Saw mills, envelope makers and printers helped nudge the total number to 519, making the UK a close second to the USA with 522 certificates, said the FSC.

Firms that recently won the certificate include M-real and Scottish independent papermaker Tullis Russell.

Britain's certificate holders represent over 10% of the total number held across the world, said the FSC.

"The rapid spread of FSC certification reflects the increasing number of timber and paper users in the UK that are introducing sustainable procurement policies," said an FSC spokesman.

"There is a growing commitment to credible certification and responsible forest management on the part of the timber trade."