Public sector purchasing accounts for around 40% of timber imports into the UK. Central government introduced a timber procurement policy back in 2005 which requires central government departments, Executive Agencies and Non Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs), to procure timber and wood-based products from legal and sustainable sources.
It applies to all wood products including paper, furniture and timber used in construction and fit out. Local authorities are also beginning to develop responsible timber procurement policies. Certification schemes play an important role in the implementation of a responsible procurement policy by providing evidence of compliance. PEFC has therefore produced a publication designed to assist local authorities develop inclusive timber procurement policies.