Certification Services
At Lochan & Co., we provide comprehensive certification services to support sustainable forestry and responsible wood sourcing. Our certification services align with the
National and International Standards, ensuring compliance with sustainable forest management practices and responsible trade of forest products.
Our Certification Services Include
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Forest Management Certification (FM Certification) – Verifies that forest divisions comply with sustainable forest management criteria as per IFWCS.
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Trees Outside Forests (ToF) Management Certification – Certifies responsible management of trees and plantations outside traditional forest areas.
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Chain of Custody (CoC) Certification – Ensures traceability of certified forest products from origin to final processing and sale.
Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme
The Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS) is a national initiative aimed at promoting sustainable forest management and responsible use of forest resources. It provides a structured certification process that supports agroforestry, commercial forestry, and the wood-based industry in India.
The Scheme is Designed to:
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Encourage sustainable management of forests and trees outside forests (ToF).
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Provide market incentives for forest divisions, plantations, and tree growers implementing sustainable forestry practices.
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Promote responsible sourcing of both timber and non-timber forest products (NTFPs).
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Support businesses in adhering to sustainability standards for international and domestic markets.
The IFWCS is backed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC), Government of India, ensuring its credibility and alignment with national and international environmental policies.
Benefits are Obtained with IFWCS Certification
Organizations and businesses opting for IFWCS certification gain multiple advantages, including:
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Sustainable Resource Management
Certification ensures that forests & tree-based resources are managed sustainably, balancing ecological, social, & economic needs.
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Market Recognition & Trade Benefits
IFWCS-certified products are preferred in national and international markets due to their compliance with sustainable forestry standards.
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Access to Incentives & Green Credits
Organizations can benefit from government schemes such as the Green Credit Program (GCP) for sustainable forestry and ecosystem conservation.
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Regulatory Compliance & Risk Reduction
IFWCS certification helps businesses meet environmental, social, & governance (ESG) requirements, reducing regulatory & ensuring long-term sustainability.
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Improved Supply Chain Transparency
The Chain of Custody (CoC) Certification provides traceability for wood and non-timber forest products, ensuring responsible sourcing from certified areas.
Certification Process
The certification process under IFWCS follows a structured and transparent methodology to ensure credibility and compliance. The process includes:
Step 1: Application Submission
Applicants (forest divisions, ToF growers, or wood-based industries) submit a formal application along with management plans and supporting documents.
Step 2: Pre-Assessment & Documentation Review
An initial assessment is conducted to verify readiness for certification.
Step 3: Field Assessment & Audit
Certified auditors conduct on-site evaluations to assess compliance with IFWCS standards.
Step 4: Certification Decision
Upon successful audit completion, certification is awarded, and the entity is listed as IFWCS-certified.
Step 5: Surveillance & Renewal
Annual surveillance ensures continued compliance, with renewal audits conducted every five years
Processes for Handling Appeals and Complaints
At Lochan & Co., we are committed to ensuring transparency, fairness, and accountability in our certification services. We have a structured mechanism in place to handle appeals and complaints related to the Indian Forest and Wood Certification Scheme (IFWCS).
Our process ensures that all stakeholders, including applicants, certificate holders, and third parties, can voice their concerns and seek resolutions efficiently.
For further details or to submit an appeal/complaint, please contact at bivash.ranjan@lochanco.com