Respondents to surveys run by Forest Research were asked to report on volumes certified. 67% of private sector softwood removals in 2016 were from certified sources (Table 2.28). The percentage of private sector softwood removals that are certified has fluctuated over recent years; industry experts have indicated a general reduction in the level of certification amongst smaller estates and an increase in production from larger estates.

As nearly all removals from Forestry Commission, Natural Resources Wales and Forest Service woodland are certified, this equates to around 83% of all softwood removals in 2016 from certified sources.

80% of sawmills’ roundwood consumption in 2016 was certified. For round fencing manufacturers, 70% of total softwood consumption was certified.

Table 2.28 Per cent of volume certified, 2007-2016

^{Source: industry surveys}