AKZ Responsible sourcing policy

Initial release:  01.09.2022                                                                                         

Last update:     01.09.2022

Responsible Sourcing Policy

1. Introduction

The Responsible Sourcing Policy (Policy) establishes a set of principles and rules adopted by SIA AKZ (AKZ) in relation to AKZ’s sourcing of wood and wood products (Wood).

2. AKZ commitments

AKZ undertakes to source Wood for production responsibly.

3. Objectives

The AKZ supply chain is organized to ensure Wood is harvested using sustainable forestry practice and originates from legal sources. 

AKZ complies with all applicable legal and regulatory obligations as defined under Latvian law.

AKZ also meets the requirements of the EU Timber Regulations and the UK Timber Regulations.

AKZ is certified for Chain of Custody by both the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certifications (PEFC).

AKZ does not source Wood that falls under any of the following conditions:

• illegally harvested;
• coming from protected areas or regions under official consideration for protection, unless logging is fully compliant with national conservation regulations;
• from forests where logging threatens areas of high conservation value;
• from areas being converted from forest or woodland ecosystems to plantations or non-forest uses, unless the conversion can be justified by a clear social and environmental benefit; or
• harvested in violation of traditional or civil rights.

AKZ utilises a full traceability system to ensure that Wood originate from legal sources.

AKZ requires suppliers to follow similar principles in their procurement processes.

4. Application

The Policy applies to all AKZ operations,  employees, and business partners. Where AKZ does not have operating control, we encourage our partners to demonstrate the commitments reflected in the Policy. 

Any AKZ employee with queries about the Policy or concerns regarding perceived deviations from the Policy, should promptly contact their direct manager or senior management. Alternatively, AKZ encourage reporting through the AKZ Whistleblowing Policy.

5. Policy Changes

AKZ reserves the right to make amendments to the Policy without prior notice.