The EU regulation for deforestation-free products (EUDR) starting from December 30, 2024, has implications for small-scale producers in supply chains. In a new policy paper by Germanwatch e.V., Katharina Brandt, Matilda Franz, and Pia Enders provide recommendations on how the EU and companies can support small-scale producers to produce deforestation-free while ensuring their livelihoods. The focus is on implementing higher sustainability standards and traceability in supply chains to prevent deforestation and protect small-scale producers.

Agriculture in the EU is responsible for around 13% of greenhouse gas emissions. Agriculture and food consumption are the biggest contributors to biodiversity loss, environmental degradation and diet-related diseases. This report is intended to serve as an inspiration and framework for stakeholders in Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs) to develop a more holistic and coordinated approach to the transition to climate-friendly and resilient agricultural and food systems.

The green transition is not just about expanding sustainability, it also creates an enormous demand for skilled workers. In this policy paper, Sam Huckstep and Helen Dempster examine the demand and supply dynamics of skills crucial to the green transition in both the Global South and North. Focusing on the installation and maintenance workforce in solar photovoltaic panels and heat pumps, their findings reveal a critical shortage of skilled workers in almost all ten countries studied. Particularly challenging is the scenario in the Global North, compelled to accelerate emission cuts amidst aging populations. To meet green transition targets, migration emerges as a vital complement to local training and reskilling efforts. While the global shortage of green-skilled workers must be recognized, the authors emphasize that such a skills-based migration strategy must be coupled with robust support for training and retaining talents locally.