The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) is increasingly becoming an important forest certification option in South Africa. Sappi Limited (Sappi) recently announced that it has become an International Stakeholder member of PEFC. This membership aligns with its focus on sustainable forest management and responsible procurement throughout its supply and value chains.
Over the past years, Sappi has been collaborating with national stakeholders to develop a national forest certification system. These efforts have now delivered the South African Forest Assurance Scheme (SAFAS) – which has recently been assessed and endorsed by PEFC.
Steve Binnie, Sappi chief executive officer commented that, ‘Credible, internationally recognised, robust forest certification systems like PEFC are fundamental to Sappi’s commitment to sustainability. These systems give assurance to our value chain of the origin of our woodfibre and responsible forest management practices.’
Graeme Wild, Sappi’s group head of sustainability and investor relations added, ‘Given that stakeholder engagement underpins our approach to doing business at Sappi, we welcome the opportunity to become a PEFC International Stakeholder member. Through voting in PEFC’s General Assembly and joining Working Groups and Committees, we look forward to sharing our expertise and contributing to the mission of PEFC.’
‘The collaboration reinforces our contribution towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals and in particular SDG 15 – Life on Land; given our common priorities to promote sustainable forest management and support smallholder forestry around the world.’
SAPPI www.sappi.com
