Reaffirming FSC’s Integrity and Independence in the Remedy Process

We are aware of recent media coverage of Kim Carstensen, former Director General of FSC International, and his engagement as a sustainability advisor to APRIL—a company currently engaged in FSC’s remedy process.

We recognize that this development has prompted certain concerns and questions. We take these concerns seriously and would like to clarify the facts and reaffirm FSC’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and robust governance.

Kim Carstensen concluded his term as Director General in October 2024, and remained under contract with FSC till end-December 2024. His subsequent engagement with APRIL is independent of FSC and occurred after his employment with FSC ended. FSC has established protocols to manage potential conflicts of interest in such cases, designed to safeguard the integrity and credibility of our processes.

FSC’s remedy and reassociation processes are governed by clear policies, third-party assessments, and multi-stakeholder consultations. No individual—regardless of their current or former role—can influence these decisions outside of the formal, evidence-based procedures. Like any member, Mr. Carstensen has no privileged status and participates under the same democratic rules that apply to all.

APRIL’s remedy process remains ongoing. Final decisions on progress and potential ending of disassociation rest with FSC’s Board of Directors, based on demonstrable compliance with our standards and after thorough stakeholder consultation. 

We understand that transparency and trust are essential. FSC welcomes dialogue with all stakeholders who have questions or concerns about this matter. We remain fully committed to ensuring that all companies in the remedy process meet FSC’s requirements in full before any change in status can occur. This commitment is central to our credibility and to the trust placed in us by stakeholders around the world.

For more information on FSC’s Remedy Framework, please visit: https://connect.fsc.org/current-processes/fsc-remedy-framework