Year of publication 2013

A certification system outlines the rules, procedures and management for carrying out certification. It establishes specific requirements for a product, process, system or body, and uses a third-party to ensure that the fulfillment of specified requirements has been demonstrated. A credible certification system relies upon three separate functions: standard setting, certification and accreditation. This toolkit has been produced for those interested in PEFC’s guidance as they embark on developing their national forest certification system. It gives hands-on advice for practitioners and captures recommendations from PEFC and its existing members who have completed the same process.