Illegal logging also destroy forests globally, putting at risk unique wildlife and habitats. It increases emissions and depletes natural resources. It also undermines local development and legitimate businesses.

The EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) entered into force in 2013, and aims to counter illegal logging and associated trade in timber and timber products in the EU, and contribute to sustainable forest management.
In 2016 European Commission carried out a review of the EUTR, showing the need for more action from the Member States and the private sector to make sure EUTR is put in action. 

 

What WWF is doing?

WWF wants to strengthen the enforcement and implementation of EUTR, in order to ensure that illegally logged timber and timber products are no longer sold on the European market.

Loopholes in the EUTR and implementation gaps at Member State level have hindered a real change in practice. WWF is partnering with INTERPOL in an innovative project aimed at boosting law enforcement and investigations to detect forest crime and respond to it.

In the context of the ongoing EUTR review, WWF is advocating for the regulation to include all timber products, including musical instruments, printed materials, seating and charcoal.