The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) Council says that 2005 was a very successful year for its scheme worldwide.
By the end of the year PEFC-endorsed certified forest accounted for more than 187 million ha, a figure the council claims is equivalent to two-thirds of the world’s certified forest area.
In its annual review for 2005, PEFC said around 6% of the world’s forest area is now certified, accounting for more than 20% of the global industrial roundwood production.
PEFC said its recognition in government and private procurement policies and in the market place has increased, and the issue of its chain of custody certificates has grown at a rate of nearly two a day.
There are now 32 member schemes, 21 of which had endorsed status by the end of 2005.
Communication and promotion efforts have been stepped up and PEFC is continuing to work closely with international organisations involved in forest certification, including governmental agencies, DIY retailer chains and NGOs.
