Official publication of Deforestation Regulation postponement
On 23 December, the regulation postponing the Deforestation Regulation was published in the Official Journal of the EU. The regulation will be applicable from 30 December 2025 for large companies and from 30 June 2026 for micro- and small enterprises. In 2024, the EC published guidance documents and an international cooperation framework on the Deforestation Regulation.
Official publication of the Forced Labour Regulation
On 12 December, the Forced Labour Regulation was published in the Official Journal of the EU. The Regulation bans products made with forced labour from being placed or made available on the EU market, and from being exported to third countries. It shall apply directly in all EU member states to companies from 14 December 2027.
Official publication of EU framework for carbon removal certification
On 6 December, the Carbon Removals and Carbon Farming (CRCF) Regulation was published in the Official Journal of the EU. This voluntary framework sets four criteria for EU certification of carbon removal activities. They must (i) result in a quantified net carbon removal or soil reduction benefit; (ii) be additional, meaning they exceed statutory requirements and have a financially viable incentive effect; (iii) aim to ensure long-term storage of carbon while minimising the risk of carbon release; (iv) do no significant harm to the environment and potentially co-benefit other sustainability goals. It shall apply directly in all EU member states from 26 December 2024.
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ESG governance & transition updates in 2024
See our overview of ESG governance & transition updates in 2024
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ESG governance & transition updates in 2023
See our overview of ESG governance & transition updates in 2023