Europe wants chocolate but without deforestation

29-12-24

The chocolate industry, valued at approximately EUR 45 billion in Europe, relies heavily on imported cocoa, mainly from West Africa. However, this demand has driven deforestation in tropical regions, negatively affecting the environment.

To combat this problem, the European Union has implemented regulations banning the import of agricultural products, including cocoa, from deforested areas after 2020. This measure seeks to promote sustainable agricultural practices and protect tropical forests.

In Latin America, countries such as the Dominican Republic and Ecuador have adopted these regulations, supported by non-governmental organizations such as Codespa. These initiatives encourage cocoa production without resorting to deforestation, promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly agricultural techniques.