PEFC Deutschland e.V.
PEFC Deutschland promotes sustainable forest management and protects over 7.6 million hectares of forest. As part of the largest certification system, PEFC guarantees environmentally friendly wood and paper products. The organization focuses on transparency, independence, and biodiversity.
About PEFC Deutschland
editPEFC Deutschland is the leading institution for ensuring sustainable forest management in Germany and part of the world's largest independent certification system for forestry. Founded in 1999 as a registered association, PEFC Deutschland is committed to the development and implementation of strict and transparent standards that ensure ecologically, economically, and socially sustainable forestry. With over 7.6 million hectares of certified forest area, which corresponds to about two-thirds of Germany's forests, PEFC is the most significant organization for forest certification in Germany.
Key Products and Services
editThe PEFC label is the heart of the organization and represents wood and paper products that come from sustainably managed forests. The certification covers the entire production chain, from raw material to finished product, and is monitored by independent auditors. This provides both large and private consumers with the assurance that the products they purchase are environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Mission and Values
editThe mission of PEFC Deutschland is to promote sustainable forest management and ensure that forests remain a livelihood for plants, animals, and humans. The organization places great importance on transparency, independence, and credibility. These values are reflected in the strict guidelines that go far beyond legal requirements. PEFC is committed to ensuring that no more wood is harvested than can be regenerated, and that biodiversity and the protective functions of forests for water, soil, air, and climate are maintained.
Sustainability Goals and Initiatives
editPEFC Deutschland aims to protect forests as an important component of the global ecosystem while meeting the societal demand for the raw material wood. The organization works to preserve forests as a safe habitat for animals and plants and to promote biodiversity. Through targeted reforestation and sustainable management practices, PEFC contributes to ensuring that forests maintain their essential functions for climate and the environment.
International and National Significance
editPEFC was originally established as a European system and has developed into a global organization operating in 55 member states. In Germany, over 200,000 forest owners rely on PEFC certification, including state forest enterprises, municipal forests, and private forest owners. The organization is a recognized partner for public and private procurement agencies that rely on the PEFC label as proof of legal and sustainable forestry.
With a transparent and participatory approach, PEFC enables the inclusion of family forest enterprises and small private farms in forest certification, contributing to the preservation of the domestic forest. The organization continuously works to further develop its standards and procedures to address the challenges of climate change and global deforestation.