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Forest and Woodland Certification

Sustainability and Forest Certification

F&W Forestry is committed to responsible and sustainable forest management by meeting both the legal requirements of the UK Forest Standard and by managing woodlands to the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS). This allows managed woodlands in the UK to gain certification under two leading global forest certification schemes – Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®C008961) and Programme for Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC™).

In addition, certification is a key factor and indicator for our clients and us to demonstrate commitment to corporate social responsibility and supporting environmental, social, and governance (ESG) requirements.

Since 2001, F&W Forestry has operated a Resource Manager Group Scheme, which allows our clients to demonstrate their commitment to responsible Forest Management under both certification schemes. This requires an assessment and audit of the management plan and supporting records to ensure the property meets the certification standards’ entry criteria and requirements.

Led by a dedicated Certification Manager, our national network of experienced forest managers helps woodland owners maintain compliance with UKWAS requirements. A program of internal audit and regular monitoring and inspection adds value to the woodlands within our scheme by advising owners on how to continually improve their forest management and providing advice on changes to legislation, funding streams, and best practices.

The Resource Group Scheme is independently audited and accredited by Soil Association to the requirements of both FSC® and PEFC™.

Further details and background on the UKWAS Standard can be found here.

Preparation of Certification Plan

As commercial forests managed by F&W Forestry approach maturity, they will be certified with the United Kingdom Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS), which also meets the requirements of FSC® and PEFC™.

The standard means that whilst growing and managing forests and woodlands for our clients, we always aim to maintain and, wherever possible, enhance:

  • Basic biological productivity of soils
  • Quality of the atmosphere
  • Biological diversity of a site
  • Security of scarce or unique species and habitats
  • Conservation of historic and cherished landscapes, important archaeological and historical features
Aerial view of a lush green forest with a narrow, winding stream cutting through the landscape. The sky is bright with scattered clouds, and rolling hills can be seen in the distance.

In preparing management plans, F&W Forestry complies with the UK Forestry Standard for sustainable management and all other requirements of the Forestry Commission. It is becoming increasingly common for the Certification Plan to form an Appendix to the Long-Term Forest Plan prepared for the Forestry Commission, thereby avoiding a significant amount of duplication and cost. F&W Forestry provides ongoing management and maintenance services in accordance with the plan. Several forests managed by F&W Forestry, chosen randomly, are independently audited by the Certifying Body each year.