Metsä Group announces the creation of its own PEFC group certification program for 2026

In 2026, Metsä Group will launch its own PEFC group certification program, which will allow additional members and contracted customers of the Metsäliitto Cooperative to certify their forest holdings.

According to Juha Jumppanen, Executive Vice President of Wood Supply and Forest Services, the initiative seeks to strengthen the role of PEFC certification, take greater responsibility for compliance and ensure a continuous supply of certified wood for industrial customers.

The company stated that another key reason for creating its own program is the insufficient commitment of certain actors within the current regional system, who, in its view, do not fully meet certification requirements nor correct identified deficiencies. For this reason, Metsä Group considers it essential to maintain direct control of certification management.

As one of Finland’s largest forest industry operators, the company highlights the importance of basing its activities on sustainable forest management. Retailers and end consumers are increasingly interested in the origin of wood, sustainable practices and biodiversity protection.

Forest certification is a globally recognized tool used to demonstrate ecological, economic and social sustainability in forest operations. In Finland, most commercial forests are certified—an exceptional situation compared to other countries. PEFC Finland plays a key role by setting requirements that exceed legal standards. Since its introduction in 2000, the PEFC system has contributed to improvements in biodiversity, water quality and working conditions.

 

The company noted that members and contracted customers will see changes starting in 2026, when the PEFC criteria will carry even more weight and enrollment in the new group certification program will be formalized.

Jumppanen emphasized the importance of ensuring that forest owners understand the benefits of PEFC certification.

In addition to its new PEFC program, Metsä Group will continue to offer access to the FSC® certification system through group certification. Both systems can coexist within the same forest property. For those seeking a higher level of nature management, the company also offers the Metsä Group Plus model, which requires the preservation of additional retention trees and other biodiversity-supporting elements.

The company added that it pays a premium for certified wood compared to non-certified wood, with FSC-certified wood receiving a significantly higher premium than PEFC-certified material. Forest owners who adopt the Metsä Group Plus model also receive an extra bonus per hectare.