PEFC UK Ltd has reached a point where it cannot develop further without funding, according to its chairman Len Yull.
At a forum for UK stakeholders in London last week Mr Yull invited people to sign up to the scheme which now has full membership of the Pan European Forest Certification Council (PEFCC).
PEFC UK Ltd was set up to gain recognition for the UK Woodland Assurance Standard by PEFCC and to represent UK forestry interests in Europe.
Its certification scheme is being assessed by PEFCC, but if PEFC UK is to move forward it must find some money, said Mr Yull. The ultimate aim is to achieve mutual recognition between PEFCC and the Forest Stewardship Council certification scheme.
Funds will be raised through membership and there are five categories – forest and woodland owners; forest products processors, manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers; suppliers of goods and services to the wood chain; environmental and social interest groups; and statutory bodies.
Membership forms are available at www.pefc.co.uk. PEFC UK’s annual meeting will be held in London on October 16.
