The fifth version of the European Soy Monitor shows a slight decrease in the uptake of certified soy. 40% of soy consumed in the European Union, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom (EU27+) is either certified in the physical chain or covered by sustainability certificates compliant with the FEFAC Soy Sourcing Guidelines.
The European Soy Monitor was introduced by IUCN NL and IDH to assess the uptake of certified soy in the European Union and in individual countries. All years ever since, IDH supported the creation of the European Soy Monitor. This year is the first time the report is financed by a coalition of seven partners. These partners are IDH, IUCN NL, RTRS, ProTerra Foundation, Donau Soja, FEFAC and FEDIOL. The partners value the continuity of the publication. Since the same methodology is used, progress over time can be demonstrated.
An important conclusion of the report is that companies in European countries have consistently invested in sustainable soy, and that watering this ambition and commitment down to legal compliance and tackling deforestation alone, would be a step backwards. The report sends the message that a combination of different instruments is needed to address deforestation and conversion of natural ecosystems and to promote sustainable production of soy.