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  • Aim/Focus
  • Standard organisation
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Forest certification according to PEFC standards is based on the guidelines for the sustainable management of forests. This management is controlled by competent and independent organisations. If a product made of wood bears the PEFC label, the entire production process - from the raw material to the ready-to-use end product - is certified and controlled by independent experts.
PEFC is the largest institution for ensuring sustainable forest management through an independent certification system. Timber and wood products with the PEFC label demonstrably originate from ecologically, economically and socially sustainable forestry. PEFC is a transparent and independent system for ensuring sustainable forest management and thus a kind of global "forest MOT". The abbreviation PEFC stands for "Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes".
Sustainable forest management means, for example: No more wood is cut than will grow back. Where trees have been cut, the area is reforested. The forest remains a safe habitat for animals and plants. The diversity of species in the forest is preserved. A sustainably managed forest retains its function as a natural protector of water bodies, soils and climate. The legal origin of the raw material wood is also ensured. The high standards of occupational safety are respected in all forest work. Workers' rights are respected and the rights of the people who live from and/or depend on the forest (for example forest farmers or indigenous peoples in South America) are safeguarded.

Which lifecycle phases are covered by the standard?

Raw materials extraction and production

Cultivation of fibers (e.g. wood), alternatively recycled fibers (waste paper) can be used

Manufacturing

Pulp is made from the primary fibers, which is then further processed into paper in several steps. When using recycled fibers, old printing ink must first be removed

Transportation / distribution

The transport route from one production stage to the next as well as to the end consumer

Products use and consumption

Usage through the owner

End-of-life

Proper disposal of paper or return to the cycle (recycling)