German and European companies call for banning import of raw materials and goods that are associated with the destruction of nature and human rights violations

Berlin, December 2nd, 2022:Before the decision on December 5th in the EU trilogue, leading German food retailers and other European companies are calling for the planned EU regulation against deforestation not only to exclude all forests from degradation, but also to prevent the conversion of bush land and gapping trees . According to the 19 companies, this would enable fairer implementation and control of legislation. The planned regulation is intended to ban the import of raw materials and goods that are associated with the destruction of nature and human rights violations. From Germany signed the letter to EU ministers, Commission and Parliament Aldi Nord, Aldi Süd, Budni, EDEKA, Kaufland, Lidl, Netto Marken-Discount and Rewe. Other signatories include Ahold Delhaize, Ecosia,

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), forest is defined by the canopy cover of the trees (at least 10 percent) in an area of ​​at least 5,000 m². If there are too few trees or only small shrubs, then this counts as "other wooded land" ("other wooded lands"). By also including sparsely treed areas and shrubland in the regulation, it would be easier for companies and controlling authorities to implement the regulation and create a level playing field for all, the letter said. Against the background of the climate and biodiversity crisis, the conversion of these areas into agricultural areas should be prevented.