environmental Compliance

25 November 2024 Event report

In a world increasingly defined by its environmental challenges, a gathering of experts at the Climate Conference in Baku (COP 29) shed light on the intricate dance between regulation and sustainability.

The side event, titled "Regulation and Beyond – Opportunities & Challenges," brought together leading voices in forestry and environmental policy to explore how regulations like the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) are shaping the future of our planet.

Moderated by Sarah Bray, Senior Policy Manager at the Australian Forest Products Association, the event featured insightful contributions from Françoise Van de Ven, President of ATIBT; Jennifer Conje, Director of the Division of Forest Management at ITTO; and Thorsten Arndt, Head of Advocacy at PEFC International.

The Regulatory Maze

Françoise Van de Ven opened the discussion by addressing the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), highlighting its recent postponement and the ambiguities surrounding its amendments. She emphasized that while certified companies were prepared for the EUDR, the lack of readiness among customs and information systems posed significant challenges. Françoise also pointed out the potential adverse effects of additional EU-imposed criteria on imports, which could undermine local economies and sustainable practices.

The Role of Regulation

Jennifer Conje highlighted that regulations drive change within business supply chains, citing the impacts of the EU Timber Regulation and the Lacey Act. However, she stressed the importance of creating regulations that are sustainable and balanced across environmental, economic, and social goals.

Jennifer emphasized the critical role of sustainable forestry and certification in maintaining economic value and supporting local livelihoods, especially in regions where forests are integral to the community's survival.

PEFC: A Beacon of Sustainable Forestry

Thorsten Arndt highlighted that PEFC simplifies complex EUDR requirements by translating them into clear, understandable steps, using the familiar language of the PEFC Chain of Custody standard.

He emphasized that PEFC certification is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it is about fostering a culture of sustainability that benefits both the environment and local communities. By setting high standards and ensuring rigorous compliance through independent audits, PEFC helps forest owners and managers implement best practices that go beyond mere legal compliance.

This approach ensures that forests are managed responsibly, preserving biodiversity, and supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on them.

Thorsten highlighted that PEFC's comprehensive certification system addresses not only deforestation but also the broader social and economic impacts of forestry. This holistic approach makes PEFC a vital partner in achieving sustainable development goals and combating climate change.

Balancing Act

Moderator Sarah Bray set the stage by acknowledging the complexity of achieving biodiversity, carbon, and equity outcomes through regulation.

She noted, "Governments are grappling with how to achieve these goals, often looking to regulation at various levels – international, federal, state, and local. Unfortunately, these regulations don't always knit together seamlessly."

This sentiment was echoed throughout the discussion, emphasizing the need for cohesive and well-coordinated policies. The panelists collectively emphasized the need for nuanced and well-implemented policies that involve local stakeholders. They argued that regulations should not only aim to prevent negative outcomes but also promote positive environmental and social impacts.

The discussion highlighted the importance of international cooperation and the role of certification in bridging the gap between regulatory frameworks and practical implementation.

Final Thoughts

The event concluded with a call for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among policymakers, businesses, and certification systems. The panelists expressed hope that the insights shared would inform future regulatory developments, ensuring that environmental regulations achieve their intended goals without unintended negative consequences.

As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and deforestation, events like "Regulation and Beyond" play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future. The insights and recommendations from this discussion underscore the importance of thoughtful, inclusive, and effective environmental governance.