Forests NSW - Forest management certification
Forests NSW has voluntarily elected to have its management of state forests certified to the strict Australian Forestry Standard - AS 4708:2007 (AFS). The environmental conformity, social benefit and economical viability of the AFS is recognised worldwide, through the Programme for Endorsement of Certification Scheme (PEFC). Forest management certification standards recognised by the PEFC, such as the AFS, are used in many leading countries as a critical indicator of the sustainability of a timber source in purchasing and procurement policies of many governments and companies. Such certification standards and procurement policies help to ensure that the origins of timber-based products are managed sustainably, that unregulated or illegal logging is prevented, and programs to tackle illegal logging are fostered, such as those of the European Union's FLEGT and the Government of Australia.
Most of the consumer demand for sawn timber and panel board products in NSW is met from our forests. Forestry in NSW is regulated in many ways. Timber harvested from NSW state forests is done sustainably. So by meeting the demand from NSW for timber from local sources, we are positively contributing to the sustainability of the world’s forests.
Australian Forestry Standard
Forests NSW is certified by the Australian Forest Certification Scheme (AFCS) to Australian Forestry Standard (AS4708:2007). To become certified, the standard requires that rigid requirements are met or exceeded.
Forests NSW timber has passed the global sustainability test. This internationally recognised standard provides independent assurance that our forest management is consistent with the principles of sustainable forest management.
Certification allows our customers to mark the timber they purchase from us with a logo, which assures customers that the timber is certified as having been legally and sustainably grown.
Buying certified local timber is a better choice for the environment and economy than buying imported products which may not be certified and which may have come from unsustainable forests.
Local timber – the better choice!
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes (PEFC)
PEFC (www.pefc.org) is a global umbrella organisation for the assessment of and mutual recognition of national forest certification schemes. It is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organisation which promotes sustainably managed forests through independent third party certification.
The Australian Forest Certification Scheme (AFCS) has been endorsed by PEFC and granted 'mutual recognition' status.
Publication
Download the following Primefact:
Further information
- Australian Forest Certification Scheme - AFCS (www.forestrystandard.org.au)
- Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes - PEFC (www.pefc.org)