Tuesday, June 18, 2024
Forest certification assures companies and consumers that the wood raw materials used in engineered wood products, such as LVL (laminated veneer lumber) and plywood, come from forests that are sustainably managed.
Forest certification schemes are voluntary third-party programs that verify the sustainability and wellbeing of forests, ensuring the legality and traceability of wood’s origin. These certifications also prioritize fair working conditions for forest workers, the recreational use of forests, and the protection of indigenous peoples’ rights. Globally, only about 10% of forests are certified, whereas Finland boasts approximately 90% certification and Sweden over 60%.
What is a chain of custody?
The certification process has two main parts: forest certification and certification of the chain of custody. The chain of custody system makes it possible to trace and document the flow of wood raw material and the products made from it throughout the supply chain. With a chain of custody certificate, a producer can prove that the wood raw material used in its products comes from certified or controlled forests.
To apply a forest certification label to wood products, producers must use certified wood raw materials and maintain an unbroken chain of custody from the forest to the final product. Chain of custody certification for wood products ensures that only certified or controlled wood is utilised; using wood from unknown sources is strictly prohibited.
What are the leading forest certification schemes?
The two most common forest certification systems are the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC/02-31-03) and the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC® C014476); forest certification schemes ensure sustainable and responsible forest management and help conserve biodiversity and preserve the valuable habitats and biotopes. Globally, PEFC-certified forests cover 290 million hectares while FSC-certified forests cover 160 million hectares (H1/2023).
Forest certification aims to promote sustainable and responsible forest management practices while protecting the habitats of plants and animals. These certifications also emphasize the importance of respecting the rights of local communities and forestry workers. Certification schemes uphold credible, independently verified standards that ensure sustainable and responsible management of forests.
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