The UK announced planned rainforest protection measures on Tuesday that would fine larger businesses if they use products in their supply chains that were grown on illegally deforested land.
Amazon Rainforest
Under proposed new rules, larger companies operating in the UK would be breaking UK law if they do not comply with local laws that protect the natural environment in places such as the Amazon rainforest.Key commodities under scrutiny in supply chains would include soya beans, cocoa, rubber, beef, and palm oil.
Non-compliant UK companies making “illegally produced commodities that have no place in the UK market” would face fines, the levels of which have yet to be set.
The government is conducting a six-week international consultation on the proposed law.
Reducing Impact
Along with “extreme weather events” and “biodiversity loss,” the government announcement linked deforestation to the “spread of infectious diseases.”Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), bird flu, and Ebola are examples of diseases thought to have originated in animals.
“The evidence linking deforestation with ... biodiversity loss and the spread of zoonotic diseases is compelling. A new law is an important part of the solution and is urgently needed,” Ruth Chambers from Greener UK, a coalition of 13 major environmental organizations, said.
“We will continue to work closely with farmers, business and governments around the world to ensure that we can protect our vital forests and support livelihoods as we build back greener from coronavirus,” Lord Goldsmith said.