Responsible Wood (RW) is a national forest certification system for forest owners and managers in Australia and New Zealand to demonstrate sustainable forest management and show commitment to economic, social, and environmental responsibility. The certification recognizes forest practices that minimize greenhouse emissions, ensuring sustainability and adaptability amongst the impacts of climate change. It also focuses on community and local industry support, as well as protection of Indigenous people’s values.
This certification is designed for forests in the region that want to sell responsibly and ethically sourced products in the forest products supply chain. With endorsement from the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), Responsible Wood certificate holders gain global entry to markets for certified wood products. Forests that achieve certification can also benefit from improved forest management practices, risk reduction, increased market access, and enhanced reputation.
The certification process entails a third-party assessment including an on-site evaluation of forest practices, stakeholder consultations, reviews of documentation and procedures, and conformance to the AS/NZS 4708 Standard. With SCS Global Services, you’ll also have access to auditors with forest management expertise who are local to your region.