Project objective
The aim of the project was to raise awareness of the EUTR and its requirements amongst timber sector businesses in EU member states and neighbouring timber exporting countries.
Project approach
Focussing strongly on business solutions, the events supported companies in timber-exporting countries as well as Eastern European EU member states to exclude illegal timber from their supply chains.
The events helped answer quesions such as, what do the key due diligence requirements for risk assessment, risk mitigation and access to information entail at the operational level? How can companies minimise their risk of sourcing illegal timber and being in breach of the regulation? What is the role of certification schemes under the EUTR?
Inspiring business cases and due diligence tools such as the ETTF’s due diligence system were presented at each event. Speakers included experts from Preferred by Nature and ETTF as well as local and international industry representatives.
Results and impact
All seminars were well-attended, mainly by companies importing or exporting timber products to the EU. In addition, the seminars attracted forest managers, public sector officials, NGOs, and media. The audiences showed a high level of interest and engagements which led to lively discussions. Follow-up surveys revealed that delegates found the events very fruitful.