European Commission considers removing leather from EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR)

Source:Mongabay

02 — Who / Subject

European Commission, Leather Industry Associations (UNIC, COTANCE)

03 — Where / Locus

Brussels, European Union

04 — When / Temporality

May 28, 2026

Verified: May 28, 2026

05 — Why / Core Summary

"The European Commission is proposing to remove leather, hides, and skins from the EUDR. Research indicates leather is linked to significant deforestation, but the Commission cites 'low economic value' and traceability challenges. The proposal faces criticism from NGOs and some MEPs, while the leather industry lobbies for the exemption."

Conflict Analysis

The proposal to exempt leather from the EUDR is a significant political shift that pits industry economic interests against environmental sustainability goals. The reliance on industry-funded reports over peer-reviewed science is a point of contention.

Recommended Background Resource

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The Meat Paradox: Living, Loving, and Eating Animals

Author: Rob Percival

This book provides a deep dive into the complex relationship between global livestock industries, environmental impact, and the ethical dilemmas of animal products, which is central to the debate surrounding EUDR and the leather supply chain.

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