Paper and board are widely used in packaging across sectors including food and drink, cosmetics, retail and logistics. For organisations looking to demonstrate how forest and tree-based material has been sourced, PEFC Chain of Custody certification provides an independently assessed framework.
PEFC Chain of Custody certification enables organisations to identify and manage forest and tree-based material through the supply chain and make PEFC claims in accordance with the standard.
Certification relates specifically to the sourcing and handling of forest and tree-based material. It does not, by itself, assess the overall environmental impact, carbon footprint, recyclability or performance of the finished packaging.
Why use PEFC Chain of Custody certification?
PEFC Chain of Custody certification can help organisations:
- Demonstrate that their processes have been independently assessed against PEFC Chain of Custody requirements.
- Identify material categories and maintain the records needed to support PEFC claims.
- Pass accurate PEFC information to customers through sales and delivery documentation.
- Use PEFC trademarks on eligible products and promotional materials in accordance with the PEFC Trademark Rules.
- Respond to customer and procurement requirements for certified forest and tree-based material.
What does PEFC Chain of Custody cover?
PEFC Chain of Custody addresses the origin and handling of forest and tree-based material used in products. Organisations must identify the material they receive, apply an approved Chain of Custody method, maintain appropriate records and make accurate PEFC claims about eligible outputs.
Material carrying a PEFC claim may originate from PEFC-certified forests, recycled material and/or PEFC controlled sources, as defined by the applicable standard and claim.
The certification applies only to the forest and tree-based material within its defined scope. Any separate claim about carbon emissions, recyclability or the overall environmental impact of a packaging product must be supported by appropriate product-specific and lifecycle evidence.
Applications for paper-based packaging
PEFC Chain of Custody certification can apply to forest and tree-based material used in products such as:
- Cartons and boxes
- Paper bags
- Sleeves and wraps
- Labels
- Food and drink packaging
- E-commerce and delivery packaging
Organisations should ensure that any PEFC claim accurately reflects the certified status of the relevant material and is communicated in accordance with PEFC requirements.
Communicate certified sourcing
PEFC Chain of Custody certification provides eligible organisations with a recognised framework for communicating the certified sourcing of forest and tree-based material used in packaging.
Contact PEFC UK to learn more about finding certified suppliers, obtaining Chain of Custody certification and using the PEFC trademarks correctly.
