PEFC CoC certification

The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international non-profit, nongovernmental organisation. It promotes sustainable forest management through third-party certification. PEFC certification from TÜV SÜD gives the market assurances you’re your products are sourced from responsibly managed forests.

PEFC CoC certification is the only international forest scheme that bases its criteria on internationally accepted intergovernmental conventions and guidelines. To be labelled as PEFC certified, wood products such as furniture must meet the high standards set by the organisation. To demonstrate its origins the entire flow of wood material, from forest to consumer, must be monitored and documented. This evidence is known as the Chain of Custody (CoC).

The market is increasingly demanding responsibly sourced wood products. Suppliers must use sources that limit damage to the forest environment, as well as forest-dependent indigenous communities. Their products must meet regulatory requirements, such as those in the U.S. (the Lacey Act) and Europe (EU Timber Regulation).

Documenting wood sources’ sustainability and featuring the via PEFC CoC certification mark on products gives customers confidence that your business does not harm forests. It also enables you to offer origin of material and promotion of responsible forestry as added value propositions. By using PEFC materials your business opens up new opportunities in markets that require suppliers to be PEFC certified. Sourcing from sustainably managed forests will enhance your brand reputation.

TÜV SÜD is an internationally accredited Certification Body for PEFC CoC. Our trusted audit experts understand the technical and social complexities of PEFC CoC certification across a wide range of industries (wood processing, pulp and paper, packaging, and printing). We also offer PEFC CoC audits in combination with other forest management schemes or ISO standards. This eliminates duplication of work and saves you time and money. Our comprehensive services extend from pre-audit throughout the entire five-year certification cycle.

PEFC CoC certification

Designed for all businesses involved in the supply chain of forest-based products. The certification requires ongoing annual audits. We perform these during the five-year certification cycle. We monitor your implementation of requirements for the separation of certified and uncertified material. In addition, we identify gaps where the two types of material may potentially get mixed. Our auditors observe your company’s separation and flow of material, its management systems, as well as the use of the PEFC trademarks.

Alignment with EU Timber Regulation through PEFC Due Diligence System (DDS)

Our experts assist you to demonstrate alignment with EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) requirements through PEFC CoC certification. The PEFC CoC standard is fully aligned with EUTR requirements via its integral PEFC Due Diligence System (PEFC DDS). The DDS is a systematic approach, in line with the EUTR, for assessing the risk related to illegally harvested wood.