Conserving forests over the long term also helps communities, governments or businesses that own the forest to generate tangible economic benefits through careful resource management.

This mechanism relies on the existence of tools and systems to help those who trade or use wood, wood products (such as paper) and non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to ensure that they are of a legal or sustainable origin.

In other words, that they are not – even unknowingly – supporting the illegal timber trade or the irresponsible management of the worlds forests.

Since its inception ProForest has been involved in supporting responsible forest management and the market mechanisms which link responsible production to responsible purchasers and consumers.

Our services include:

• Reviewing existing forest management practices and developing action plans to move towards certification
• Developing purchasing or investment policies for forests and forest products
• Analysing supply chains for wood, paper and non-timber forest products
• Carrying out internal audits and making recommendations for improved practices.
• Reviewing available forest certification schemes and developing guidance on which are appropriate for a clients policy objectives.
• Training in understanding and meeting the requirements of forest management standards
• Carrying out High Conservation Value Forest (HCVF) assessments and providing training on HCV identification, management and monitoring.

ProForest has also been involved as a technical advisor for FLEGT (Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade).