Forest certification

The relation between forest certification and environmental performance of a forest products company, including certification implications for production, sales, and marketing is presented. Environmental groups, industry, and other organizations have developed certification programs that landowners used to manage forest properties. Certification programs have several layers of provisions that are intended to facilitate implementation of their principles. Companies participating in the programs often undergo audits to confirm their compliance with the program standards. Compliance with certification programs effectively demonstrates the commitment of companies to stringent environmental standards and help avoid controversy regarding forest management. It also provide opportunities for forest product companies to communicate with their customers about their forest management programs, their environmental philosophy and performance.