The Australian Forestry Standard Ltd (AFS Ltd) has announced that the first public comment period for the review the “Australian Forestry Standard (AS4708)” ends on 18 May 2012.
The Standard Review Committee appointed by AFS Ltd to review the Standard released the first draft for public comment on 19 March 2012. The draft was provided directly to a large number of stakeholders in forest management seeking their comments.
The Australian Forestry Standard is recognised as a world-class standard and regular review and improvement is required to maintain this recognition. The Committee consists of a broad range of interested and affected stakeholders and they are keen to get public feedback on the draft Standard to compare with their own views.
A number of detailed comments have been received and further input is welcome. There will be a second opportunity for public comment on a second draft once the Committee has considered all the comments and made necessary revisions to the first draft.
The review process is being undertaken in accordance with Standards Australia procedures. AFS Ltd is accredited as a Standards Development Organisation and can therefore develop and review Australian Standards provided the necessary procedures are followed.
The Australian Forest Certification Scheme, of which AS4708 is a key component, is also accredited by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).
PEFC is the world’s largest certification system for sustainable forest management and the Standard Review Committee has sought to ensure that the revised Australian Standard (AS4708) continues to be consistent with PEFC requirements.
The intensive public participation plan for the project, rigorous adherence to international processes and guidelines, as well as an emphasis on objective science and evidence will ensure that this internationally recognised Australian Standard continues to be regarded as a most credible and robust forest certification tool.
To access the draft revised standard, the Stakeholder Feedback Form and the media release go to http://www.forestrystandard.org.au/16StandardsRevision.asp
Completed feedback forms can be submitted to PO Box 7031, Yarralumla, ACT 2603 or emailed to [email protected]
