I’m looking for every opportunity to talk about our latest round of public consultation because I want as many people as possible to participate in the process that will lead to the SFI 2010-2014 Standard. You have until next Monday (March 2) to comment on the new draft standard posted on our website, and we have begun regional workshops that will be held across North America.
This transparent standard development process means a lot to the SFI program – every time we open up the standard for comments, it gets stronger. As an example, the SFI 2005-2009 Standard added provisions to conserve old-growth forests, strengthen procurement and address invasive exotic species.
The changes proposed in the draft SFI 2010-2014 Standard reflect views we received during public consultation last summer – when we invited 2,000 individuals and organizations to comment, and publicized the process to reach the general public. Proposed changes address changing values and new issues – such as how forests can mitigate climate change and the emerging role of carbon management. Others suggest we require, rather than encourage, the use of trained loggers and resource professionals in our fiber sourcing program, and clarify the definition of Forests with Exception Conservation Value.
The SFI 2010-2014 Standard, which takes effect on Jan. 1, 2010, is developed by the SFI Resources Committee and approved by SFI Board of Directors. The members of both represent environmental, social and economic sectors equally and, like me, I know they are keenly interested in your views.
