FSC celebrates 30 years of championing sustainable forest management

Since its founding in 1994, FSC has championed sustainable forest management, spanning economic, social and environmental aspects of sustainability. With its rigorous and trusted forest certification system, FSC is contributing to healthy and resilient forests, upholding the rights of Indigenous Peoples and forest sector workers, promoting gender equality, and safeguarding biodiversity. Strong relationships with a diverse set of stakeholders are central to FSC’s mission and impact.

As of 2024, FSC’s impact across the globe includes:

• 160+ million hectares of forest certified worldwide
• 1,150+ members from 89 countries offering environmental, economic and social perspectives
• 300+ staff across 42 local offices extending FSC’s reach and advocacy
• 60,000+ certifications issued verifying sustainable practice
• 1,700+ brands holding an FSC promotional licence, helping drive awareness
• The FSC “check tree” logo on millions of products, representing the most recognized mark for responsible forestry worldwide.

Today, FSC's Forest Management and Chain of Custody standards, as well as other solutions like Verified Impact stand at the forefront of global environmental stewardship, addressing the most critical planetary challenges of our time. By focusing on climate action and biodiversity protection, whilst protecting the interests of forest owners, workers, local communities, and businesses, FSC’s unique approach contributes to multiple Sustainable Development Goals by safeguarding both environmental integrity and the vital livelihoods that depend on forest ecosystems.

To mark this significant anniversary, FSC is celebrating with valued members, allies and network partners, reflecting on three decades of collective effort and achievement, as well as reaffirming our commitment to promote sustainable forestry.

Subhra Bhattacharjee, Director General of FSC, looks ahead with optimism: "As we recognize this significant milestone, we are not only reflecting on our past achievements, but also charting a transformative path forward – one where we can build an even broader coalition to deliver the greatest possible impact and drive global efforts to make forest stewardship the norm.”

As FSC steps into its fourth decade, the organization is calling on every stakeholder - governments, communities, businesses, NGOs, and consumers - to join it in its mission and contribute towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Together, we can reshape the future and actualize the full potential of the world’s forests as vibrant ecosystems, rich in biodiversity, and resilient against climate change. The time to act is now.

For more information about FSC and its 30th anniversary celebrations, please visit www.fsc.org.