UK imports linked to deforestation the size of Bristol every year
New data reveals UK’s impact and opportunities for stronger deforestation policies
Oxford, United Kingdom (22 July 2026) – The UK remains significantly exposed to global deforestation through its imports of agricultural commodities, with Brazil accounting for nearly half of that risk, according to a new factsheet released by Trase.
The analysis shows that 44.5% of the UK’s deforestation exposure is linked to imports from Brazil, primarily driven by cattle products. Overall, Brazilian cattle alone account for around 40% of the UK’s direct trade-related deforestation exposure, underscoring the importance of addressing supply chains linked to beef.
Between 2021 and 2023, the UK’s average annual deforestation exposure from directly imported agricultural commodities, including beef, cocoa and soy, was estimated at 10,800 hectares - almost the size of Bristol. Compared with EU27 countries [1], the UK ranks sixth, between Germany and France, highlighting its continued role as a major consumer market linked to forest loss.
“The UK government is set to consult on new powers under the Environment Act that would target illegal deforestation, and has signalled a willingness also to increase ambition and to align more closely with similar EU standards. With the commitment from the new UK Prime Minister to be bold and deliver on Labour's Manifesto promises for nature, this factsheet outlines where decisive action can be taken,” said Chris West, Trase co-director.
Brazil (45%) and Côte d’Ivoire (26%) were identified as the UK’s most significant source countries for deforestation exposure. By commodity, cattle products (40%) and cocoa (26%) were the largest contributors, followed by soy (9%).
“In a moment when the UK considers strengthening its approach to tackling imported deforestation, the fact sheet demonstrates the potential impact of targeted action in high-risk supply chains - with beef and cocoa as clear priorities,” said Mark Titley, Trase researcher who led the analysis.
Download the fact sheet here: https://resources.trase.earth/documents/Factsheets/2026/united_kingdom.pdf
For further information, contact:
Gisele Neuls, Trase Communications Lead at Global Canopy | g.souzaneuls@globalcanopy.org | +44(0)7925 128 159
Note to editor
[1] Trase has published fact sheets for each of the EU countries. Available at https://trase.earth/factsheets
About Trase
Trase is a data-driven transparency initiative led by Global Canopy and Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI). We map international trade in agricultural commodities and provide open-access data, insights, and tools that help companies, financial institutions, and governments strengthen accountability for their sustainability goals. www.trase.earth
