About the scheme
A higher standard for pulp and paper certification
The Enhanced Singapore Green Labelling Scheme (Enhanced SGLS) is a specialised certification tier introduced in January 2017 for pulp and paper products. It was developed in response to growing concerns about peatland degradation and forest fires linked to pulp and paper manufacturing — issues not adequately addressed by standard environmental certification at the time.
ISO/IEC 17065 Accredited
Launched January 2017
Pulp & Paper Products
Why Enhanced SGLS was created
The standard Singapore Green Labelling Scheme certifies products across nine categories based on life-cycle environmental performance. However, the pulp and paper sector presents specific environmental risks that go beyond product-level assessment — particularly the management of peatland ecosystems and the risk of fires on plantations in Southeast Asia.
The Enhanced SGLS was created to address these supply chain-level risks directly, requiring companies to demonstrate responsible land management practices as a condition of certification. This makes it one of the most rigorous pulp and paper certifications available in Asia.
What the Enhanced SGLS requires
In addition to all standard SGLS criteria, companies applying for Enhanced SGLS certification must meet the following requirements:
- Peatland management — Companies must demonstrate responsible management of peatland areas within or adjacent to their plantation operations, including maintaining peat integrity and minimising drainage impacts.
- Fire management — An early detection and suppression system must be in place and operational. Companies must show evidence of fire prevention protocols and response capabilities.
- Zero-burning compliance — Plantations must comply with zero-burning requirements. Land clearing through burning is not permitted under any circumstances.
- Supply chain transparency — Companies must provide documentation of their supply chain, demonstrating traceability from plantation to mill.
- Continuous improvement — Certified companies are expected to demonstrate year-on-year improvement in their environmental performance metrics.
A world first in NGO certification
In 2019, SEC became the first non-governmental organisation (NGO) certifying body in the world to receive ISO/IEC 17065:2012 accreditation for pulp and paper products. This international standard governs the competence, consistent operation, and impartiality of certification bodies — meaning Enhanced SGLS certification carries the same rigour and credibility as government-backed certification schemes.
This accreditation was awarded by the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC), an internationally recognised accreditation body, and is subject to regular surveillance audits to maintain its standing.
Who should apply
The Enhanced SGLS is designed for manufacturers and distributors of pulp and paper products who:
- Operate plantations or source from plantations in Southeast Asia, particularly on or near peatland areas
- Wish to demonstrate supply chain-level environmental responsibility to procurement teams and regulators
- Are responding to procurement requirements that specify ISO/IEC 17065 accredited certification
- Want to access markets in Singapore, Japan, Australia and other GEN member countries where enhanced certification provides a competitive advantage
Companies outside Southeast Asia with verified sustainable supply chains are also eligible to apply.
Interested in Enhanced SGLS certification?
Contact the SGLS Secretariat to discuss your product’s eligibility, understand the criteria that apply to your category, and receive guidance on the application process.