LONDON—The United Kingdom has taken a step forward in helping to ensure that products sold in the U.K. are not linked to illegal deforestation.
The government published details of its "Deforestation Due to Diligence Legislation," secondary regulation to the U.K.'s Environment Act 2021, and it applies to businesses with annual sales of over $62 million and using over 500 metric tons per year of regulated commodities.
The law covers commodities such as palm oil, cocoa, beef, leather and soy, but not natural rubber, which is included in the European Union Deforestation Regulation.
Rubber is a "major omission" from the UK's anti-deforestation law, a statement from environmental NGO Mighty Earth said, noting significant imports of vehicle tires into the country.
Natural rubber was only included in the scope of the EUDR at the last-minute, following intense pressure by environmental lobbyists on Brussels law makers.
The EU regulation has since been challenged by natural rubber producing countries, which have warned that its requirements will undermine the livelihoods of many growers.
