How the FSC system works Uniting many voices under a common mission: ensuring forests for all, forever. What is FSC certification?The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies forests and forest-based products against defined sustainability standards. The FSC system operates through two linked certification types: Forest Management (FM) certification, which verifies that a forest is managed responsibly according to FSC's Principles and Criteria, and Chain of Custody (CoC) certification, which tracks FSC-certified material through every stage of processing, manufacturing, and distribution.How is a forest FSC certified?Certification is performed by independent, third-party Certification Bodies, not by FSC itself. A company applies to a Certification Body, undergoes an on-site audit, and receives a certificate valid for five years if compliant, with annual audits thereafter. Chain of Custody certification can cover single organizations, multi-site organizations, groups of independent organizations, or individual projects, and it allows material inputs from FSC-certified forests, reclaimed sources, or controlled-risk sources. Only certified entities may use the FSC label and make FSC claims on products, ensuring traceability from forest to market.Who governs FSC?FSC is governed by three chambers with equal voting rights. Our unique governance model unites 1,200+ members – from Indigenous Peoples to global companies – through equitable voting to represent environmental, social, and economic perspectives. This enables democratic decisions that drive lasting solutions for forests, people, and business. 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. Join us Demonstrate your commitment to contribute to ensuring healthy and resilient forests for all, forever, by becoming an FSC member. Learn more → The FSC label: How responsible forestry takes root 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. Learn more about our labels iStock Photo 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. Explore certification → Enhancing the value of responsible forestry FSC / Bablu Singh 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. Learn more 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. Learn more → * GlobeScan Global Consumer Research, August 2021
