SAFAS BECOMES A REGIONAL CERTIFICATION PROGRAMME – 6/11/2024

The Sustainable African Forest Assurance Scheme (SAFAS) started out as the National Governing Body (NGB) for PEFC in South Africa.   SAFAS has expanded to become the SAFAS Regional Scheme in order to include other Southern African Countries seeking PEFC certification.   The SAFAS Regional Scheme provides the policy framework and administrative support towards the development of National Forest Management standards according to the PEFC requirements for standard development and in accordance with the PEFC Benchmark standard, PEFC ST 1003:2018. 

SAFAS (Sustainable African Forest Assurance Scheme) is well placed to assist its fellow SADC (Southern African Development Community) countries to address Sustainable Forest Management challenges and achieve and maintain a PEFC certification system. South Africa has the largest forestry industry in the region and already plays a leading role in collaborating with other countries in aspects such as pests and disease research, silviculture and provision of improved generic material. 

SAFAS aims to be part of realising the potential for  sustainable forestry in Southern Africa, with an understanding that tree planting can be an essential element in the fight against land degradation and climate change.