Chain of Custody certification in Romania: profile and perceptions of FSC certified companies

The purpose of this study was to assess the evolution and profiles of CoC certified companies in Romania and to explore the main challenges they are facing. The number of CoC certified companies has increased rapidly in recent years; by the end of 2011, 86 companies had been FSC certified in Romania, producing and exporting (especially to Western Europe) a wide variety of certified wood products. The primary motivations for obtaining CoC certification relate to the market benefits of the companies and good reputation/international recognition. The certification cost is considered less relevant, while the lack of certified raw material on the local market and some of the FSC standard requirements were identified as more important impediments to certification. The study revealed the need for some measures to stimulate the development of CoC certification, including some fiscal facilities for certified companies, a stronger awareness campaign on the benefits of certification and a more transparent harvesting licensing process.