The packaging sector is poised for significant changes by the end of 2025 with the implementation of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). This legislation mandates that anyone utilizing wood, paper, or leather in packaging must provide comprehensive proof of origin, including the GPS coordinates of the trees sourced. This upcoming regulation has sparked considerable activity within the industry. While many manufacturers are still formulating solutions, hardwood specialist Danzer has already positioned itself to comply effectively.
Aspects such as recyclability, circular design, and adherence to compliance regulations like the PPWR (Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation) remain focal points for luxury brands. However, the lesser-known EUDR is set to redefine sourcing practices in packaging. Effective December 30, 2025, a stringent set of rules will apply to all products sold in the EU market that contain wood, paper, leather, or other materials derived from forests. International hardwood leader Danzer, sourcing from the temperate forests of the northern hemisphere, is substantially prepared to meet these new guidelines.
Danzer Meets All Requirements
“We have been preparing for this intensively for years,” explains Cathy-Lynn Danzer, Head of Sustainability and Compliance at Danzer. As a leading provider of hardwood products globally, Danzer guarantees that all wood processed comes with complete geolocation data and risk documentation, which is submitted to the EU compliance database. This ensures that our clients—and their consumers—can be assured of compliance without sacrificing design or quality. Under the new regulations, all products on the EU market must be deforestation-free and meticulously traceable back to their origin, including GPS coordinates. Here, “deforestation-free” stipulates that no large-scale forest clearing occurred for wood harvesting, nor were forests converted for alternative uses as a consequence.
Incomplete Documentation Poses Compliance Risks
This regulation impacts not only raw materials but also finished luxury packaging items. This includes wooden presentation boxes, veneer components, and paper-based materials frequently employed in sectors like perfume, spirits, jewelry, and high-end gifting. “Luxury brands have made enormous progress in terms of sustainability—but there is a blind spot here,” asserts Gertraud Storz, sales expert for luxury packaging at Danzer. “Even well-designed, responsibly produced packaging poses a compliance risk if the material’s origin isn’t properly documented.” Drawing from its extensive experience, the Danzer team recognizes that many suppliers and packaging manufacturers are not adequately equipped to meet the traceability requirements mandated by the EUDR.
Urgent Need for Action
“For luxury brands, sourcing traceable materials is not only a legal obligation—it is also an essential brand statement,” emphasizes Cathy-Lynn Danzer. “Brands that take proactive measures can turn compliance into a competitive advantage.” Notably, any packaging incorporating wood, paper, or leather falls under the EUDR’s scope. Consequently, executives and procurement managers must ask their wood- and paper-based packaging suppliers the following crucial questions:
- Can you provide the exact geocoordinates for each wood-based component?
- Is there a due diligence system in place for assessing deforestation risks?
- Will complete EUDR documentation for the materials used be available by December 2025?
If any of these questions receive a “no” response, action is undoubtedly required. It’s worth noting that hardwood specialist Danzer already fulfills all mandatory requirements arising from the new EU regulation, instilling confidence as the compliance deadline approaches on December 30, 2025.
Discover More About the EUDR at Danzer: https://www.danzer.com/en/company/corporate-responsibility/faq-about-eudr
