PEFC label
What is a PEFC label?
The PEFC label stands for the “Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification label. It is a globally recognized certification system for sustainable forest management. The PEFC label is similar to the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) label, but it is managed by a different organization with the same objective: to promote sustainable forest management and ensure responsible use of forest resources.
ThermoWood with PEFC label
These ThermoWood species meet the social, ecological and economic standards of the PEFC system:
Construction timber and wood fiber insulation with PEFC label
All our STEICO Joist also have the PEFC label. Would you prefer softwood? If so, we can also deliver them with PEFC labels upon request.
STEICO protect dry
Steico protect
STEICO LVL R
STEICO LVL X
What is the difference between the PEFC and FSC labels?
The difference between the PEFC label and the FSC label is mainly in geographical scope. FSC operates worldwide and has standards that apply to all forest areas, regardless of location. Although the PEFC has worldwide recognition, it has a particularly strong presence in Europe. The PEFC system has strong regional partners and is used in many European countries.
Criteria of the PEFC label
The criteria of the PEFC label are based on sustainable forest management. They are organized into 6 main principles, each with their specific subcategories.
- Forest management must comply with all relevant laws and regulations at the national and international levels.
- Respect for property and use rights of local communities and indigenous peoples.
2. Forest management planning:
- A written forest management plan that includes objectives, measures and timetables for sustainable forest management.
- Evaluation of environmental, social and economic impacts of forest management.
3. Environmental performance:
- Maintain and promote biodiversity and ecological functions of the forest.
- Protection of ecologically important areas, water resources and habitats.
- Recognizing workers’ rights and ensuring decent working conditions.
- Involvement of local communities and indigenous peoples in decision-making and forest management.
5. Economic sustainability:
- Economically viable forest management that generates income for the long term.
- Promote the use of local wood and wood from sustainably managed forests.
6. Continuous improvement:
- Evaluation and monitoring of forest management performance.
- Continuous improvement of forest management based on collected data and experiences.
How is PECF certification achieved?
A PECF certificate is an official recognition awarded by the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. It is designed to ensure sustainable forest management.
PECF checks this itself during a comprehensive audit. Does the organization meet all the strict criteria? Then the label is awarded. This certificate has a validity period and is reviewed regularly through a follow-up audit. Thus, they ensure that compliance is maintained at all times.
How do you recognize the PEFC label?
You will recognize the PEFC label by:
- Logo: The PEFC label consists of a stylized tree with leaves in a circular shape, and below it is the abbreviation “PEFC” in capital letters.
- Certification code: Below the logo is usually a unique certification code, which links the product to the specific PEFC certificate of the forest manager or wood processing company.
- Mention of PEFC certification: Sometimes there is also a statement such as “PEFC certified” or “Certified sustainable forest management” on the label.
- Traceability code: Depending on the type of product, a traceability code may also be provided, which allows the origin of the wood to be traced back to the sustainably managed forest area.
Stevens & C°: expert in ThermoWood
With ThermoWood® you choose an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to tropical hardwood. Do you, like us, value making environmentally responsible choices? Feel free to contact us for advice, our wood experts will be happy to help.