What is MTCS/PEFC certified wood?

In May of 2009, the Malaysia Timber Certification Council (MTCC) announced in conjunction with the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) the first ever and currently the only Southeast Asian certification scheme endorsed by the PEFC.  This new scheme called the Malaysia Timber Certification Scheme (MTCS) is jointly endorsed by the PEFC.  Wood products manufactured in accordance with this certification are referred to as MTCS/PEFC certified wood products.

The PEFC is currently the largest forest certification programme, representing more than 200 million hectares of certified forests worldwide. 

According to the PEFC, obtaining PEFC Sustainable Forest Management certification demonstrates that management practices meet requirements for best practice in sustainable forest management, including:

1. Biodiversity of forest ecosystems is maintained or enhanced

2. The range of ecosystem services that forests provide is sustained

• they provide food, fibre, biomass and wood

• they are a key part of the water cycle, act as sinks capturing and storing carbon, and prevent soil erosion

• they provide habitats and shelter for people and wildlife; and

• they offer spiritual and recreational benefits

3. Chemicals are substituted by natural alternatives or their use is minimized

4. Workers' rights and welfare are protected

5. Local employment is encouraged

6. Indigenous peoples' rights are respected

7. Operations are undertaken within the legal framework and following best practices

In our commitment to provide plywood products that are sourced from responsibly managed forests, Asia Plywood Company is proud to produce and supply MTCS/PEFC certified tropical wood material to all of our customers.  This certification scheme remains the benchmark for forest certification programs in Southeast Asia. 

Asia Plywood Company is Chain of Custody (CoC) certified by the PEFC.