PEFC meets new EU rules for sustainability claims |
|
|
|
|
 |
| 81 sec |
Certificate holders can continue using the label, provided claims remain clear
With the introduction of the European directive Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition (EmpCo) in September 2026, requirements for sustainability claims will become stricter. Labels and claims must be transparent, verifiable and well substantiated. According to PEFC, its certification system meets these new rules. This means that companies with a PEFC certificate can continue to use the label and related claims.
| Image via: PEFC Netherlands |
The PEFC logo is widely used on wood and paper products to demonstrate their origin from sustainably managed forests. For suppliers in public space, such as green contractors and suppliers of wood products, it remains a useful tool towards clients and end users.
|
|
The standards are developed with input from various parties, such as NGOs, industry and experts.
| |
|
Transparency and control central
PEFC states that its system aligns with European requirements through the way certification and control are organised. The organisation works with independent audits according to international standards, and the rules are publicly accessible. Certification is also available to a broad group, from large companies to small forest owners through group certification.
The standards are developed with input from various parties, such as NGOs, industry and experts. In case of violations, clear procedures apply, ranging from corrective measures to the withdrawal of certificates.
|
|
For the green sector, the use of certified wood and materials with a recognised label will also remain possible under the new EU rules, provided communication is handled carefully.
| |
|
What does this mean in practice?
For companies, little will change in principle: the use of the PEFC label remains permitted, as long as they comply with existing rules. However, sustainability claims must be clear and specific, and may not be misleading. It must also be clear to which product or component the claim relates.
Minor adjustments in communication
In the run-up to 2026, PEFC is making some adjustments to its communication guidelines. These changes will be incorporated into the PEFC Label Generator, which companies use to create their labels. This is intended to further reduce the risk of unclear or incorrect claims.
For parties in the green sector, this means that the use of certified wood and materials with a recognised label will remain possible under the new EU rules, provided communication is handled carefully.
|
|
For companies, little will change in principle: the use of the PEFC label remains permitted, as long as they comply with existing rules.
| |
|
This article was previously published on 3 April 2026 on the Stad](https://www.stad-en-groen.nl/article/53579/pefc-voldoet-aan-nieuwe-eu-regels-voor-duurzaamheidsclaims]Stad) + Groen website.
| LOG IN
with your email address to respond.
|
|
|
| There are no comments yet. |
|
| |
Anyone can place small ads for free through their own account.
Place a free ad
|
|
|
|
