FSC has joined 100+ NGOs supporting the #Together4Forests movement.
How the FSC system works
FSC governance: Cultivating change through collaboration
Bringing people together moves our mission forward.
Forests play a vital role in our environment, communities, and economy.
Responsible forest management balances each of these interests to achieve outcomes that benefit us all.
That’s why the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is governed by a global network of over 1,000 individuals and member organizations representing environmental, social, and economic perspectives.
Our democratic and participative system brings these diverse perspectives together to find solutions that safeguard healthy, resilient forests worldwide.
We can be a force for forests everywhere
FSC membership is open to private enterprises; NGOs and other nonprofit organizations; academic and research institutions, or individuals looking to do their part to protect forests worldwide.
The FSC certification system: How responsible forestry takes root
FSC’s sustainable forestry standards translate into tangible actions that make a positive impact on the world’s forests.
Our certification system verifies sustainable sourcing of forest products and ecosystem services at every step of the value chain, from forest to consumer.
The most visible symbol of certification is the FSC label, which can be found on millions of products and is recognized by 56 per cent* of consumers around the world.
Every FSC label is backed by a diverse ecosystem of forest managers, businesses, nonprofit organizations, and others committed to upholding a common set of responsible forestry standards that support:
- zero deforestation
- safeguarding of ancient and endangered forests
- fair wage and work environment
- biodiversity preservation
- community rights, including the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Take a stand for our forests
Does your organization produce or sell products using forest-based materials like wood, fibre, or natural rubber? Show your commitment to responsible forestry by becoming FSC certified.
Enhancing the value of responsible forestry
We’re driven by a vision for a future where forests are valued for everything they have to offer. Using the responsible forestry standards at our core, we’re developing new solutions that recognize the true value of forests.
For example, our ecosystem services claims enable forest managers and their supporters to measure the impact of their sustainable forest management efforts on the vital ecosystem services that forests provide. These services include:
- supporting biodiversity
- storing carbon
- purifying water
- regenerating soil
- providing recreation.
Together, we can embrace the true value of forests
We’re looking for partners to collaborate on solutions for conserving and restoring the value of forests. See how we work alongside our strategic partners to bring the true value of forests to the world.
* GlobeScan Global Consumer Research, August 2021