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Everything you need to know about FSC and PEFC certifications.
Surely you have already heard of the forest labels PEFC and FSC? But do you really know what they mean? Here are some explanations to fully understand what these labels are used for and why choosing PEFC/FSC certified wood is an essential gesture for the environment.
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🕐 4 min of reading| Published on: 07/06/2020
What is a forestry label?
This is a certification that attests to sustainable forest management. It is based on precise specifications that must be respected by the stakeholders (owners, operators, processors, distributors).
From the beginning of the chain, in the forest, to the final consumer, PEFC/FSC certified wood guarantees traceability, transparency and respect for nature.
The certification is obtained after an audit carried out by an accredited independent body and is based on three criteria: environmental, societal and economic compliance.
Environmental criteria
In environmental terms, the label guarantees the preservation of forests, the prevention of natural risks, the responsible management of resources and the protection of biodiversity. Thus, PEFC/FSC certified wood contributes directly to the fight against deforestation and the maintenance of ecosystems.
Societal criteria
Certifications also focus on human aspects: safe working conditions in the forest, respect for the rights of local populations and promotion of regional employment. Buying PEFC/FSC certified wood therefore means supporting a socially responsible sector.
Economic criteria
Economically, the labels secure the entire sector against the complexity of the supply chain. They ensure that the production capacity does not exceed the natural rate of regeneration of forests. In this way, PEFC/FSC certified wood ensures a balanced and sustainable management.
Supply chain and traceability
One of the essential points is traceability. The entire chain must be certified: from logging, to processing, then to distribution. Thus, the consumer can be sure that the PEFC/FSC certified wood he buys is really from an eco-responsible management.
💡To remember:
- A forest label ensures that the wood comes from sustainably managed forests.
- Certifications such as PEFC or FSC ensure the traceability of wood from the forest to the consumer.
- They are based on three pillars: respect for the environment, social responsibility and sustainable economic management.
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What is the difference between PEFC and FSC?
The two labels share the same objective: to protect forests and biodiversity. Yet, there are differences between PEFC and FSC that it is useful to know before making one’s choice.
The functioning of the FSC
The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) sets global requirements for responsible logging. Its approach is based on three pillars: social benefits for local communities, economic viability for the actors in the sector, and strict respect for the environment.
PEFC/FSC certified wood with the FSC label benefits from the support of international NGOs such as WWF and Greenpeace, which strengthens its legitimacy.
The functioning of the PEFC
The PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) operates differently. Rather than imposing global standards, it values continuous improvement and adaptation to local contexts.
The PEFC/FSC certified wood from this label is mainly present in European and temperate forests, which makes it an ideal choice for local consumption.
Geographical scope and types of forests
The FSC has a global reach and applies to different types of forests, both tropical and boreal. The PEFC, on the other hand, is more focused on Europe and South America, particularly in temperate zones. Thus, depending on your project, choosing PEFC/FSC certified wood may depend on the desired geographical origin.
NGO support and recognition
The FSC is recognized and supported by leading environmental NGOs. The PEFC, on the other hand, is more supported by stakeholders in the timber sector and forest owners. In any case, buying PEFC/FSC certified wood means contributing to sustainable management, regardless of the label chosen.
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The key principles of sustainable forest management
- Do not harvest more than the forest can naturally regenerate
- Promote natural regeneration or replanting
- Preserve forests with high ecological value
- Maintain large forested areas
- Protect biodiversity and soils
- Ban dangerous chemicals
- Supporting employment and local communities
Whether you opt for FSC or PEFC, PEFC/FSC certified wood remains a responsible choice. It is a guarantee that your purchase respects the forest, the environment and future generations.
| Element | Objective | Practical advice |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainable harvesting | Avoid depleting forest resources | Do not harvest more wood than the forest can naturally regenerate |
| Regeneration and replanting | Ensure forest sustainability | Encourage natural regeneration or carry out replanting to maintain ecological balance |
| High ecological value forests | Preserve sensitive ecosystems | Protect forest areas with high ecological value and maintain large forested zones |
| Biodiversity and soils | Protect ecosystems | Preserve biodiversity and soil quality by limiting chemical interventions |
| Chemical products | Reduce environmental impact | Prohibit the use of hazardous chemicals in forest management |
| Local communities | Support the local economy | Promote employment and support the development of local communities around forests |
| FSC/PEFC certifications | Ensure responsible sourcing | Choose FSC or PEFC certified wood to respect forests, the environment, and future generations |
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