The AFi recommends a target date no later than 2025 to eliminate deforestation and conversion in supply chains

The Accountability Framework initiative (AFi) has adopted a consensus recommendation that companies set a target date for eliminating deforestation and ecosystem conversion from their supply chains no later than 2025. This decision reflects the urgent need for action to avoid forest and biodiversity loss and reduce emissions in support of the Paris Agreement.

This recommendation elaborates upon the Accountability Framework’s  Core Principle 3 (‘Specification of commitments’) as follows:

Consensus to support aligned action

The AFi’s recommendation reinforces and amplifies positions being taken by major companies and other leaders to end deforestation and achieve net zero emissions from supply chains as early as possible.

A joint report released this month by the AFi and CDP found that 75% of company-wide no-deforestation/no-conversion commitments disclosed by companies in 2021 had target dates of 2025 or earlier.

Key multi-stakeholder processes have also converged around 2025 (or sooner) as an appropriate level of ambition:

The AFi’s recommendation solidifies the consensus around 2025 and provides a clear benchmark for companies to set targets in line with expectations of their business partners, financiers, and other stakeholders.

Why 2025?

The AFi’s recommendation is grounded in scientific evidence about the climate and biodiversity crises and also considers practical timelines for action:

Next steps

As companies respond to evolving mandates to address issues of climate, nature, and human wellbeing in their supply chains, the AFi will continue to support them with consensus-based guidance on setting goals, taking action, and reporting progress. Learn more about how the AFi can support your organization in establishing and fulfilling ambitious no-deforestation and no-conversion goals.

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