The Pan African Forest Certification (PAFC) Congo Basin regional system has achieved PEFC endorsement. This is the world’s first PEFC endorsed regional forest certification system.
The national members for Cameroon, Congo, and Gabon joined forces under the name of PAFC Congo Basin to develop this regional certification system. The shared language and the similar forestry conditions in the three neighbouring countries enables them to share one system.
“Having one system covering three countries means more significant market access to operate. Furthermore, the training process is more efficient and better value for certification bodies, as auditors only need to be trained on one standard,” said Brice Severin Pongui, President of PAFC Congo.
“In terms of accreditation, having one system simplifies the process, as only one accreditation program needs to be opened for the sub-region.”
Following the endorsement on the regional system, the three PAFC organisations will work on its implementation and support companies in their certification process. An auditor training will be organized in the first half of 2022, along with the promotion of the PAFC Congo Basin system to a broader audience through company training and an open house day.
Another key element of the coming months will be to develop national interpretation guidelines and a guide regarding carbon stock mapping and GHG emissions. These activities will help companies better understand the sustainable forest management standard and its requirements.
PEFC is the world's largest forest certification system.
