At the end of 2007, SCA was criticized for deficient nature conservation in conjunction with certain forest fellings. The audit of SCA’s compliance with the Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) forestry standards also revealed shortcomings. Since then a detailed action program has been developed and launched to ensure that the mistakes made will not be repeated.
“For example, we are currently training all of our nearly 100 felling teams. They have received training previously, but they may have a number of new operators since then, and above all we are firmly emphasizing how important it is that nature conservation instructions are complied with in every detail,” says Björn Lyngfelt, Information Manager at SCA Forest Products in Sundsvall.
In addition to the short-term actions, SCA Skog is working to assure the quality of the nature conservation work in a more long-term perspective. This effort includes everything from planning routines, follow-up and feedback of results to training and competence matters.
“Our follow-up to date indicates that the level of nature conservation is good,” says Björn Lyngfelt. “However, we need to do more so that we do a sufficiently good job in all respects and at all times.”
SCA Skog will undergo a renewed FSC audit within a few months.
To read the press release from SCA Forest Products (23 November 2007), go to http://www.forestproducts.sca.com/ and click on “News.”