SINGAPORE - A consumer group has expressed its concern about "the havoc created in the region by the irresponsible burning of forests".

In a statement on Wednesday, Consumers International (CI) also urged the public to address the problem.

"CI is calling on all consumers to stop buying products produced by companies involved in the purchase or sourcing of wood, paper and/or pulp products that cause the haze," the not-for-profit organisation said.

"CI believes that consumers should send a strong signal to the errant companies through their purchasing power and refuse to support companies which are contributing to this environmental disaster by their irresponsible practices."

The United Kingdom-registered federation urged consumers to buy products with internationally recognised green labels such as the Forest Stewardship Certification (FSC).

CI has over 240 member organisations in 120 countries. The Consumers Association of Singapore (Case) is a member.