A higher standard for pulp and paper certification
The Enhanced Singapore Green Labelling Scheme is a specialised certification tier introduced in January 2017 for pulp and paper products — addressing supply chain risks that standard environmental certification does not cover.
Why the Enhanced SGLS was created
The standard SGLS certifies products across nine categories based on life-cycle environmental performance. However, the pulp and paper sector presents specific supply chain 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 risks directly, requiring certified 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 five additional 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 operational early detection and suppression system must be in place. Companies must show documented fire prevention protocols and response capabilities.
Zero-burning compliance
Land clearing through burning is not permitted under any circumstances. Plantations must comply with zero-burning requirements at all times.
Supply chain transparency
Companies must provide documentation demonstrating full traceability from plantation to mill, covering all stages of the production chain.
Continuous improvement
Certified companies are expected to demonstrate year-on-year improvement in their environmental performance metrics as a condition of maintaining certification.
A world first in NGO-led 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 schemes. The accreditation is awarded by the Singapore Accreditation Council (SAC) and is subject to regular surveillance audits.
Who should apply
The Enhanced SGLS is designed for manufacturers and distributors of pulp and paper products who: