Coffee growers are facing challenges in meeting the requirements of a new European Union law that prohibits the import of products linked to deforestation. The law, which goes into effect at the end of 2024, will require importers of commodities such as coffee, cocoa, livestock, and palm to prove that their products are not contributing to deforestation or face heavy fines. Producer countries have expressed concerns that the law may exclude small farmers from accessing the EU market, as meeting the requirements could be difficult for farmers in remote regions.
JDE Peet’s, a major coffee company, acknowledges the tight deadline for compliance with the new EU law. Despite efforts to simplify some aspects of the law, the company is still struggling to meet the requirements by the deadline. They have been working on mapping and monitoring coffee regions in several countries using satellite imagery and on-the-ground verification, but still need agreements with more countries to ensure continued imports.
Many EU member countries have called for the law to be scaled back or temporarily suspended, as they fear even farmers within the EU may have difficulty meeting all the necessary requirements. The European Commission has indicated openness to discussions with the industry to address concerns about the application of the law. In response to these concerns, JDE Peet’s has started working with local communities in their sourcing regions to better understand their needs and develop more sustainable sourcing practices that align with EU regulations. This includes investing in training programs for local farmers and providing them with access to resources such as fertilizers and irrigation systems that can help improve crop yields while reducing environmental impact.
In addition to working with local communities, JDE Peet’s has also increased its focus on traceability and transparency throughout its supply chain. They have implemented a blockchain system that allows them to track every step of their coffee production process from origin to delivery point. This enables them to identify any potential issues early on and take corrective actions before they become major problems.
As JDE Peet’s continues its work towards compliance with EU regulations, they are committed to finding sustainable solutions that benefit both their business and local communities. By prioritizing environmental responsibility and community engagement, they hope to establish themselves as a leader in ethical sourcing practices within