An EUDR Source is defined under the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) as the origin of goods or raw materials that comply with measures to prevent deforestation and forest degradation.1 This regulation targets commodities like palm oil, soy and timber, ensuring they are produced in an environmentally responsible manner.2 For forest product companies, a Source includes land ownership information and harvest worksite boundaries that define where the wood originates before it is placed on the European market.
Why EUDR Sources are important:
Environmental protection: Helps preserve forests, crucial for biodiversity and climate regulation.
Regulatory compliance: Ensures companies avoid legal penalties and maintain market access in the EU.
Market reputation: Enhances company reputation among environmentally conscious consumers and partners.
Supply chain integrity: Promotes transparency and traceability, improving risk management.
Global sustainability: Supports international efforts to combat deforestation and promote sustainable practices.
EUDR Source requirements:
Geolocation information: The source must include precise geolocation data. For areas larger than 4 hectares, this data should be in the form of polygons, and for areas smaller than 4 hectares, points can be used. This allows for accurate mapping and management of the geographical location of sources.
Product details: Information about the products being sourced, including type, quantity and any relevant product identifiers, must be provided. This ensures that the products can be accurately tracked from their point of origin.
Compliance certifications: Any certifications or documentation that verify the source’s compliance with relevant environmental, social or legal standards should be included. This is crucial for demonstrating adherence to regulations like the EUDR.
Company and contact information: Details about the company owning or managing the source, including contact name, address, phone number and email, are required. This ensures that there is a clear point of contact for any queries or verification processes.
Harvest and production duration: Information on the duration of harvest and production activities at the source should be provided. This helps in assessing the sustainability and environmental impact of the sourcing practices.
Source identifier: A unique identifier for the source (Source ID) is necessary for easy reference and tracking within systems managing source information.
1. Official EUDR document, Article 2, Definitions, #7, Forest Degradation means structural changes to forest cover, taking the form of the conversion of: (a) primary forests or naturally regenerating forests into plantation forests or into other wooded land; or (b) primary forests into planted forests.
2. Official EUDR document, Chapter 1, General Provisions, Article 1, Subject matter and scope. #1
