What is the EUDR? Everything about the EU Deforestation Regulation for packaging

The EUDR is one of the most far-reaching new European regulations for companies working with natural raw materials. For companies that use paper or cardboard packaging, the EUDR is directly relevant. But what exactly does the regulation involve and what should you as a company do?

What is the EUDR?

The EUDR, short for EU Deforestation Regulation, is a European regulation that requires companies to demonstrate that their raw materials do not contribute to deforestation or forest degradation. The regulation applies to a wide range of materials, including wood, paper, cardboard, soy, palm oil, beef, cocoa and coffee.

For companies that use paper or cardboard packaging, the EUDR therefore applies directly. Can't you demonstrate that your raw materials come from legally harvested forests that do not contribute to deforestation? Then you may no longer place that packaging on the EU market.

Who does the EUDR apply to?

The EUDR applies to every company that imports or exports products made from the raw materials mentioned. Companies that use paper or cardboard packaging also fall under the regulation if that packaging is made from wood sourced from risk areas.

Both large companies and SMEs are affected by the EUDR, although slightly longer transition periods apply to small and micro-enterprises.

What are the obligations?

The EUDR obliges companies to do three things. First, due diligence: you must be able to provide a due diligence statement demonstrating that your raw materials do not contribute to deforestation. Second, traceability: you must be able to trace the origin of your raw materials down to plot level. Third, risk assessment: you must carry out a risk assessment of your supplier chain and demonstrate that you have taken measures to minimize risks.

What do you need to provide for EUDR compliance?

For EUDR compliance you need certificates and origin documents that demonstrate the origin of your raw materials. Think of FSC or PEFC certification for paper and cardboard. In addition, you must be able to provide a due diligence statement and be able to demonstrate that your suppliers meet the EUDR requirements.

At RE-PACKED, we check your raw material supply chain and help you get the right documentation in order. From certificates to due diligence statements, we make sure you're compliant.

What are the risks if you do nothing?

Companies that do not comply with the EUDR risk heavy fines of at least 4% of annual turnover in the EU, confiscation of products and revenue, exclusion from the EU market and serious reputational damage.

Enforcement of the EUDR is being taken seriously. The European Commission has indicated it will actively monitor compliance, and member states are required to appoint national enforcement authorities.

EUDR and packaging: what does it mean in practice?

For companies that use paper or cardboard packaging, the EUDR means they need to check whether their packaging suppliers have the right certification and documentation. An FSC or PEFC-certified supplier offers the most certainty, but even then you as a company must carry out and document due diligence yourself.

At RE-PACKED, we work exclusively with certified European manufacturers and can help you draw up the right documentation for EUDR compliance.

How does RE-PACKED help with the EUDR?

At RE-PACKED, we check your raw material supply chain and make sure you have the right documentation in order. From origin certificates to due diligence statements and risk assessments. That way you don't have to worry about the EUDR and can focus on your own business.

Companies that invest in EUDR compliance now not only avoid fines, but also build a more sustainable and transparent supply chain for the future.