Experts Discuss Geospatial Data for EU Deforestation Rules
A recent workshop in Barcelona focused on improving data reliability for the European Union Deforestation Regulation.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Geography
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The European Forest Institute hosted a technical workshop on 14-15 October 2026 to address geospatial data challenges for the EU Deforestation Regulation. Participants worked to reconcile conflicting land-use maps that currently complicate due diligence efforts.
Why it matters
Discrepancies between existing land-use maps hinder the accuracy of environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance. Establishing standardized geospatial data is essential to effectively support the Team Europe Initiative on Deforestation-free Value Chains.
The workshop examined the data landscape across diverse national institutions to address inconsistencies in map definitions and analysis periods. Attendees focused on aligning data reliability standards for the EU Deforestation Regulation.
The players
European Forest Institute
This international organization conducts research and provides policy support on forest-related issues throughout Europe.
Joint Research Centre
Known as the JRC, this is the European Commission's science and knowledge service that provides independent scientific evidence.
Food and Agriculture Organization
The FAO is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve food security.
The details
Representatives from organizations including the JRC, FAO, GIZ, and CIAT met with authorities from Germany, Spain, and five partner nations to harmonize data strategies. The group analyzed the specific limitations of current datasets to improve collaborative reporting between governments, private companies, and research entities.
Timeline
The technical workshop on geospatial data occurred on 14-15 October 2026.
The Big Picture
This workshop aligns its technical objectives with the compliance requirements mandated by the EU Deforestation Regulation. It marks a critical effort to bridge current geospatial data gaps, which are essential for the effective implementation and enforcement of the regulation.
Improved geospatial accuracy could lead to more reliable supply chain verification and environmental reporting for global commodities. Standardized data will likely streamline the due diligence process for companies and authorities operating under EU regulations.
The takeaway
Resolving data conflicts is a vital step toward creating transparent and accountable global value chains. Stakeholders should focus on unifying datasets to ensure environmental regulations are applied consistently across borders.
Further reading
Learn more about international mapping efforts in our Geography section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by European Forest Institute.
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