Illegal logging not only contributes to deforestation but also leads to crime, corruption, money laundering, and human rights violations in source countries. European timber regulations have prohibited imports of illegally logged timber since March 2013, but Belgium’s imports of tropical sawn timber from non-EU countries have more than doubled over the past decade. In fact, last year, they amounted to over 234,000 tonnes, which makes up almost half of the total EU imports. The majority of this timber (80%) is destined for other EU member states, and it primarily comes from high-risk countries like Cameroon, Gabon, and Brazil. Two inspectors from the Federal Public Service Environment are responsible for monitoring the 4,500 wood importers operating in Belgium.
In addition to deforestation, illegal logging is also a source of crime, corruption, money laundering and human rights violations in countries of origin.
Since March 2013, imports of illegally logged timber have therefore been prohibited by European timber regulations. However, over the past decade, Belgian imports of tropical sawn timber from non-EU countries have more than doubled. Last year, they amounted to more than 234,000 tonnes, almost half of total EU imports, writes De Tijd. The vast majority, 80%, transits to other EU Member States.
The wood comes mainly from three countries: Cameroon, Gabon and Brazil. These are high risk countries for illegally logged timber and corruption in the timber sector. The Federal Public Service Environment employs two inspectors responsible for controlling the 4,500 importers of wood active in our country.
It is clear that the issue of illegal logging is not only detrimental to the environment, but also to society as a whole. Money laundering, corruption, and human rights violations are just a few of the many issues that arise from this illegal activity. While European timber regulations have prohibited the import of illegally logged timber since 2013, the amount of tropical sawn timber imported to Belgium has more than doubled in the past decade. It is crucial for governments and individuals to take action in preventing and stopping illegal logging, not only for the preservation of our planet but also for the welfare of communities and people affected by this criminal activity.