SFI works with the forest sector, brand owners, conservation groups, resource professionals, landowners, educators, local communities, Indigenous peoples, governments, and universities.
The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) represents a leading standard in forest management, ensuring that products are sourced from well-managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. The SFI program is built on strong principles, objectives, and performance measures that promote sustainable forest management.
Choosing SFI-certified products means contributing to a future of healthy forests. The initiative is pivotal for promoting sustainable forestry practices that encompass the protection of water quality, wildlife habitat, species at risk, and Indigenous Peoples' rights, ensuring a legacy of vibrant forests for generations to come.
The SFI Program only certifies lands in the United States and Canada, and program participants must comply with all applicable laws.
The Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) 2022 Fiber Sourcing Standard continues to advance responsible forestry practices, evolving with updated principles, objectives, performance measures, and indicators to meet contemporary environmental and social responsibilities. This standard, reflective of the latest in forestry science and stakeholder input, is designed to ensure the sustainable acquisition of roundwood and field-manufactured or primary-mill residual chips, pulp, and veneer for forest products facilities.
Building upon the foundation established by the 2015-2019 standards, the 2022 update emphasizes enhanced measures to promote biodiversity, utilize best management practices for water quality protection, engage in meaningful outreach to landowners, and rely on the expertise of forest management and harvesting professionals. The updated standard is structured to address the dynamic challenges and opportunities within the forestry sector, ensuring that organizations with a fiber sourcing program continue to meet rigorous, globally recognized sustainability benchmarks.
Appendix 1: Rules for Use of SFI Certified Sourcing Label
The 2022 standard permits companies to use the certified sourcing label on products, signifying compliance with the most current fiber sourcing requirements. This label assures consumers and stakeholders that the raw materials are sourced in alignment with one or more of the following criteria:
- Fiber conforming to the SFI 2022 Fiber Sourcing Standard
- Pre-Consumer Recycled Content
- Post-Consumer Recycled Content
- Certified Forest Content
- Non-Controversial Sources
This comprehensive approach not only underscores a commitment to sustainable forest management but also promotes transparency and trust in products bearing the SFI certified sourcing label, reflecting the latest advancements in forestry certification and environmental stewardship.
Organizations can leverage chain-of-custody certification to meticulously track and report the forest-fiber composition of their products, utilizing one of three methods: physical separation, percentage, or the credit method for mixed inputs. This process is governed by the SFI 2022 Chain-of-Custody Standard, requiring companies to undergo an audit as outlined in Section 4 of the SFI 2022 Standards and Rules.
The standard is applicable to any entity involved in the sourcing, processing, manufacturing, handling, trading, converting, or printing of forest-based products. To comply, companies must implement effective systems for inventory management, staff training, reporting, and invoicing, facilitating the traceability of certified sources, certified sourcing, and recycled content from the point of origin to the final product.
With an increasing number of consumers demanding products that are environmentally friendly, the SFI Chain-of-Custody Standard and its labels serve as a robust mechanism for businesses to prove that their wood, paper, and packaging goods are derived from certified forest content, certified sourcing, or recycled materials.
SFI Certification Benefits
- Market Recognition: SFI certification is recognized globally, enhancing market access and customer trust in your commitment to sustainability.
- Environmental Stewardship: Demonstrates your dedication to environmental care and responsible forest management practices.
- Community and Social Benefits: Supports local communities through responsible forest management practices that respect the rights of Indigenous Peoples and contribute to the overall social well-being.
Intertek offers comprehensive services to guide you through the SFI certification process, ensuring that your forestry management practices meet the highest standards of sustainability and responsible environmental stewardship. Our expertise in environmental and sustainability certification can help you demonstrate your commitment to preserving forests for future generations.
