EUDR Compliance and the Role of Data in Deforestation-Free Supply Chains

In this episode of Earth Central Podcast Matthew Nelson CEO of arivu unpacks the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR).
Moving beyond basic compliance, Matthew delves into how the EUDR is reshaping global trade by requiring companies importing into Europe to provide verifiable, conclusive evidence of deforestation-free and legally compliant production.
Matthew also highlights the ripple effects EUDR is already having, from supply chain disruptions, to the growing importance of technologies such as satellite analytics and geolocation data.
The conversation also covers the reasons behind the delay in EUDR implementation, with Matthew explaining how early adopters have successfully future-proofed their businesses by investing in compliance ahead of time.
Key Takeaways:
1. EUDR’s Legal Compliance Requirements: Listeners will gain a thorough understanding of how the EUDR requires businesses to ensure local law compliance and provide verifiable evidence of deforestation-free supply chains across all commodities, not just certified products.
2. Delays in EUDR Implementation and Pushback: Matthew discusses the reasons behind the delayed rollout of the EUDR, including the challenges and pushback from industry stakeholders, while also showcasing how early adopters have successfully positioned themselves for long-term sustainability.
3. Data Sharing and Privacy in Compliance: Listeners will learn how the EUDR’s data retention requirements are reshaping how businesses manage data privacy, transparency, and integration across their supply chains.
4. Supply Chain Disruptions and Market Shifts: The episode highlights how lack of transparency at the producer level is already causing significant supply chain disruptions, particularly in vulnerable commodity markets, such as Ethiopian coffee.
5. The Role of Satellite Analytics in EUDR Compliance: Listeners will discover how technologies, like satellite analytics and geolocation data, are essential tools for businesses to verify production locations and meet deforestation-free regulations.
6. Unintended Consequences of EUDR: Matthew explores the broader consequences of EUDR, including market shifts, price differentials, and how businesses can turn these challenges into opportunities for community engagement and impact storytelling.