Vol.72, 
3 February 2025

On December 27, 2024, the Sustainable Green Ecosystem Council (SGEC), and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), were publicly announced as persons designated by the competent minister stipulated in Item 12 of Cabinet Order No. 1, which specifies the information in Article 6, Paragraph 2, Item 2 of the Act on Promotion of Use and Distribution of Legally-harvested Wood and Wood Products (Clean Wood Act). This means that, with this notice, SGEC and PEFC were officially designated as persons certifying that timber wood and related materials are highly unlikely to be illegally harvested under the Clean Wood Act. As a result, the claims of SGEC or PEFC certified or controlled sources on delivery slips etc. will be recognized as information to confirm legality under the Clean Wood Act. This notice will come into effect on April 1, 2025. 
For more details, click here. 

In light of the increasing inquiries about project certification, a mini-seminar titled "SDGs X Build Buildings in Project Certification" was held on December 11, 2024. The presentation covered an overview of the project certification system, an explanation of project certification process from a consultant who has engaged in a lot of project certifications, and an introduction of three consulting firms specializing in SGEC and PEFC certification. Among PEFC member countries, SGEC/PEFC Japan has been acclaimed by the PEFC International for having the highest number of project cases. We will continue our efforts to increase the number of project-certified buildings using SGEC/PEFC lumber throughout Japan.

For the fifth school visit study for students on a school excursion this year, we welcomed 14 high school students from Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture. They were highly interested in the SDGs, and we gave them a lecture on SGEC/PEFC Japan's global initiatives, focusing on the relationship between forest certification and the SDGs. The students surprized at the fact of rapid deforestation worldwide, and expressed their desire to be more environmentally conscious in their daily lives in the future. Also,ｗe received a handwritten thank-you letter from all of the students from the junior high school in Tokyo that we welcomed last time.They said that they learned about the rapid deforestation happening globally, as well as the various international efforts to protect forests. They also shared their thoughts on how they want to be more mindful in their future choices. We hope that this will further spark their interest in sustainability and environmental issues.

Rich in nature, history, hot springs, and local food, offering a peaceful and relaxing environment. Due to its charm, Tottori is loved and visitted by many tourists.

FM Certification No.: FAM-018
Registration Date: Nobember 12, 2024

Mainly deals in chemical products and materials. Focusing on providing quality materials, the company is also comitted in environmentally friendly product development and technological innovation.

COC Certification No.: SGSJP-SGEC-COC-187
Registration Date: December 6, 2024

Primarily engaged in the manufacture and sale of lumber, plywood, and building materials related products. Contributes to various industries such as construction and manufacturing by providing wood-based products.

COC Certification No.: SGSJP-SGEC-COC-188
Registration Date: December15, 2024

Focuses on the quality of wood and environmental considerations, and is also committed to sustainable wood use.

COC Certification No.: JAFTA-SGEC-COC-274
Registration Date: January 1, 2025

COC Certification No.: JAFTA-104
Registration Date: January 1, 2025

Focused not only on new construction but also on renovation and remodeling. The company also offers proposals for "eco-homes" and "Zero Energy Houses (ZEH)" with an emphasis on energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact.

COC Certification No.: JAFTA-SGEC-COC‐273
Registration Date: January 1, 2025