About two-thirds of Timber Trade Federation (TTF) members have so far signalled their intentions to implement due diligence systems.
Nearly all those members have elected to use the TTF’s recently relaunched Responsible Purchasing Policy, a risk management tool which demonstrates companies have shown due diligence in avoiding importing illegal wood.
The TTF made the introduction of a due diligence system mandatory for all members a year ago, with members needing to either choose the RPP or another due diligence system, or formulate a scheme of their own by the end of 2009.
TTF chief executive John White said workshops held by TTF sustainability executive Graham Bruford had been successful in explaining due diligence to members and challenging misconceptions on the issue.
He said member companies that didn’t communicate their intentions with regard to due diligence or didn’t implement systems in 2010 risked having their membership terminated.
“But I’m hoping we will be able to persuade everyone to come with us,” he added.
The TTF’s Country Guidance drafts, outlining risks in supplier countries, are currently out to consultation.
