In two years the EU will begin a ban on importing illegal timber products, reports the BBC. The ban will require companies to have proof that their products do not come from illegally logged sources.
The EU has been debating the issue for the past two years, but recently arrived at a provisional agreement. The deal will affect most timber products in 2012 including floors and furniture, but printed materials, such as books, will have until 2017 to comply.
The US has already moved forward with such a ban. Under an amendment of the Lacey Act in 2008, the US has made it illegal for companies to possess or sell illegal timber products.
Members of European Parliament (MEPs) will vote on the issue in July; it is expected to pass.
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