Standards & Guidelines
Rigorous, science-based criteria for responsible forest management
Our Standards Framework
Timber Bureau standards are developed through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder process and updated regularly to reflect the latest scientific understanding and best practices.
Principle 1: Legal Compliance
Forest operations must comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and internationally ratified treaties. This includes property rights, labor laws, and environmental regulations.
Principle 2: Workers' Rights
Forest workers and contractors must be treated fairly, paid equitably, and provided safe working conditions. Discrimination and forced labor are prohibited.
Principle 3: Indigenous Rights
The rights of indigenous peoples to own, use, and manage their lands must be recognized and respected. Free, prior, and informed consent is required.
Principle 4: Community Relations
Forest operations should maintain or enhance the social and economic well-being of local communities and respect their traditional rights.
Principle 5: Forest Benefits
Forest management should promote efficient use of forest products and services to ensure long-term economic viability while maintaining environmental and social values.
Principle 6: Environmental Impact
Forest operations must protect biodiversity, water resources, soils, and unique ecosystems. Environmental impact assessments are required for significant operations.
Principle 7: Management Plan
A comprehensive management plan must document objectives, activities, and monitoring procedures. The plan must be regularly updated based on monitoring results.
Principle 8: Monitoring
Regular monitoring must assess forest condition, yields, chain of custody, and social and environmental impacts relative to management objectives.
Principle 9: High Conservation Values
Areas of high conservation value must be identified, maintained, and enhanced. Management activities must not threaten these critical areas.
Standards Development
Our transparent, consensus-based approach ensures standards reflect diverse perspectives.
Multi-Stakeholder Process
Timber Bureau standards are developed through an inclusive process involving:
- Environmental Chamber: Conservation organizations, ecologists, and environmental scientists
- Social Chamber: Indigenous peoples' organizations, unions, and community groups
- Economic Chamber: Forest owners, industry associations, and trade groups
Each chamber has equal weight in decision-making, ensuring balanced outcomes that serve all interests.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our standards undergo a comprehensive review every five years, with interim updates possible when significant new scientific evidence or stakeholder concerns emerge. The revision process includes public consultation periods.
While our core principles remain consistent globally, regional standards adapt indicators and thresholds to local ecological, social, and legal contexts. Regional working groups develop these adaptations through local stakeholder consultation.
Non-conformities are addressed through corrective action requests. Minor issues require resolution within specified timeframes. Major non-conformities can result in suspension or termination of certification if not adequately addressed.
All stakeholders can participate in public consultations during standards development. You can also submit proposals for standards amendments through our formal process. Contact us to learn about current consultation opportunities.
Access Full Standards Documentation
Download our complete standards documents, implementation guides, and supporting resources.
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