Certifications

	Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) Council In August 2009 M.A. Silva became the first and presently the only company to achieve the PEFC Council certification. The certification is awarded only to companies that employ strict “chain of custody” processes. The chain of custody certification provides an assurance mechanism to purchasers that they are buying cork products solely produced from sustainable forests.
	ClimateSmart^™ Program In late 2008, M.A. Silva became the first cork processing facility in California to participate in the ClimateSmart^™ program by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). The first-of-its-kind ClimateSmart^™ program allows us to positively impact climate change by balancing out the greenhouse gas emissions.
	Green Certified Business In 2009, M.A. Silva became the first cork processing facility in California to be recognized by Green Certified Business Sonoma County. The program addresses all aspects of the business’ operations, energy usage, recycling efforts and waste production.