EUDR Global Forest Cover Map Updated

Companies carrying out due diligence under the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) need to assess whether the land used to produce relevant commodities was subject to deforestation after 31 December 2020. Maps showing where forests stood at that time can help them check production locations against this cut-off date.

The European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) has released Version 4 of its Global Forest Cover map for 2020 (GFC2020). The map provides a reference for these checks by showing the estimated extent of forest cover worldwide in 2020. It can support due diligence, but does not by itself establish whether a product complies with the EUDR.

What has changed?

Version 4 incorporates newer data on forest height, forest management and forest types to improve how forest areas are represented. The most significant changes are in Mesoamerica, the Northern Andes, Brazil’s Cerrado region, Western and Eastern Africa, and Eastern China.

This is an updated view of forest cover in 2020, not a map of current forest conditions. The reference year remains the same; the update refines the information used to identify forest areas at that time.

How can companies use it?

Companies can consult the map when assessing production locations as part of their EUDR due diligence. Competent authorities can also use it to support their checks.

Use of the map is voluntary, and it is not legally binding. Companies and authorities may use other maps or data sources for their assessments. The map should therefore be treated as a supporting resource, rather than proof of compliance.

Version 4 is available through the EU Observatory on deforestation and forest degradation. The data can also be downloaded or used in GIS software and Google Earth Engine.

The JRC is also updating its Global Forest Type map for 2020. A technical report covering both maps is expected in December 2026 or January 2027.

Access the Global Forest Cover map Version 4 and download the data.