Forests at the Heart of Circularity FSC’s Circularity Hub explores how forest materials can be used responsibly, reused and recirculated. All while protecting ecosystems and supporting the people who depend on them. The Role of Forests in the Circular Economy Forests can be the backbone of a thriving circular economy — a future where resources flow like nature and waste disappears. But today, demand for forest-based products is rising, ecosystems are under strain, and recycling and renewable materials alone are not enough to enable the planet and our forests to keep pace. To build for the future we hope for, we must slow consumption, extend product lifecycles, and keep materials in circulation at their highest value. Only then can forests continue to deliver climate stability, biodiversity, and the resources we all depend on. FSC Today – and the Gaps FSC has been championing forest regeneration for over 30 years with the FSC Recycled label directly supporting recycling over the last 15 years. But recycling and renewable fibres aren’t enough. Circularity also means reusing, repairing, and maximising material use. That’s why we’re exploring whether and how to expand to cover more circular principles. Why This Matters Now Global demand for forest products could rise 400% by 2050. Without smarter fibre use, forests will experience unsustainable pressure. As we face climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource scarcity, we must get smarter about the raw materials we use, how often we use them, and why. The good news? Regenerative materials from forests can replace fossil-based inputs. But the challenge is real: demand is growing faster than nature can regenerate, and legislation around the world is pushing for enforcement of circular practices. Download - FSC's Introduction paper on circularity → Introducing the FSC Circularity Hub The FSC Circularity Hub is an innovation sandbox to test, debate, and refine ideas that could future-proof forests and FSC’s role. Some proposals may feel radical, but fresh thinking is essential. Our ultimate goal is to reduce pressure on forests to a level where we can sustain healthy ecosystems and deliver on the promise of FSC: Forests for All, Forever. Exploring New Solutions We are exploring new solutions and ideas. None of these are final. They are ideas under discussion with our members and stakeholders. Certification of reused and repaired products The FSC Circularity Hub proposes expanding FSC’s Chain of Custody standard to include circular models—repair, take-back, and leasing—and new certification for reuse. Distinct labels like FSC Reused would help businesses and consumers identify refurbished products and integrate credible retention systems. Watch the video → Recognition of non-forest bio-based fibres FSC could pilot ways to allow non-forest waste materials certified under pre-approved sustainability schemes to be included in FSC-certified products on equal footing with FSC materials—broadening circular options while maintaining rigorous assurance and transparency across supply chains. FSC and the Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials (RSB) have obtained funding from the ISEAL Alliance (International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labelling Alliance) Innovation Fund, supported by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), to build a recognition framework. Read more here. Watch the video → Tools for cascading use of wood FSC could develop three practical tools to put cascading principles into action, helping companies use materials at their highest value. Each tool would be voluntary, with optional third-party verification for reporting and claims, and aligned with evolving legislation and industry practices. Watch the video → Rewarding forest owners over multiple use cycles FSC could create a voluntary royalty system that rewards forest owners when fibres from their forests are reused. Companies would pay to access verified origin data, and those fees would be redistributed to forest owners, providing financial incentives for continued protection of forest ecosystems. Join the conversation Circularity is a shared journey. We work closely with FSC members, FSC teams, partners and a consortium of thought leaders from academia, industry and NGOs exploring ideas that can evolve into real world systems—reducing waste, easing pressure on forests, and advancing a truly circular economy. Get in touch to join a pilot, share your expertise or help shape future standards. Contact us at circularity@fsc.org → Become a forest steward We all have a role to play in protecting the future of our forests. Learn how you can join the FSC ecosystem and start making a difference today. Individuals → Businesses → Forest Managers →