Enviro News Asia, Brussels – The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification has confirmed that its certification system is fully aligned with the European Union’s Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive, which is set to take effect in September 2026.
The directive requires companies to ensure that sustainability labels used in consumer-facing communication are credible, transparent, and supported by robust certification schemes.
Following an internal assessment, PEFC stated that its system meets all criteria outlined under the directive’s definitions of “sustainability labels” and “certification schemes.” This allows companies using PEFC trademarks in accordance with its standards to continue making compliant and verifiable sustainability claims.
PEFC highlighted that its certification framework is based on independent third-party verification, with publicly accessible rules and strict compliance mechanisms. The system also ensures open and non-discriminatory access for forest owners and supply chain companies, including smallholders through group certification schemes.
In addition, PEFC standards are developed through a multi-stakeholder process involving environmental organizations, industry representatives, and technical experts, with mandatory public consultation aligned with international frameworks such as ISO guidelines.
The organization also maintains clear procedures for addressing non-compliance, including corrective actions, suspension, or termination of certification, which directly affects the right to use PEFC trademarks.
Independent monitoring is conducted by accredited certification bodies operating under ISO/IEC standards, ensuring objectivity and international credibility in verification processes.
By fulfilling all five key requirements of the directive, PEFC reaffirmed its position as a reliable certification scheme within the evolving European regulatory landscape.
For companies, this confirmation provides assurance that PEFC-certified products and trademarks can continue to be used, provided they adhere to established guidelines, including clear, specific, and non-misleading sustainability messaging. (*)
