As sustainability becomes a key purchasing factor, PEFC-certified businesses gain a competitive edge by appealing to eco-conscious consumers. By December 2024, over 13,000 PEFC Chain of Custody certificates had been issued, up from 12,000 in December 2023. This highlights the growing importance of sustainable sourcing for businesses, such as PEFC packaging and other certified eco-friendly materials.
Understanding PEFC certification
What does the PEFC label mean?
PEFC is a global system that ensures forests are managed responsibly. It verifies that wood and paper products come from legal, sustainable sources. The PEFC label signifies that a product meets strict environmental, social, and economic sustainability standards, whether sourced from certified forests, controlled materials, or recycled content. This gives businesses and consumers confidence in responsible forestry practices.
PEFC certification requirements
PEFC certification requirements differ based on whether a business is pursuing Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) certification or Chain of Custody (CoC) certification. Below is an overview of the key requirements for each:
- PEFC Sustainable Forest Management certification requirements
Forest owners and managers may acquire PEFC Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) certification to demonstrate their commitment to responsible forestry. The requirements include compliance with national and international forestry laws, biodiversity protection, and responsible harvesting that does not exceed natural regeneration rates, among other sustainability standards.
Read more: Indonesian forests: potential & contribution to the world
- PEFC Chain of Custody certification requirements
Supply chain businesses with PEFC Chain of Custody (CoC) certification meet the requirements for sourcing wood and paper products from certified forests, controlled sources, or recycled materials. Foopak ensures full supply chain transparency, avoids controversial sources such as illegal logging, and maintains detailed records to verify compliance. Foopak’s PEFC packaging demonstrates how businesses can uphold these sustainability standards while offering responsible packaging solutions.
Environmental benefits of PEFC certification
By ensuring responsible forest management, PEFC certification helps prevent deforestation, protect biodiversity, and support climate action. It also promotes sustainable sourcing, reducing reliance on unsustainable materials.
For example, PEFC packaging offers businesses an eco-friendly alternative with paper-based materials from responsibly managed forest, aligning with global sustainability goals and consumer expectations.
Reasons for businesses to opt for PEFC-certified packaging
Businesses and consumers are increasingly recognizing the value of certified products, leading to broader adoption of PEFC standards across various industries.
1. Sustainability commitment
Using PEFC-certified packaging reflects a strong commitment to environmental responsibility. It ensures materials are sourced from sustainably managed forests, helping to protect biodiversity, reduce deforestation, and lower carbon emissions.
2. Market differentiation and consumer trust
As demand for eco-friendly products grows, PEFC packaging helps businesses stand out. The certification assures customers that the packaging meets sustainability standards, enhancing brand reputation and building consumer confidence.
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3. Support for local communities
PEFC certification supports ethical sourcing by promoting fair labor practices and benefiting local and Indigenous communities involved in responsible forestry. Opting for PEFC-certified products helps businesses contribute to sustainable economic development.
4. Regulatory compliance
PEFC certification helps businesses meet regulatory requirements like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), which mandates that wood-based products be legally sourced and deforestation-free. PEFC Chain of Custody certification ensures verified traceability, making it easier for businesses to comply with EUDR’s due diligence obligations. By using PEFC-certified packaging, companies can reduce compliance risks, avoid penalties, and demonstrate their commitment to sustainable sourcing.
As a global non-profit NGO, PEFC plays a key role in advancing responsible forest management and ensuring a sustainable supply chain. It works with certification bodies worldwide, including the Indonesian Forestry Certification Cooperation (IFCC), Sustainable Green Ecosystem Council (SGEC) in Japan, and PEFC UK, to uphold rigorous sustainability standards. Through this global network, PEFC helps businesses source materials responsibly while meeting regulatory and consumer expectations.
Foopak’s commitment to sustainability with PEFC packaging
Foopak supports responsible forest management by providing food paper packaging made from PEFC-certified wood. Our sustainable packaging solutions help businesses build consumer trust and stay compliant with regulations. Learn more about how we can support your sustainability goals by visiting https://www.foopak.com/.