Global growth in PEFC certification: 'Forests are gaining increasing economic and ecological value' |
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Growth in certified forest area and more countries participating
The global area of PEFC-certified forests increased by more than 2.2 million hectares in 2024. This is according to the Impact Report from PEFC, the world's largest certification system for sustainable forest management. In total, nearly 300 million hectares are now certified, spread across 49 countries. Last year, that number was still 44.
Significant progress has been made especially in Africa. In the Republic of the Congo, the largest PEFC-certified forest area on the continent is now located. There, the certified area doubled in just one year to more than 3 million hectares.
new step: trees outside the forest also certified
A striking development is that PEFC in the Netherlands has launched a new certificate for 'Trees Outside Forests'. This allows trees along roadsides, on farmland, and in urban areas to be eligible for certification. The municipality of Zwolle was the first in the world to receive this certificate. According to Marten de Groot, National Secretary of PEFC Netherlands, the impact of certification goes beyond nature conservation: 'As supply chains become increasingly sustainable, trees outside forests are also gaining economic value. That benefits both nature and the local economy.'
 | | PEFC-certified forest in Africa 2024 |
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timber construction gains ground with certified wood
PEFC promotes the global use of certified wood in construction. This stores CO₂ for the long term and reduces pressure on natural resources. Since 2020, the organisation has been hosting the international knowledge events Tomorrow Timber Talks. More than 4,350 professionals have participated, including architects and policymakers.
'The Netherlands is leading the way in embracing timber construction,' says Patricia Dolman, Marketing and Communications Manager at PEFC Netherlands. 'With our knowledge, we inspire other countries to also choose sustainable building practices.'
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'The Netherlands is leading the way in embracing timber construction'
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certification aligns with stricter legislation
For companies, certification is becoming increasingly important, partly due to the new European deforestation regulation (EUDR), which will take effect at the end of 2025. Companies must then demonstrate that their products do not contribute to deforestation. PEFC has updated its certificate to align with this and provides tools and information to support businesses.
International research shows that 81 percent of companies choose PEFC certification due to the growing demand for sustainability. Three-quarters aim to avoid reputational damage. Practical benefits, such as access to certified materials, also play a role.
25 years of PEFC: from initiative to global leader
In 25 years, PEFC has grown from a small initiative to a global certification system with millions of hectares of certified forest. The organisation now works with 1 million forest owners.
Chairman Maarten Willemen looks ahead: 'We look back on the past year with pride, but the coming years are crucial. We have the opportunity to protect more forests worldwide and contribute to the circular economy.'
 | | PEFC market research findings 2024 |
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'As supply chains become increasingly sustainable, trees outside forests are also gaining economic value. That benefits both nature and the local economy'
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This article was originally published on 26 May 2025 on the Stad + Groen website.
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