EUDR and the fight against deforestation in the soy industry

The role of soy production in global deforestation

Soybean production is one of the leading causes of global deforestation. Over 75% of the world’s soy is used in animal feed, making it a crucial commodity for agriculture. However, this demand comes at an environmental cost, as forests are cleared to make way for soy farms. The EUDR and soy are now closely linked, as the European Union’s Deforestation Regulation introduces strict guidelines to ensure that soy production is deforestation-free. In furthermore addressing the environmental impact of soy farming, these measures aim to foster a more sustainable agricultural future while encouraging compliance throughout the supply chain.

Why is soy in such high demand?

Soybeans are a nutritional powerhouse, containing all nine essential amino acids and high quality protein. These attributes make soy an essential ingredient in human and animal diets and a cost-effective source of protein.

Environmental impact of growing demand for soy

The growing global appetite for soybeans has increased production pressure, leading to widespread deforestation. This agricultural expansion accounts for a significant proportion of global deforestation, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions.

How the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) affects soy

The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) aims to reduce deforestation by introducing strict guidelines for the soy supply chain. These rules include

• Banning soy production on deforested land after 2020.
• Requiring GPS data for production areas.
• Mandating the sharing of key information throughout the supply chain.
• Respecting land use and labour rights.

Steps to achieve EUDR compliance in the soy market

Soy producers, importers and traders must follow a due diligence process to comply with the EUDR. This includes:

1. Gathering evidence to ensure that soy products are deforestation-free.
2. Assessing the risks of non-compliance.
3. Taking action to mitigate identified risks.
4. By meeting these requirements, the soy industry can contribute to global efforts to reduce deforestation and promote sustainable agricultural practices.