PEFC Chain of Custody

PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) Chain of Custody is a certification system that ensures the traceability of sustainably sourced wood and forest-based products throughout the supply chain. It provides a mechanism to verify that products with the PEFC label come from forests that meet rigorous environmental, social, and economic standards.

The PEFC Chain of Custody certification establishes requirements and guidelines for tracking the flow of certified material from the forest to the final product. It enables companies to demonstrate their commitment to responsible sourcing and to communicate this to consumers.

The main elements of the PEFC Chain of Custody certification include:

Sourcing from Certified Forests: The certification requires that companies source their wood and forest-based materials from PEFC-certified forests or other approved sources that meet PEFC's sustainability requirements.

Chain of Custody Documentation: Companies must establish and maintain accurate records that track the movement of certified materials through every stage of the supply chain, from the forest to the final product.

Physical Separation: Certified materials must be kept physically separate from non-certified or uncertified materials throughout the supply chain to prevent mixing and ensure integrity.

Training and Internal Control Procedures: Companies must have adequate procedures and staff training in place to ensure compliance with the PEFC Chain of Custody requirements.

Third-Party Auditing: Certification bodies conduct regular audits to verify that companies comply with the PEFC Chain of Custody requirements. These audits assess the company's records, procedures, and physical separation of certified materials.

By obtaining PEFC Chain of Custody certification, companies can use the PEFC logo on their products, providing assurance to consumers that the products are sourced from responsibly managed forests. The certification also supports companies' efforts to meet sustainability goals and comply with customer requirements for responsible sourcing.

It's important to note that the PEFC Chain of Custody certification is specific to the traceability and responsible sourcing of forest-based materials. It does not address other sustainability aspects such as the use of chemicals, energy efficiency, or labor practices. For a comprehensive assessment of a company's sustainability performance, other certifications or standards may be relevant, such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification or ISO 14001 environmental management system certification.