Deforestation is a global problem. Despite multiple treaties and agreements, deforestation has not stopped and is increasing. The driving force behind tropical deforestation is the cultivation of commodity crops. 

These are crops that are central to people’s lives, providing everything from animal feed to tyres to chocolate bars and a morning coffee. But they are also behind the destruction of forests, which drives biodiversity loss and climate change.

The challenge of deforestation involves a significant human factor, not least the role of smallholders in commodity supply chains and how any regulatory changes will impact them and their communities. Deforestation is a question of land rights, gender rights, the loss of people’s homes, cultures and livelihoods.