Is the UK Fueling Deforestation? MP Demands Action on Imports

Concerns over UK supply chains as new analysis reveals scale of destruction

Anna Gelderd MP has urged the Government to take action to prevent the import of commodities linked to illegal deforestation, following new findings that reveal the UK’s supply chains are contributing to global forest loss.

Speaking during the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) oral questions today (20th March), Anna called on ministers to introduce measures to curb the UK’s deforestation footprint ahead of International Day of Forests tomorrow (21st March).

Shocking Scale of UK’s Deforestation Impact

New analysis from Global Witness has revealed that goods imported into the UK over the past year have led to the destruction of forests equivalent in size to Cardiff. The report further estimates that between November 2021 and December 2024, UK imports of commodities such as beef, soy, and palm oil were responsible for deforesting an area equal to one-tenth of Cornwall.

Anna, who co-chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Global Deforestation, warned that the UK risks falling behind on tackling a crisis that affects both the environment and British businesses.

“I am deeply concerned about the scale of deforestation linked to UK imports,” she said. “The revelation that our supply chains have contributed to the destruction of forests on such a massive scale not only undermines our environmental commitments but also risks the UK falling behind on the global stage on a vital issue which causes uncertainty for British businesses who need clarity and for British consumers who want to do the right thing.”

Read the Global Witness report

Impact on South East Cornwall

Anna also highlighted the consequences of deforestation for communities in South East Cornwall, stressing that climate change threatens key local industries.

“South East Cornwall is bolstered by our brilliant and hardworking farming and fishing communities. Deforestation will accelerate climate change, which will have a direct consequence for our farmers, fishers, and tourism sector.

“Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather patterns, and biodiversity loss threaten the livelihoods that so many in our communities rely on. While deforestation may seem like a distant issue, its effects are felt right here.”

Anna has pledged to continue pushing the Government to ensure UK imports do not contribute to illegal deforestation and to uphold the country’s environmental responsibilities.