Control Union – Certification

ErBo

ErBo (Erkenningsregeling Bosaannemers) is the Recognition Scheme for Forestry Contractors in the Netherlands, designed to guarantee quality in forestry work. It is intended for contractors seeking to demonstrate their professionalism to clients. Control Union provides independent, third-party audits to facilitate ErBo certification, confirming adherence to the scheme’s high standards for quality, safety, and environmental care.

Control Union – Certification

    What is ErBo?

    The ErBo scheme provides forest owners with the assurance that certified contractors operate professionally, with respect for the environment and vulnerable species. For forestry contractors, achieving ErBo certification is a key market differentiator, demonstrating a commitment to quality that meets client requirements. Compliance is maintained through an annual audit conducted by an independent body such as Control Union, which provides credible confirmation of a contractor’s high standards for safety and environmental stewardship.

    Why choose Control Union as your certification partner?

    • Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.

    • We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.

    • Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.

    Features of ErBo

    Control Union – Certification
    1.

    Environmental stewardship

    Demonstrates guaranteed attention to the environment during all forestry operations, meeting client expectations for sustainability.

    2.

    Safe working conditions

    Ensures a focus on safe working conditions for employees, including opportunities for professional training and development.

    3.

    Professional client agreements

    Establishes clear and professional agreements with clients, providing transparency and building trust from the start.

    4.

    Protection of vulnerable nature

    Mandates adequate care for vulnerable plants and animals, showcasing a commitment to biodiversity and responsible land management.

    5.

    Independent annual audit

    Guarantees ongoing quality and credibility through an annual independent audit, confirming continued compliance with standards.

    Commodities

    This standard is applicable to the following commodities:

    • Forest, wood & paper

    Control Union – Sustainable commodities
    In a constantly changing environment, we are working with supply chain partners to create a demonstrably more sustainable future
    James Schadenberg – Control Union Certifications

    This is how certification with Control Union works

    In outline, we go through these 6 steps. We’ll tell you all about it at the start of the project.

    Applying for certification

    Apply by using the contact details at the bottom of this page

    Determining scope of certification

    Together, we discuss the details and scope of your application. Which processes, products and/or locations would you like to have certified?

    Quotation & contract

    After establishing exact scopes and auditing times, you’ll receive our quote.

    After agreement, you may start the preparation phase.

    Audit planning, preparation, execution and reporting

    You will be assigned one of our qualified and independent auditors. We’ll reach out to you to check if you’re ready for the initial audit. If needed, we’ll provide additional information to help to prepare.

    Good to go? The initial audit is planned, carried out and reported.

    Review

    During the audit, we will assess if you meet the requirements. After that, we will confirm if you’ve fully complied, if there are things to improve, or if there are any non-conformities.

    Together, we will discuss our findings, plan of action and planning in case of non-conformities. In case your chosen program includes a logo, we will discuss this too.

    Receiving your certificate

    If all non-conformities are resolved and everything has been assessed positively, the certification decision follows.

    Depending on the type of certification:
    • you are allowed to trade using the certificate
    • you are executing the process according to the guidelines
    • you are allowed to name the certificate on your website
    Some certificates allow you to use the certificate’s logo. We will provide you with guidelines for this.

    The certification process does not end here, annual audits ensure consistent quality!

    Global coverage, local knowledge

    Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions. As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications? Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Proud colleagues
    2025-05-14 PCU Zwolle Frank Jeurink-min

    Request ErBo or freely discuss?

    We are happy to help. Simply fill in the form below, or contact us on +31 (0) 38 42 60 121

    Name(Required)
    Independent tailor-made services

    What makes you unique, we make demonstrable

    Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.

    Control Union - supply chain