Deforestation-free trade is essential to protect our planet and ensure a sustainable future. UNECE hosted a high-level dialogue on deforestation-free trade on 13 November 2024 to discuss how to make this vision a reality. The discussions emphasized that the development of the necessary modalities should be inclusive, considering the needs of all stakeholders, including micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises and smallholders.
While deforestation-free tools are essential, it's crucial to ensure that they do not disproportionately burden these groups. Participants agreed that further dialogue was needed to ensure the full alignment of trade with environmental protection and social equity.
The event brought together government officials, industry representatives, civil society organizations, and experts to discuss the critical role of trade in addressing deforestation and forest degradation.
The dialogue focused on the increasing demand for deforestation-free sustainable products and the need for robust trade policies to promote responsible sourcing and consumption.
Participants explored innovative approaches to trace the origin of commodities, such as timber and agricultural products, to ensure they are produced in a sustainable manner.
Key topics discussed and highlighted included:
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Enhancing inclusivity, avoiding fragmentation and taking into account the various stages of development of trading countries and their particular conditions.
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Strengthening international cooperation to combat deforestation and promote sustainable forest management.
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Leveraging dialogue among all stakeholders for enhanced transparency and traceability of value chains to identify and address deforestation risks.
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Engaging with all stakeholders including producers, small-holders, consumers, and civil society, to implement deforestation-free trade as emphasized.
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Knowing the drivers of deforestation and addressing the root causes
UNECE can provide countries with a platform for dialogue to advance deforestation-free trade.
For more details on the discussion, visit: https://unece.org/info/Forests/events/392166