Standard Owner Benchmark - Responsible Wood

Responsible Wood is an Australian non-profit organization that operates a certification scheme for sustainable and responsible forest management. It was established in 2011 and is based in Australia.

Responsible Wood is the Australian member of the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), an international organization that promotes sustainable forest management worldwide. The organization provides certification services to forest managers and forest product companies in Australia, ensuring that they meet rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards.

The certification scheme offered by Responsible Wood is known as the Responsible Wood Certification Scheme. It provides independent verification that forests and forest products are responsibly managed according to recognized international standards. This includes criteria related to biodiversity conservation, protection of ecosystems, respect for indigenous peoples' rights, and sustainable management practices.

Responsible Wood works collaboratively with industry stakeholders, including forest managers, landowners, timber producers, retailers, and consumers, to promote sustainable forest management practices. The organization raises awareness about the importance of responsible forestry, supports education and training initiatives, and advocates for the use of certified wood products.

The objectives of Responsible Wood are to enhance the reputation of the Australian forest industry, increase market access for certified products, and contribute to sustainable development and the conservation of forest resources. By promoting responsible forest management through their certification scheme, Responsible Wood aims to balance environmental protection, social well-being, and economic viability in the forestry sector.

As a non-profit organization, Responsible Wood operates with the primary goal of advancing sustainable forest management practices and providing assurance to consumers that wood and forest products from certified sources meet recognized standards. The revenue generated by the certification services is reinvested into the organization to support its ongoing activities and initiatives.