Strengthening the system through innovation
We work to accelerate the uptake of forest certification globally through the innovation of our standards and requirements. In 2022, a new standard and two guidance documents were in the centre of our work.
Strengthening the system through innovation
18 May 2023 Annual Review
We work to accelerate the uptake of forest certification globally through the innovation of our standards and requirements. In 2022, a new standard and two guidance documents were in the centre of our work.
A new guidance and standard
In 2022 we published the revised GD 2001, Chain of Custody of Forest and Tree Based Products and Related Standards – Guidance for Use.
The guidance document provides information for the implementation of the requirements in all three chain of custody related standards.
It is easy to navigate and concentrates any additional information issued by PEFC for the implementation of these three standards in one single document.
It also intends to be our first “living document”, updated regularly, for example, when new clarification and interpretations are issued.
A new standard, ST 1004 Requirements for Certification Bodies operating Certification, went for public consultation at the end of 2022. It sets the requirements for certification bodies carrying out PEFC forest management certification.
A hybrid between a Benchmark and International standard, it includes benchmark requirements to be further developed at national level, respecting our precious bottom-up approach.
At the same time, it includes requirements that certification bodies shall directly implement, helping to harmonise the operation of PEFC certification worldwide.
Complying with the EU's revised Renewable Energy Directive (RED II)
PEFC has applied to the European Commission to be recognised as a sustainability certification under the European Union’s (EU) RED II.
The Directive establishes sustainability requirements for forestry feedstocks and greenhouse gas criteria for biomass fuels that companies in the energy sector must comply with to be eligible for financial support by public authorities.
PEFC’s recognition scope covers forest- and tree-based material, including recycled material and biomass fuels made of this material. To align with RED II, we are developing a technical document, GD 2002, Interpretations and supplements to PEFC standards.
The document can be implemented by chain of custody certificate holders wishing to extend the scope of their certification to show compliance with RED II requirements.
Better together – new developments and partnerships
We work to establish new partnerships and strong regional collaboration between our members and partners. 2022 saw innovation in Central Africa and new collaborations in Southeast Europe
A sustainable first in the Congo Basin
The regional system for the Congo Basin is driving innovation within PEFC.
It is the first forest management system to include requirements related to the mapping of the carbon stock in a forest, and assessments of greenhouse gas emissions linked to forestry operations.
Born during the standard development process, the innovative requirements are a response to the new expectations that companies and forest owners are facing.
Forestry and environment consulting firm TEREA, supported by PEFC and the PPECF (Programme de Promotion de l’Exploitation Certifiée des Forêts), developed a methodology to map the carbon stock in a forest and an audit tool for greenhouse gas emissions, to help forestry companies meet the two requirements.
The regional system was developed by our members PAFC-Congo, PAFC Cameroon and PAFC Gabon under the lead of our international stakeholder member ATIBT, cooperating on the development of the PAFC Congo Basin certification system.
Our work in the Congo Basin was also the focus of our presentations at the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 27) in Egypt.
PEFC International and PAFC Gabon highlighted the potential of sustainable forest management for sustainable development and the mitigation of climate change in the Congo Basin and beyond.
Regional collaborations on the rise In 2022, another regional system achieved PEFC certification: the Balkan Forest Certification Scheme.
Our national members for Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, and Slovenia developed the system together, sharing resources and knowledge, and maximising their visibility in the region.
The PEFC national member for Bulgaria and future member for Croatia have declared their interest in joining the regional system.