This week we launched the second public comment period for the proposed SFI 2015-2021 Standard and the SFI Chain of Custody Standard. Our open, transparent review process is an essential component of the SFI Program, and we invite anyone interested in the future of our forests to take part and provide input.
The draft SFI 2015-2021 Standard was developed under the direction of the SFI Resources Committee and utilized comments from the first public comment period. It includes new performance measures to conserve biodiversity in fiber sourcing; limit conversion of one forest type to another; and expand the definition of “controversial sources,” which are not allowed in SFI-labeled products.
The Standard revision process involves a broad range of stakeholders who care about the future of our forests, including public and private landowners, forest sector representatives, indigenous communities, conservation groups, industry, academia and government officials. We look forward to hearing from these individuals and organizations who count on the SFI Standard as a proof point for responsible forestry in communities across North America.
While we have reached out to nearly 10,000 of these organizations and individuals, we welcome anyone interested in the future of our forests to provide their input, including of course our Good for Forests readers.
You can submit your comments online for this working draft now through March 6th. We also invite you participate in person at one of the nine public Standards Review workshops across the U.S. and Canada. If you are unable to attend a regional workshop, we will be offering a facilitated webinar workshop.
We hope you will take this opportunity to shape the future of forests across North America by providing your input on the draft SFI 2015-2021 Standard. Together we can ensure healthy, thriving forests for generations to come.
