How the Preferred by Nature Sustainability Framework Certification scheme is governed 

The Preferred by Nature Sustainability Framework Certification (PBN SFC) scheme operates under a governance system designed to support transparency, impartiality, accountability and stakeholder participation. 

The system defines how the scheme is managed, how standards and procedures are developed and revised, and how certification activities are independently assessed and overseen. 

The scheme owner and the certification body are separate legal entities, with different staff, reporting lines and responsibilities. The scheme is owned by Preferred by Nature F.M.B.A. in Denmark, while certification is carried out by Preferred by Nature OÜ in Estonia, which holds the accreditation under which all certification activities are performed and takes certification decisions independently. Both entities sit within the Preferred by Nature organisational umbrella. 

The scheme's governance structure also includes internal decision-making bodies, external stakeholder representation and mechanisms for stakeholder engagement and dispute resolution. 

Scheme governance documents 

The following documents describe the governance structure, procedures and requirements supporting the operation and integrity of the PBN SFC scheme. 

Governance structure, roles and responsibilities 

Explains how the PBN SFC scheme is governed, including the responsibilities of its governance bodies, decision-making processes, stakeholder participation and dispute handling. 

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Standard development and revision 

Describes how PBN SFC standards are developed, reviewed and revised, including stakeholder consultations, approval processes and transition arrangements. 

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Development and revision of SFC scheme documents 

Sets out the procedures for developing, reviewing, approving and publishing scheme documents other than normative standards, including governance procedures and supporting documents. 

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Requirements for accreditation bodies 

Defines the requirements for accreditation bodies overseeing certification bodies operating under Preferred by Nature Sustainability Framework Certification, including competence, impartiality, information sharing and cooperation with the scheme owner. 

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Assurance requirements 

Establishes the requirements for certification bodies conducting PBN SFC audits and certification activities, including auditor competence, certification decisions, surveillance, impartiality and quality assurance. 

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