The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is an international forest certification system promoting ecologically, socially and economically sustainable forestry. Around 10 % of the world’s forests are certified and, of these, two-thirds – some 300 million hectares – to PEFC standards. PEFC-certified forests are found in over 40 countries.

To meet PEFC certification requirements, forest management must satisfy certain standards concerning biodiversity, forest health and maintenance, as well as recreational use. There are requirements for following the passage of raw materials and wood-based products throughout the whole supply chain. These guarantee that raw materials are from certified forests.

Approval for certification requires an audit by an independent and qualified expert to ensure that forest management, wood raw material sources, and follow-up meet PEFC standards. Independent, in this case, means that the auditing body is independent of the production process, of the certification system and its supporters. The role of the certification body, which has been officially declared independent and competent, is to ensure that the requirements for certification are being met.

PEFC certified products, their packaging and documentation can be recognised through the PEFC logo. A company can obtain a Logo Usage License when the company’s activities have been certified.

Another globally recognised certification label is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).