At Soil Association Certification, our mission is to empower businesses that rely on forest resources to make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you're a forest operator dedicated to responsible stewardship or a business sourcing forest-risk commodities, we are your trusted partner. We ensure that your products are ethically and legally sourced, and play no part in the degradation of our world's precious forests.
Navigating timber regulations with expertise
In the ever-evolving landscape of forestry, compliance with timber regulations is paramount. For over a decade, Soil Association Certification has been at the forefront, assisting businesses in adhering to critical laws such as the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR) and UK Timber Regulation (UKTR), and more. These regulations encompass a broad spectrum of timber-related products, including pulp and paper. We offer a range of specialised services designed to support businesses in meeting these regulatory requirements.
Meeting the challenge of deforestation-free commodities
As champions of sustainability, we recognise the significance of the European Parliament's ground-breaking legislation to combat global deforestation. By targeting unsustainable production and trade of forest-risk commodities in Europe, this law sets a new standard.
Soil Association Certification's impact extends far beyond forestry certification. Since the 1970s, we have worked with farmers and businesses across diverse agricultural supply chains. Our pioneering organic certification programme spans food and drink, farming, textiles, and beauty and wellbeing products. This multifaceted legacy, combined with our experience in due diligence systems, uniquely positions us to help align your business with legal and responsible sourcing practices for forest risk commodities.
About the EU Deforestation Regulations (EUDR)
In May 2023, the European Parliament took a monumental step in the fight against global deforestation and forest degradation with the introduction of the EUDR. These new laws mandate that EU companies must ensure that the wood, palm oil, soy, rubber, coffee, cocoa, and cattle they import not only comply with legal standards but also meet human rights legislation and indigenous peoples' rights. Importantly, these products must not originate from land that has been deforested or degraded since 31st December 2020. While no country or commodity will be banned outright, a robust due diligence system and traceability back to origin will be prerequisites for importing, trading, and exporting.
Our proven track record
Training services
We have a world leading training service, providing auditors, enforcement bodies and businesses with the technical expertise needed to work in sustainable forestry and supply chains. We are a recognised provider for FSC® training, including ecosystem services, forest management and chain of custody. We offer tailored training aimed at helping your business align with the legal requirements defined in UKTR, EUTR and EUDR. For more information about upcoming training programs, click here.
DDS certification
Recognised by the UK Competent Authority a UKTR Monitoring Organisation, we provide due diligence systems (DDS) for GB Operators, and offer a comprehensive package including training, a DDS toolkit, auditing and certification. We provide the same service without Monitoring Organisation status to businesses in the EU, tailored to ensure compliance with EUTR.
Verification of Legal Compliance (VLC)
Our VLC certification reassures your customers that the products you are sourcing meet the relevant national legislation. It also confirms that all documents to do with legal production of forest risk commodities are valid. We offer VLC for both Forest Management and Supply Chains, adaptable to local standards, including for agricultural products.
Trade Association Partnership for UKTR
In the United Kingdom, we have been a steadfast ally to Timber Development UK and its members as the exclusive auditor of its Responsible Purchasing Policy (RPP). We provide leadership for due diligence best practice, with ongoing auditing and training for operators. We assess the due diligence systems of TDUK members every year, and provide feedback and guidance to drive continuous improvement for the industry and create a level playing field for all operators.
Exploring partnership opportunities
If your business or industry group shares our vision for excellence and compliance, we invite you to explore partnership options. Together, we can elevate industry standards for forest-risk commodities and create a sustainable future for all.
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