NCCF Achieves 100% Approval for ToF Scheme Endorsement by PEFC

In a significant milestone to promoting sustainable management of trees outside forests in India, the Network for Certification and Conservation of Forests (NCCF), the National Governing Body from India, has achieved a remarkable achievement with the full endorsement of the Trees outside Forest Certification System (ToF STD) by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

This certification scheme would facilitate the certification of wood-based raw material originating from Tree outside Forests (ToF).

Which is almost mandatory for export of wood based products. Currently in India, wood-based industries procure wood-based raw materials 75% from ToF, 5% from Forests and 23% from import etc. NCCF, along with other key stakeholders of the industry, has been actively working towards the development of a country-specific certification scheme since 2016.

The development of the ToF STD was a meticulous process, undertaken by the Standard Development Group (SDG), which followed a rigorous, open, transparent, and consultative approach. The ToF standard has successfully obtained international endorsement from PEFC a Geneva-based organization consisting of a global alliance of 55 member countries. The endorsement by PEFC is a testament to the commitment of NCCF and the Indian forestry sector towards sustainability and responsible management of natural resources, Forests, and Trees outside Forest.

This achievement holds great significance for India’s wood sector specifically for exporters. Every export of wood based products has to attach sustainable forest product certificate to avoid use of illegal timber. Since there was no certification agency in India, hence exporters were forced to import costly timber with such certification.

The endorsement of NCCF’s ToF Certification Scheme by PEFC will provide:

1. Recognition: The endorsement signifies global recognition for India’s efforts in promoting Trees outside forests management and related practices.

2. Support for Marginal Farmers and Tree Growers: It will contribute to enhancing the income of marginal farmers and tree growers, strengthening their livelihoods through responsible agroforestry practices.

3. Better Market Access: The endorsement will open up better market platforms and opportunities for Indian agroforestry produce, ensuring higher incomes for the stakeholders.

4. Sustainable sourcing assurance for industries: It will provide a reliable way for various sectors like pulp and paper industry, furniture and handicraft sector to ensure the sustainable sourcing of raw materials, since bulk raw materials come from outside forest areas.

Certifications guarantee that the trees used meet specific environmental and social criteria, reducing the risk of unsustainable practices.

Industries in these sectors can enhance their reputation by showcasing their commitment to responsible sourcing through TOF certifications. This can be a valuable marketing tool.

5. Cost effective: A healthy market will be established for the entrepreneurs in terms of cost involved in certification process.
For further information about NCCF and the endorsed ToF Certification Scheme, please visit www.nccf.in.