PEFC has published the second edition of PEFC ST 2001:2020, PEFC Trademarks Rules – Requirements, introducing updated requirements for the use of PEFC trademarks on products and in promotional communications.
The revised standard responds to changes in European Union requirements concerning environmental information and sustainability labels. It aims to ensure that the use of PEFC trademarks is accurate, transparent and non-misleading.
Key changes
Off-product use of PEFC trademarks
When using PEFC trademarks in promotional communications, organisations need to make clear what PEFC is and how the trademarks relate to the activities covered by their trademarks licence.
This helps audiences understand the scope of certification or the activities associated with PEFC, reducing the risk of misleading impressions.
Use of the PEFC initials
The standard introduces and clarifies requirements for using the “PEFC” initials, including the provision of the PEFC website address and the PEFC trademarks licence number in the cases specified by the standard.
Label messages and communications
Requirements for label messages have been updated to ensure that information accompanying the PEFC trademarks is clear and appropriate to its context. Organisations need to select messages that are suitable for the label type and the activities permitted under the standard.
PEFC website address on labels
The revised standard updates the requirements for displaying the PEFC website address on labels. Certain labelling options are subject to specific conditions and prior approval as required by the standard.
These points provide a general overview. Organisations should consult the full standard to determine the requirements applicable to their particular use of the PEFC trademarks.
Entry into force and transition
The second edition of PEFC ST 2001:2020 entered into force on 5 October 2026. Existing PEFC trademarks users have a two-year transition period to adopt the revised requirements.
Organisations and businesses are encouraged to review their use of PEFC trademarks on products, packaging, websites, promotional materials and other communication channels, and to plan the necessary updates.
For communications directed at the EU market, organisations also need to comply with applicable legal requirements. The PEFC transition period does not replace or extend legal compliance deadlines.
Reference materials
To support organisations, businesses and other stakeholders in understanding the updated requirements, the Vietnam Forest Certification Center (VFCC) has prepared a Vietnamese reference translation of the second edition of PEFC ST 2001:2020.
- English standard: Available here.
- Vietnamese reference translation: Available here.
In the event of any differences in interpretation, the English version published by PEFC is the reference.
