Australian Forestry Standard

The Australian Forestry Standard (AFS) is a certification system that promotes responsible forest management practices in Australia. It is based on the internationally recognized principles and criteria of sustainable forest management.

The AFS provides a framework for assessing and certifying forest management operations and their compliance with environmental, social, and economic criteria. It aims to ensure that forests are managed in a way that maintains ecological integrity, protects biodiversity, respects the rights of Indigenous communities, and supports the sustainable production of timber and non-timber forest products.

The AFS certification process involves an independent assessment of forest management practices against the AFS criteria. This assessment is conducted by accredited certification bodies. If a forest operation meets the required standards, it can be awarded the AFS certification.

The AFS certification is applicable to various types of forests and land uses, including commercial forestry, conservation forests, and Indigenous-owned lands. It covers both native forests and plantations.

By obtaining AFS certification, forest managers and companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainable forest management practices. The certification provides assurance to customers, stakeholders, and the public that the certified forest operations are environmentally responsible and socially beneficial.

The Australian Forestry Standard is endorsed by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), a globally recognized certification system for sustainable forest management. This endorsement ensures that AFS-certified products meet international standards and can access markets that recognize PEFC certification.

It is important to note that the specific criteria and requirements of the Australian Forestry Standard may evolve over time. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to refer to the official website of the Australian Forestry Standard or consult with the relevant certification bodies involved in the AFS certification process.