FSC® vs PEFC™ Certifications - What Do They Mean?

When you’re choosing timber for your next project, you may notice products labelled with FSC® or PEFC™ certification. While they are different organisations, both certifications have the same goal: ensuring that timber comes from responsibly managed forests. 

Whether you’re a trade professional, architect or DIY enthusiast, choosing certified timber gives you confidence that the materials you’re buying have been sourced responsibly, with full traceability throughout the supply chain. 

FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) was established in 1994 and is recognised worldwide for its strict environmental, social and economic standards. It helps protect forests, wildlife and local communities while ensuring timber is sourced responsibly. 

FSC® certified products fall into three different categories:

• FSC® 100% - Timber sourced entirely from FSC certified forests 
• FSC® Mix - A combination of timber from FSC certified forests and responsibly sourced recycled or reclaimed material 
• FSC® Recycled - Products manufactured entirely from reclaimed or recycled timber

PEFC™ (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) was founded in 1999 and is the world’s largest forest certification system. It supports sustainable forest management by recognising national certification schemes, with a strong focus on promoting responsibly managed forests and supporting smaller woodland owners. 

PEFC™ certification demonstrates that the timber has been legally and responsibly sourced throughout the supply chain. One of its key accreditations is Chain of Custody certification, which provides full traceability from the forest through to the finished product, giving customers confidence in the origin of the timber they purchase.

Why does certification matter? 

Choose FSC® or PEFC™ certified timber means you can:

• Support responsible forest management 
• Help protect biodiversity and wildlife habitats
• Have confidence in the traceability of your timber 
• Demonstrate your commitment to sustainability on both trade and DIY projects 

At UK Timber, we’re committed to sourcing timber responsibility, helping our customers make more sustainable choices without compromising on quality. Sustainability and transparency are increasingly important factors for both trade professionals and homeowners when selecting timber products. 

We’re pleased to confirm that UK Timber has new FSC® Mix and PEFC™ Chain of Custody certification numbers. 

If you require our updated certification details for your records or project documentation, please find these in the footer of our website or speak to our sales team at 01536 267107 or sales@uk-timber.co.uk. 

Whether you’re specifying timber for a commercial build or a home improvement project, you can continue to buy with confidence, knowing you’re choosing timber from responsibly managed sources.