Statement on SBP Approval Status of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

The Certification Body, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), became an ‘SBP-approved’ Certification Body in May 2016.

As part of the SBP’s processes and procedures, a Certification Body is evaluated against SBP’s requirements (SBP Standard 3). Where those requirements are not fulfilled a non-conformity is raised against the Certification Body’s own process and procedures. In cases where an approved Certification Body does not effectively implement corrective action of a major non-conformity and demonstrate conformity within the required timeframe, SBP shall immediately start the suspension process.

Consequently, PwC has been suspended (effective date 23 January 2017) for SBP biomass producer (including Supply Base Evaluation) and supply chain certification for Canada and the USA.

Once evidence has been provided that the major non-conformities in question have been closed, and providing the other SBP requirements are still fully met, SBP will be able to lift the suspension. However, the period of suspension shall not exceed six months unless specifically authorised by SBP.

Until the suspension is lifted, PwC shall not enter into new agreements for certification, and may only perform initial certification services with explicit written approval from SBP. PwC shall, however, continue to conduct surveillance audits for existing clients during the period of suspension