A number of everyday items could be dropping off supermarket shelves after the government announced a new initiative.
The move was announced during London Climate Action Week on June 23 and could lead to changes in major supermarkets in the UK such as Asda, Morrison’s, Sainsbury’s and Lidl.
Under the new proposals, UK businesses who trade in commodities sourced from rainforests will need to check that their supply chains are not contributing to illegal deforestation.
Mary Creagh, Nature Minister, said: “Tackling global deforestation is one of the most effective ways we can address climate change and protect some of the world’s most precious and unique wildlife.
“That’s why we are leading by example and scrutinising our own supply chains.
View 2 ImagesEmpty shelves at a UK supermarket(Image: Jeff Moore)
“Eliminating products linked to illegal deforestation not only helps to protect precious ecosystems but is good for our collective resilience and long-term prosperity.”
The move would affect products that use commodities such as:
- Soy
- Oil
- Cocoa
- Rubber
These products are commonly found in everyday supermarket products including chocolate, cooking oils, shampoo and cosmetics – and may mean certain items dropping off our shelves.
In 2023, the UK’s consumption of these goods was associated with approximately 29,000 hectares of deforestation worldwide – around one and a half times the size of Manchester – and 9.4 million tonnes of related carbon emissions.
Andrew Opie, director of food and sustainability at the British Retail Consortium (BRC), said: “Retailers welcome today’s announcement.
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“We have long called for UK deforestation regulation as an important step in driving forest conservation across retail supply chains in line with business commitments, while supporting alignment with the EU where possible to avoid unnecessary costs and complexity for retailers and their customers.
“However, with the EU regulation due to take effect in Northern Ireland at the end of the year, it’s important that the government takes a pragmatic approach to enforcement to minimise disruption for businesses and consumers.”