PEFC Endorsement Process Begins
Five years ago ATFS began an initiative to re-engineer its certification program to fit emerging criteria for international certification systems,specifically the Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification Systems (PEFC).
The initiative, Certification Readiness Initiative, or CRI guided the Tree Farm program and the American Forest Foundation as it set new standards of sustainability, established new national uniform training procedures, prescribed inspector qualifications, and developed a group certification system. ATFS has completed this preparation and is now ready to apply for PEFC endorsement.
PEFC is the independent, non-profit,non-governmental organization, founded in 1999 which promotes sustainably managed forests through independent third-party certification. PEFC provides an assurance mechanism to purchasers of wood and paper products that they are promoting the sustainable management of forests.
To assure a successful endorsement audit, ATFS has contracted with Abusow International, Ltd. to begin a gap analysis of PEFC endorsement requirements.Following this analysis, it will be determined if ATFS is in a position to continue, with Abusow et al working with ATFS to bridge any gaps noted in the analysis.
After completion of the bridging (if required), Abusow et al will take ATFS through the PEFC endorsement application process. Following the application submission, PEFC will contract with a third-party auditor who will audit ATFS to the PEFC standards. ATFS national will keep state committees well apprised of this progress. The NOC has established a Certification Endorsement Task Group to monitor the progress and to work with state programs to prepare them for the PEFC audit.For more information contact inspectors@treefarmsystem.org.
