Uruguay has become the latest Latin American country to submit its national forest certification scheme for PEFC endorsement. As part of the independent assessment, stakeholders globally are invited to submit feedback and comments on the Uruguayan Forest Certification Scheme before 26 September 2010.

"With forestry being one of the most important and fastest growing sectors in Uruguay, the sustainable management of the forest resource is of fundamental importance to ensure the provision of long term environmental, social and economic benefits," said Ben Gunneberg, PEFC International Secretary General."The current assessment analyses the compliance of certification requirements of the Uruguayan Forest Certification Scheme with PEFC's internationally accepted Sustainability Benchmarks."

Global stakeholder consultation is an important part of the assessment, enabling all interested parties to provide insights and information on the scheme's compatibility with PEFC requirements.

"One of PEFC's unique features is that it enables the independent development of national standards tailored to the political, economic, social, environmental and cultural realities of the respective countries," explained Mr. Gunneberg. "These standards must at the same time meet PEFC's global requirements, which is verified through the assessment process."

In addition to the independent assessment and stakeholder consultation, the assessment report itself is subject to a review by a Panel of Experts and elaborations by the Board of Directors before PEFC members vote on the recognition of the national system the organization.

If approved, Uruguay would become the third Latin American country featuring a PEFC-endorsed national forest certification system.

Please submit your comments by 26 September using PEFC's Online Consultation Tool.