What is Forest Certification?
Forest Certification verifies forests are managed to a defined sustainable standard leading to a certificate issued by a recognised independent party. Certification works throughout the forest supply chain with the aim of promoting good practice in the forest and to ensure and verify that timber and non-timber forest products are produced with respect to ecological, social and ethical standards. A chain of custody system further ensures traceability of certified materials from the forest to the processors and ultimately to the consumer. Through labelling, consumers can identify products from sustainably managed forests.
There are two main international forest certification schemes ,FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC( Programme for the Endorsement of Forestry Certification). They have their own set of standards and criteria for sustainable and responsible forest management but are effectively the same.
For more information on these schemes see www.pefc.ie and www.fsc.org
Both FSC and PEFC certification schemes ensure :
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​The Law is being adhered to​​
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Health and safety standards are being met
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Good Forest Management is being Practiced
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Activity in the forest has no negative impact on existing Flora and Fauna
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Effort are being made to increase Biodiversity
Dual Certification
Dual Certification refers to the practice of obtaining both FSC and PEFC certifications for forestry operations in Ireland. It ensures that the forest manangement practices meet the standards and criteria of both organisations ,demonstrating a commitment to environmental and sustainable forestry practices. It's a way to provide assurance to consumers and stakeholders that forests are managed responsibly and ethically. Some customers or regions may prefer one certification scheme over the other, so dual certification is a practical solution to access wider markets.
Current State of Forest Certification
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Currently in the private sector , 5.69% of private forests are certified according to Coford.
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In a recent survey carried out by Coford on Private Forestry Owners (PFO's) , only 44% of PFO's were aware of certification.
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In a survey carried out by Coford on entities in the Processing and Wood panels sector , all 100% of their respondence stated a need for certification in the future and in order to grow into new markets. Also 70% of respondents indicated a demand for dual certification. 40% of respondents indicated that the lack of certification has been an issue for them in purchasing timber from the private sector within the last year, while over 90% indicated that lack of certification will be an issue for them purchasing timber from the private sector.
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The current roundwood production forecast, it states that assuming the 70% percent threshold remains the same. An estimated 2.88 million metres cubed from the private sector will need to be certified by 2026. This is estimated to represent approximately 2000 private forest owners .
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It also states in the current roundwood production forecast ,In the absence of increased certification, the impact will be immediate and significant as processors will wither have to import additional certified logs to meet the 70% threshold or develop markets for non-certified materials, this in-turn will see a decrease in timber prices and the potential withholding of volumes by the private sector in anticipation
Why to certify?
70% Rule- To meet certification criteria Irish timber sawmills must use 70% certified wood in their process to be able to apply the PEFC or FSC stamp. To date, this threshold hasn't caused the sector an issue as all timber from the Coillte estate and some other schemes is certified. Currently the private sector timber can be used in the sawmills can be used to make up the balancing 30%. Unfortunately from 2025 onwards meeting this rule will become a major challenge unless the current levels of certification of the private sector forests is addressed.
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Government Grants- The Irish government offer financial incentives and support that align with the certification standards. Forest owners that promote sustainable forest management can benefit from grants and subsidies. For example,
Sustainable Forest Management- Certification helps protect Irish forests and their ecosystems. Sustainable forestry practices reduce deforestation and promote reforestation, maintaining biodiversity and preserving habitats for wildlife.
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Economic Viability- Sustainable forest management practices promoted by certification help ensure that long-term economic viability of the forest sector in Ireland proving a continuous source of income and jobs. Certified timber often commands higher prices in the market, providing economic incentives for responsible forestry practices.
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Value optimisation- With an effective forestry management plan in place, certification will ensure you maximize the value of your asset.
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