The Paarl Media Group has received the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC 01-31-346) in addition to being the first African printing organisation who received the Forest Stewardship Council ( FSC) chain of custody certification.
The paper and printing industry is often labelled as having a negative environmental effect but in reality this is a misnomer and print operations can be sustainable and responsible. “The PEFC accreditation applies to the Paarl Media Cape and Paarl Media Paarl plants and ensures that a fully audited and verified supply chain is used from forest to end use,” says Christoff Botha, executive director: heatset, Paarl Media Group.
“This certification confirms the paper used in the printing process originates from legal and sustainable sources. It warrants that biodiversity is maintained and enhanced; hazardous chemicals are prohibited and that the use of pesticides is minimised,” says Botha.
The Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification is the world’s largest forest certification system which sets standards and transforms forest management around the world. Two thirds of all certified forests worldwide are certified by this organisation. This will ensure that everyone will be able to enjoy the environmental, social and economic benefits of forests for a long time to come. There are approximately 16 000 companies and organisations worldwide that have achieved PEFC Chain of Custody certification.