Take a moment to recognise the lenses shaping the way you see things
How might regulations aimed at reducing deforestation influence global supply chains and sustainability, and what unintended consequences could they create for ecosystems and livelihoods?

It is important to reflect on the above question because trade regulations, such as the EUDR, can have complex effects beyond the EU. Being aware of this perspective helps identify risks such as deforestation, relocation, changes in commodity trade, and impacts on farmers’ livelihoods in producer countries. Taking a moment to reflect on this lets us use the tool more thoughtfully, seeing both how it can support sustainability and where it might cause unintended social, economic, or environmental problems in cocoa supply chains.

What you will achieve with this tool?

Evaluate the environmental, economic, and social impacts of EUDR on cocoa supply chains to identify opportunities for sustainable and equitable outcomes.

Explore how to take action

Remember, this is an inspiration guide (not a recipe) to help you decide what will be most transformative for your context. Every context is unique!

1
STEP 1 Prepare the context and gather baseline data Read more
2
STEP 2 Map incentives and disincentives Read more
3
STEP 3 Identify risks of spillover effects Read more
4
STEP 4 Evaluate impacts on livelihoods Read more
5
STEP 5 Analyze market and trade dynamics Read more
6
STEP 6 Reflect on assumptions Read more
7
STEP 7 Co-design interventions Read more

With whom and for whom are you transforming?

With and for Cocoa farmers and producer communities
Local governments and trade authorities
EU regulators and compliance bodies
Civil society organisations
Private actors

Which power dynamics might hinder local communities from caring for ecosystems?

How might unintended consequences of trade regulations affect equity and justice in producer countries, and what mechanisms can prevent harm while promoting sustainability?


By identifying and addressing unintended consequences, this tool promotes sustainability regulations like EUDR do not undermine livelihoods or shift environmental harm elsewhere. It promotes systemic thinking, safeguards equity, and helps design interventions that align trade rules with biodiversity protection and climate goals.

Bulgaria

References

Mensah Cobbinah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mensah-tawiah-cobbinah-0546b3b4/?locale=en_US 

Cobbinah & Alpizar. Impacts of the EU Deforestation Regulation on Cocoa-Linked Deforestation and Supply Chain Risks in Ghana (Unpublished)