Does timber chain of custody really matter?

Chain of custody certification matters because anybody specifying and procuring timber typically expects the manufacturer to source the material responsibly. Certification demonstrates that wood and wood-based products come from sustainably managed sources and are processed appropriately on their way to the end user.

Any reputable manufacturer is happy to show their timber comes from sustainable and legal sources and explain the chain of custody certification they hold. Some suppliers may not hold certification but claim that the material they have sourced is certified. Certification is not just about applying a label to products; the label should also represent the ethos of responsibility and sustainability within the organisation.

Which organisations operate timber chain of custody schemes?

There are a number of organizations that offer chain of custody certifications, the largest of which are the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). We have opted for the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification for our timber products.

The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) includes the chain of custody among its assessment schemes. The PEFC's Chain of Custody certification tracks timber from the forest to the end product, giving complete confidence that any timber-based material used in the production process can be traced back to its source. It ensures that manufacturers cannot claim a product is certified if any of its timber content comes from a controversial source.

Accredited certification bodies verify that a company’s ‘wood flow accounting’ complies with the PEFC chain of custody standard. The standard also requires any company seeking certification to have appropriate management systems in place, which must incorporate the wood flow accounting. 

Which Marley timber products feature chain of custody certification?

Partnering with Marley, whether for a one-off project or multiple large developments, is a commitment to using quality timber that has been responsibly and sustainably sourced. From the battens in a pitched roof system, to cedar shingles and shakes, to anti-slip deck boards, all timber products offered by Marley have full chain of custody certification from PEFC.

Certification means every stage of processing has been audited, helping to protect the land and communities where the timber is grown. Using products with the PEFC chain of custody certification gives specifiers and procurement managers peace of mind. It makes gaining the relevant credits under an accreditation scheme like BREEAM more straightforward, as well as guaranteeing compliance with government procurement policies where applicable.

To find out more about, or obtain confirmation of, our timber chain of custody certification, contact us to discuss your project. Samples of timber products like shingles, shakes and decking can be requested via our website.