Södra offers its members FSC certification

Södra has decided to offer FSC certification to its members. The reason behind the decision is the strong increase in demand for FSC-certified products. FSC certification of forest owners gives Södra greater earnings capability by enabling it to offer products that are FSC certified to pulp and timber customers alike.
Södra will provide its members with the opportunity for dual certification under both FSC and PEFC. The option of single certification under one of the two systems remains. Preparations are under way to make FSC certification available, and further information regarding time plans and action for forest owners who wish to have dual certification will be presented during the spring.
Södra is playing an active role in the FSC process. Within the framework for the reviewed Swedish FSC standard presented today, Södra will participate in such areas as better adapting the standard to the needs of small-scale forest operations.
From 1 July a higher certification premium will be paid to FSC and PEFC certified members. Members with certification under both systems will be paid a double certification premium. The certification premium will be raised from 1 July to SEK 10 per m3fub, meaning that dual certification pays a premium of SEK 20 per m3fub.
At present, 15,500 of Södra member estates are PEFC certified, representing an area of over 1.5 million hectares, or some 66 per cent of Södra’s membership area.
FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) and PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) are the two leading forest certification systems in the world. Both systems review and set standards for forest management while taking into account environmental and social aspects along with economic and business interests.