Despite Sanctions, Illegal Russian Birch wood Flows Into Europe
A recent investigation by Earthsight, a British NGO specializing in environmental and social crime, reveals a disturbing trend: despite EU sanctions imposed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, illegal Russian birch wood continues to flood European markets.
Earthsight’s nine-month undercover investigation, dubbed “Blood-Stained Birch,” exposed a complex network involving merchants, exporters, and unwitting buyers. Posing as wood buyers, investigators uncovered evidence of widespread deception, with Russian birch plywood, increasingly popular in interior design, being disguised as wood originating from countries like Kazakhstan, China, and Türkiye.
According to Earthsight, teh equivalent of 20 truckloads of birch wood illegally enters Europe daily, amounting to an estimated 1.5 billion euros worth of plywood crossing borders since July 2022.These sanctions, targeting Russian wood, furniture, and paper products, appear to be easily circumvented.
While Kazakhstan, for instance, had previously not exported birch plywood to Europe, it has become a major supplier since the sanctions took effect. Earthsight’s findings suggest that exporters are exploiting loopholes, relying on third-party countries to launder their products.
Shockingly, several companies involved in this illicit trade, including major players supplying climbing walls and luxury hotel coatings, appear aware of the sanctions violations. Earthsight argues that these companies, despite claiming to source wood from legitimate suppliers, demonstrate a lack of due diligence regarding their supply chains.Adding further complexity, Alain Karsenty, an expert at the Center for International Cooperation in Agronomic Research for Progress (Cirad), points out that even if Russian wood technically enters the EU legally, it should adhere to the EU’s Timber Regulation, adopted in 2013. This regulation requires importers to assess risks associated with illegal logging and unsustainable practices.However, Karsenty notes that this regulation is often bypassed due to inadequate controls and inconsistent enforcement across EU member states.
Furthermore, the investigation reveals that one prominent Russian company involved in this trade is headed by alexei Mordashov, an oligarch sanctioned by the EU.
While the EU’s upcoming regulation against deforestation and forest degradation (RDUE) promises stricter controls on wood imports, Karsenty warns that enforcement challenges remain. Lack of resources, political will, and reliance on independent certifications further complicate efforts to curb illegal Russian wood imports.
Time.news Editor: The recent Earthsight report shines a light on a disturbing trend – illegal Russian birch wood continues to flow into Europe despite EU sanctions. alain,can you shed some light on this complex issue for our readers?
Alain Karsenty: It’s a concerning situation indeed. Earthsight’s investigation, “Blood-Stained Birch,” revealed a well-established network using deceptive practices to bypass sanctions. Russian birch plywood, highly valued for interior design, is being mislabeled as originating from countries like Kazakhstan, China, and Türkiye.
Time.news Editor: So, Russian companies are effectively “laundering” their products?
Alain Karsenty: exactly.They’re exploiting loopholes by relying on third-party countries to disguise the true origin of the wood. This underscores the vulnerability of existing legal frameworks and the need for tighter controls.
Time.news Editor: Earthsight estimates that 20 truckloads of illegal birch wood enter Europe daily, amounting to over €1.5 billion since July 2022.What are the broader implications of this?
Alain Karsenty: This illicit trade has multiple ramifications. Firstly, it undermines the effectiveness of EU sanctions against Russia, hindering efforts to pressure their government. Secondly, it perpetuates unsustainable logging practices, perhaps endangering crucial forests and biodiversity. it raises ethical concerns about companies knowingly participating in this illegal scheme.
Time.news Editor: Earthsight pointed out that several European companies are allegedly aware of these violations yet continue sourcing wood from these sanctioned entities. What can be done to address this?
Alain Karsenty: This highlights a critical issue of due diligence within supply chains. Companies need to go beyond simply relying on supplier claims.they must conduct thorough risk assessments, verify documentation, and employ self-reliant audits to ensure the legality and sustainability of their sourced wood.
Time.news Editor: The EU’s upcoming regulation against deforestation and forest degradation (RDUE) aims to address this. How effective will it be?
Alain Karsenty: The RDUE is a positive step, aiming to strengthen controls on wood imports. Though, its success hinges on effective enforcement. This requires adequate resources, political will, and consistent implementation across all EU member states. Additionally, relying solely on independent certifications can be problematic, as these systems are not always foolproof.
Time.news Editor: what advice would you give our readers, particularly those involved in the construction or furniture industries, on ensuring their sourcing practices are enduring and compliant?
Alain Karsenty: Be proactive! Don’t simply accept supplier assurances at face value. Conduct due diligence, ask detailed questions, and demand openness throughout the supply chain. Seek out certified sustainable wood sources and stay informed about evolving regulations and industry best practices. Remember, consumers are also empowered to make responsible choices by choosing sustainably sourced wood products.