Foresting Tomorrow #36 | EUDR delays, digital failures, and forest traceability dreams

We’re back with a deep dive into one of the most talked-about topics in forestry right now: the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) - and its second major delay. In this episode, we untangle the ambitions, technical hurdles, and industry frustrations surrounding what was meant to be a global benchmark for traceability and legality in forest-related products.

We explore what EUDR actually demands, how it differs from the older EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), and why the much-hyped TRACES system - designed to handle it all - is failing to deliver. With unclear documentation, legacy tech (SOAP APIs, anyone?), and a proposed one-year delay, we discuss whether this is just growing pains or a signal of deeper dysfunction.

Also in this episode:

• What deforestation vs. degradation really means in EUDR terms
• Why traceability through the value chain is so complex - especially for timber products
• Whether Denmark (and other low-risk countries) should be exempt
• What role FSC/PEFC certification might play as a workaround or stepping stone
• How public IT projects keep repeating the same costly mistakes

We wrap up with ideas on what can be done now - despite the uncertainty - and question whether Denmark should lean into its strengths to lead by example, rather than opt out.

Foresting Tomorrow is a weekly podcast hosted by Jens Isbak, Rasmus Pedersen, and Benjamin Lauridsen.