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Think-Cell
Retail
Collaborate with us - Retail

As a professional retailer, you have thousands of FSC certified wood species and products to choose from globally to meet your consumers' expectations. Contact us for a license, we are ready to help.

Wood FSC
Collaborate with us - Construction

As a construction professional, you have thousands of FSC-certified wood products and species to choose from globally to meet your construction or design needs. Contact us to get certified, we are ready to help.

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PSC Resource Centre

The Policy and Standards Committee plays a crucial role in the standard setting process.

The PSC is a six-person group of advisors to the FSC Board of Directors on a wide range of issues including the approval of new and revised FSC policies, and national forest stewardship standards.

Log in here

Tool wizard
Members' Portal

Membership doesn’t just give you a seat at the decision-making table. It allows you to become part of a vibrant international group of individuals and organizations. Start your application via the members’ portal today.

Members have exclusive access to dedicated resources personalized to their needs in the FSC members’ portal. 

Visit the portal here.

FSC Forests
Climate change

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) regards climate change as a very serious threat to global humanity. Climate change undermines the natural ecosystems on which we rely for our basic needs – food, health, and shelter – and many of the products that support our livelihoods and economies.

25 years FSC
25 years of FSC

More than 25 years ago, the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio failed to produce an agreement to stop deforestation. In response, a committed a group of businesses, environmentalists and community leaders banded together to create a revolutionary concept: a voluntary, market-based approach that would improve forestry practices worldwide. That meeting marked the birth of the Forest Stewardship Council. 25 years ago we pioneered certification for sustainable forestry, and we remain the most trusted sustainable forest management solution thanks to our committed and diverse stakeholders. 

green plan
Annual Reports

Since it was founded in 1993, FSC has grown to become the world’s most respected and widespread forest certification system. Maintaining and consolidating this leading position means working to update, promote and grow the FSC system. FSC also demands constant awareness of cutting edge issues in a context of rapid economic and environmental change, and the capacity to extend existing partnerships and alliances and build new ones.

Retail
Retail

Due to their direct line of communication with consumers, retailers can influence the decisions made by consumers, and in this way, drive sustainability trends forward. A Globescan survey found that 50% of the surveyed consumers worldwide recognise the FSC label and they trust that FSC is effective in protecting forests. As consumers are increasingly looking for information on the sustainability of the products they buy, the role of retailers in conveying such messages is becoming even more relevant. The FSC label is therefore a powerful tool that can help retailers to communicate their commitment to sustainable forest management.

FSC Intact Forest Landscapes
Intact Forest Landscapes

Intact forest landscapes (IFLs) are the last remaining large unfragmented forest areas, undisturbed by roads or other industrial infrastructure, in which there has been no industrial harvesting in the past 30-70 years. Most IFLs consist of dense and open forest (81 per cent) with the remainder being swamps, rocky terrain, grasslands, rivers, lakes, etc. IFLs occur in 60 countries, and 65 per cent of the world’s total IFL area is concentrated in Canada, Russia and Brazil.

FSC Forests
Certified Forests

FSC-certified forests are distributed all over the world. FSC has been collecting maps of certified operations, while understanding the different conditions experienced by different forest managers and respecting the confidentiality of some of this data.

FSC For members
Governance & Strategy

The FSC Global Strategic Plan 2015-2020 clarifies FSC’s identity and role in the global forest system to ensure that our trajectory fits the challenges that the world’s forests and forest stakeholders face. In the 25 years since our founding, we have created a certification system that mobilises the force of the market, offering people a way to create positive impact in forests and communities through their purchasing decisions.

 

mist over the tropical rain forest
Forest Management Certification

FSC National Standards revision processes were initiated in 2015 in the Congo Basin, in the Republic of CONGO, Cameroon and Gabon.

The revised national forest management standards of Cameroon and Gabon apply to all types and scales of forests (FMUs, Communal Forests, Community Forests) including forest plantations. These standards do not apply to non-timber forest products. The revision process has mainly consisted in adapting the FSC Principles and Criteria version 5 and including important indicators related to Intact Forest Landscapes, timber monitoring, ILO fundamental conventions, promotion of women, as well as strengthening indicators related to workers' rights, rights of indigenous peoples and local communities, among others.

This process began with the establishment of Standards Development Groups (SDG) in each of the countries involved. The approval and publication of the revised standards of the different countries takes place according to the following publication schedule:

CAMEROON

Cameroon's revised national standard was approved and published by FSC on September 28, 2020. It came into force on December 29, 2020.

REPUBLIC OF CONGO

As for the Republic of Congo, its standard was approved and published on October 6, 2020 and came into force on January 6, 2021.

GABONESE REPUBLIC

Launched within the framework of the policy of generalizing the certification of responsible forest management, the national standard FSC Gabon was approved and published on December 15, 2020 and its entry into force is scheduled for March 15, 2021.

It is important to note that these new national standards have also been simplified and better adapted to the specific context of each country to facilitate not only their use by forest concession managers but also understanding by auditors. These standards have also been aligned with the legality requirements of the VPA-FLEGT agreements for the countries where these agreements have been signed (Cameroon and the Republic of Congo).

FSC welcomes the completion of its draft standards and encourages forest concessions to comply with them for the valuation of their forest products on the national and international markets.

FSC would particularly like to thank its various partners involved in promoting responsible forest management in the Congo Basin and more specifically the members and experts of the FSC Standards Development Groups in the countries concerned for their availability during the long period of revision of national FSC standards.

If you have any questions about the new standards, please contact:

For Cameroon: Professor Roger Ngoufo, Chair of the FSC standard development group: ngoufocew08@yahoo.fr

For the Republic of Congo: Inès Gady Strarov Cabare Mvoukani, Chair of the FSC standard development group: inesgady@yahoo.fr

For Gabon: Mr. Emmanuel Bayani, Chairman of the FSC standard development group: e.bayani1968@gmail.com / scoutgabon@yahoo.fr                           

 

FSC Wood Reference Sample Collection
Sample testing

An innovative approach to wood sample testing. FSC is part of a leading partner in an innovative project, reinventing how wood sample collection and forensic sciences can help us protect our forests worldwide. Traditional wood identification technologies have long made it possible for scientists to determine the genus, and/or family of a timber of a small piece of wood using forensic techniques. In short, the tests can tell both FSC and authorities whether a product is made from the genus, family and sometimes species of timber which it is claimed to be.

FSC Vancouver Declaration
The Vancouver Declaration

Businesses that use the world’s resources have a duty to ensure they’re responsibly sourced and cared for. Because of this, and as part of our dedication to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, FSC is proud to introduce the Vancouver Declaration.

FSC EU Timber Regulation
EU Timber Regulation & FLEGT

How FSC certification can help companies meet Forest Law Enforcement, Governance, and Trade (FLEGT) and EUTR timber legality requirements.

FSC label 100% FFAF wooden bowl
Use our logo

Seen on thousands of product labels around the world, the FSC trademarks – most recognisably the famous FSC logo – are trusted by ethical consumers worldwide.

Follow us
Follow Us

FSC works to take care of our forests and those who rely on them: by protecting plant and animal species, Indigenous Peoples rights, forest workers’ safety, and much more. Follow us to get inspired, learn about forests and find out how you can help take care of forests for future generations.

Tropical Forest Africa
History of FSC

Concerned about accelerating deforestation, environmental degradation and social exclusion, a group of timber users, traders and representatives of environmental and human rights organisations met in California in 1990.

Tropical Forest Congo Basin
Media Kit

We have a selection of media resources and materials related to FSC and our work available for journalists to use.

Please find more information on the website of FSC International.

Promotion FSC
Choissisez des produits FSC

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Eastern Africa
Eastern Africa

FSC in Eastern Africa sub region’s existing and future growth is focused to the following countries:

  • Ethiopia
  • Rwanda
  • Sudan
  • South Sudan
  • Uganda
  • Kenya
  • Tanzania
  • Seychelles
  • Burundi
  • Somalia
  • Eritrea
  • Djibouti
SA Foresty
Southern Africa

The FSC Southern Africa region consists of the following countries:

  • Angola
  • Comoros
  • Botswana
  • eSwatini
  • Lesotho
  • Madgascar
  • Malawi
  • Mauritius
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • South Africa
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe
mist over the tropical rain forest
FSC Certification

FSC certification ensures that products come from well managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits. Forest owners and managers may want to become FSC certified to demonstrate that they are managing their forests responsibly. Along the supply chain, FSC certification can provide benefits such as access to new markets.

Voting FSC Members
Governance FSC

FSC is an international membership association, governed by its members. 

These members may be organizational – which means that they represent their institution or organization – or individual. Members are from diverse backgrounds and include representatives of environmental and social non-governmental organizations, the timber trade, forestry organizations, indigenous people's organizations, community forestry groups, retailers and manufacturers, and forest certification organizations, as well as individual forest owners and interested parties. 

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Governance
textiles
Textiles

Forest-based textiles, such as rayon, viscose, modal or lyocell are increasingly being used in the fashion industry. If cellulose fibres come from well-managed forests they can be more environmentally friendly than synthetic fibres, such as nylon or polyester, or even natural fibres, such as cotton.

Tool wizard
Consultation Platform

A large portion of FSC’s work includes consultations with its members and stakeholders. These consultations are on a large variety of topics, including trademark revisions, standards, policies and many more.

The consultation platform allows you to review documents and provide feedback at the same time. 

Open the platform here

Forest picture packaging
Support us

During this unprecedented and difficult time, many foresters are continuing to work in FSC certified forests. In many rural areas, these jobs provide vital stimulus to local economies and communities, and are considered “essential services.” Please make a donation to support community foresters and all the people working hard to manage forests during the COVID-19 crisis. Donations collected will be bundled and directed to communities working in forests around the world. FSC is working with organizations representing foresters and your support will ensure that forests continue to be managed in responsible ways during a time of global crisis. > Donate now

Agriculture
Current Processes

Policies, Standards and Procedures are being developed or revised. Our development, review and revision process is comprehensive, transparent, inclusive and robust, aiming to promote stability and predictability with the FSC system.

Lake
Remedy & Reform

After an organization has been excluded from the FSC scheme and they demonstrate real commitment to change, we bring them together with those who’ve been affected by destructive activities. Through extensive collaboration and consultation, we work out how to remedy the harm caused and make sure it doesn’t happen again.

FSC Certified Forest
Unacceptable Activities

If anyone connected to FSC is involved in destructive forestry activities, inside or outside certified areas, we take action.

FSC Forests Brazil
About us

As the original pioneers of forest certification, we have 25 years of experience in sustainable forest management. We use our expertise to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests, bringing together experts from the environmental, economic and social spheres.

FSC Forest
For Forests

Forests are incredibly valuable, not only for the survival of people but for the rest of the planet. By looking after forests, we preserve one of our best defences against climate change. Forests are also home to many endemic and endangered species. We find medicinal plants, food and other non-timber forest products in certified forests.

FSC Innovation Earth observation
Earth Observation

Earth observation is continuously improving, and FSC is utilising this technology internally and through strategic partnerships to improve our transparency and our services to stakeholders. Geographic information system (GIS) mapping of certified forest area is just the beginning.

FSC Innovation Blockchain
Blockchain

Integrity is a core value for FSC: a fundamental principle and value of who we are, how we work, and what we stand for. With its enhanced data security and traceability, blockchain technology has enormous, game-changing potential that reaches far beyond the realm of finance. And people around the world are researching, experimenting with, and increasingly deploying the technology to address the big problems of our time, from the refugee crisis to climate change. FSC is exploring how to best utilise this technology to improve supply chain integrity in the FSC system.

FSC Wood Identification
Wood Identification Techniques

Wood identification technologies make it possible to trace the timber species and harvest location. Traditional wood anatomy enables scientist to determine genus and family, and even species, depending on the circumstances.

FSC Smallholder Communities
New Approaches project

In 2016, FSC established the New Approaches project to develop alternative and additional ways to support smallholders and communities striving to achieve certification.

FSC Bonn Initiative
Bonn Initiative

The Bonn Initiative was launched by FSC during the COP23 climate change event. This initiative builds on the Vancouver Declaration, with signatory companies, such as IKEA and SIG, supporting the development of scientifically-rigorous methodologies to quantify the climate benefits of FSC certification.

FSC Smallholder and Communities
Solutions for Smallholders

Small forest owners and communities are at the heart of FSC. We have launched a number of different initiatives over the last 25 years, and we have achieved a lot. The wealth of knowledge and resources we have built up was harnessed to inform our latest project, launched to look into new and innovative solutions. It is called the New Approaches for Smallholders and Communities Certification project.

FSC Compliance
FSC Timber Legality Compliance

Specific steps taken by FSC to ensure compliance with timber legality laws.

FSC Trademark
Protecting Trademarks

FSC owns a portfolio of trademarks worldwide. These trademarks form part of the foundation on which the FSC system is built. We're vigilant in protecting our valuable trademarks and take swift measures to deal with identified cases of violations. We enjoy a synergetic relationship with our stakeholders who are instrumental and integral in helping unearth and resolve cases of infringement.

FSC International Gabon Together We Are FSC
FSC and Timber Legality

Principle 1 of the FSC Principles and Criteria requires forest managers to comply with all applicable laws and regulations in the country of harvest, and with international treaties.

Tropicial Forest African region
Types of Certification

FSC issues three different types of certificates: Forest Management, Chain of Custody and Controlled Wood. The different types of certificates relate to different stages of production and subsequent progress of forest products through the value chain. Verification against all FSC requirements ensures that materials and products with the FSC label are from responsibly managed forests.

African Forest
About FSC
PSC files glass
Policy and Standards Committee

The FSC Board of Directors (BoD) established the Policy and Standards Committee (PSC) in order to streamline, facilitate and accelerate decision-making processes in relation to normative FSC documents.

FSC Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem Services

Ecosystem services are the benefits that people obtain from nature. Forests provide society with a wide range of benefits, from reliable flows of clean water to productive soil and carbon sequestration. In FSC certified forests, valuable ecosystem services are protected – and in 2018, FSC introduced a procedure to demonstrate and communicate about the positive impact of responsible forest management on ecosystem services. These verified positive impacts aim to facilitate payments for ecosystem services and provide access to other benefits, thereby adding business value for those who responsibly manage forests and those who take action to preserve forest ecosystem services.

Furniture page banner
Furniture

FSC certification can raise a furniture company’s credibility across the supply chain. As consumers are increasingly looking for information on the sustainability of the products they buy, the role of furniture companies in responsible sourcing is becoming even more relevant. The FSC label is therefore a powerful tool that can help furniture companies to communicate their commitment to sustainable forest management. 

FSC certified packaging
Collaborate with us - Packaging

As a packaging professional, you have thousands of FSC-certified wood products and species to choose from globally to meet your clients expectations. Contact us to get certified, we are ready to help.

Amaz
Project certification

With more than 75,000 organizations holding FSC chain of custody certification, FSC is the leading sustainable forest management solution, providing the highest global assurance of supply chain integrity from forest to end user. FSC is not restricted to products on a store shelf, however. Your business has the opportunity to use the FSC trademarks to promote your projects! By complying with the FSC Standard for Project Certification, the projects you manage can be FSC-certified, allowing you to manage several projects in a continual basis or a one-time project certification, whichever is more convenient for you.

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Trademark Portal

FSC owns a portfolio of trademarks worldwide. These trademarks form part of the foundation on which the FSC system is built. We're vigilant in protecting our valuable trademarks and take swift measures to deal with identified cases of violations. We enjoy a synergetic relationship with our stakeholders who are instrumental and integral in helping unearth and resolve cases of infringement. Find out more.

Members
Board of Directors

FSC Board of Directors is accountable to the FSC members. It is made up of twelve elected representatives, with four elected from each of the chambers for a four-year term.
 

FSC Forests
Position Statements

FSC’s position papers are short essays that present our position and/or approach on a given topic relevant to the FSC system. We strive to adhere to an evidence-based approach in our framing of the issue and subsequent approach and/or recommendation(s). Please find a list of papers below.

FSC General Assembly
General Assembly

FSC’s principle decision-making platform, the triennial General Assembly, has been postponed to 2021.

Contribute Standards
Contribute to the Standards

The cycle of creating and revising FSC normative documents begins with identifying the need for a new normative document or the revision of an existing one. This need can be communicated to us by contacting FSC International directly or by looking out for a review consultation on our Consultation Platform.

FSC certified forests
Complaints

FSC is the world’s most trusted sustainable forest management solution. We take our integrity seriously. Since no system is perfect, we take action when a problem is detected or reported.

 

FSC Certification Resources
CB Trademark Resources

This is an area with relevant trademark resources for certification bodies. If you are a certification body, please log in. If you have forgotten your log in details, please contact us.

Wood Manufacture
For Businesses

Corporate social responsibility and sustainability are more than just buzzwords. Consumers and societies expect businesses to be part of the solution when it comes to environmental and social issues. For any business associated with productive forests and forest products, working with FSC makes sense. We can help your business with improved efficiency, market access, meeting the UN Sustainable Development Goals, and more. We have tailored solutions for different sectors, from furniture to pulp and paper. And we provide additional tools for businesses that choose to work with us, such as marketing materials to promote your collaboration with FSC.

worker
Workers

FSC has a strong focus on securing workers’ rights by incorporating core labour requirements into its system. These requirements include effective abolition of child labour, elimination of all forms of forced or compulsory labour, the elimination of discrimination in respect of employment and occupation, respect of freedom of association and the effective recognition of the right to collective bargaining.

sami people
Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous Peoples make up some five per cent of the world’s population – that’s one in twenty of us. Belonging to around 5,000 different groups or communities, Indigenous Peoples usually have (or had) their own language, cultures and traditions, influenced by their ancestral homelands.

FSC Sustainable Intensification
Sustainable Intensification

To provide forest materials to a growing world population, production must be increased. At the same time, we are faced with a global need to stop deforestation and forest degradation, and the need to protect high conservation values, including intact forest landscapes. To stop biodiversity loss and retain forest ecosystem services, much more forest area should be protected.

FSC Forests
Locations

The Forest Stewardship Council International (FSC International) consists of the entities FSC Asociación Civil (FSC AC), FSC International Center GmbH (FSC IC) and FSC Global Development GmbH (FSC GD). FSC GD and FSC IC are subsidiaries of FSC AC. FSC has a number of regional offices, sub-regional offices and independent national offices around the globe. There are a number of local FSC offices across the world. If you would like to find out more about a specific local office,  please visit the relevant website using the list below. 

Workers
Investigations

There are some forestry practices we believe are so destructive that they cannot be tolerated, even if the wrongdoing happens in forests that aren’t FSC certified. We conduct extensive investigations when we receive credible allegations that an organization associated with FSC is involved in destructive activities. Organizations found responsible for these activities face exclusion from the FSC scheme.
 

FSC Innovation
Innovation

Part of FSC's vision is a shift in global forest trends – from social and environmental degradation to sustainable use, conservation, restoration and respect for forests and those that depend on them. FSC pioneered forest certification decades ago, and we continue to innovate, whether that means certification in new sectors or using more efficient, digital tools.

FSC Transaction Verification
Transaction Verification

It is essential to limit inaccurate claims in FSC-certified supply chains. This is especially true for high-risk supply chains. Transaction verification is the verification process required by the FSC chain of custody standard to ensure that FSC output claims made by certificate holders are accurate and match the FSC input claims of their trading partners.

FSC Vancouver Declaration Ikea
IKEA the Vancouver Declaration

"Anyone can be a leader for change."

FSC For Governments public procurement
Public Procurement

Governments help shape the world, not only through policy decisions but also in their day-to-day practices. Find out how procurement in the public sector can promote sustainable forest management.

Impact of FSC in Forests
Why FSC?

FSC works to improve forest management worldwide, and through certification creates an incentive for forest owners and managers to follow best social and environmental practices. The growing demand for FSC certified products tells forest owners that businesses and consumers prefer products from well managed forests.

FSC Africa
Principles and Criteria

The FSC Principles & Criteria (P&C) describe the essential elements or rules of environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable forest management. There are ten principles setting out this vision; each principle is supported by several criteria that provide a way of judging whether the principle has been met in practice.

FSC International Arturo Escobar
Become Certified

Becoming FSC certified shows that you comply with the highest social and environmental standards on the market. Public concern about the state of the world’s forests and timber resources is increasing, and FSC provides you with a credible solution to complex environmental and social issues

Plantation
Our team
  • Harrison Kojwang 
    Regional Director - h.kojwang@fsc.org
  • Israel Bionyi Nyoh
    Africa Communications Manager - i.bionyi@fsc.org
  • Paul Opanga
    Labour Issues Manager - p.opanga@fsc.org 
  • William Lawyer
    Policy and Standards Manager - w.lawyer@fsc.org
forest and light
FSC Campaigns

Create your own campaigns to tell your sustainability story.

listen to podcast
Multimedia

You can now listen to a variety of forestry-related topics on the go with our podcast series. Our podcasts feature a range of interviews with experts from different sectors, covering topics from value chains to digitalisation.

FSC Vancouver Declaration
Supporters

Supporters pledge to go beyond current commitments and increase the share of materials and products sourced from responsibly-managed forests. As support grows, this declaration will have a positive impact on three core areas of sustainability: environmental, social and economic.

Artwork risk mitigation
All module tester

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FSC certified packaging
Packaging

Demand for packaging to be renewable and responsibly sourced has never been greater. As consumers are increasingly looking for information on the sustainability of the products they buy, the role of retailers and packaging producers is becoming more relevant. In a global consumer survey conducted by Globescan, 82% of the respondents who recalled purchasing FSC labelled products said they are influenced by the label when buying. The FSC label is therefore a powerful tool that can help retailers and brand owners to communicate their commitment to sustainable forest management. 

marketing
Furniture

If you have an active FSC certificate, you can add the ‘Forests For All Forever’ logo and assets to all your communications with consumers, clients and suppliers to tell your sustainability story by showcasing your efforts to fight against climate change.

marketing
Retail Marketing

You can add the ‘Forests For All Forever’ logo and assets to all your communications with consumers, clients, investors and suppliers to tell your sustainability story showcasing your efforts to fight against climate change.

Wood FSC
Construction

Responsible sourcing of wood can benefit construction projects in many ways. Wood is more carbon and energy efficient in comparison to other building materials. However, wood can originate from unsustainable forest management practices which can undermine its benefits. This risk can be mitigated by sourcing FSC certified wood. FSC is the world’s most trusted sustainable forest management solution that adds environmental, social and economic benefits to construction projects. It also helps in meeting different environmental regulations like EUTR, the US Lacey Act etc.

 

FSC SDGs woman
Sustainable Development Goals

The work of FSC is helping achieve 40 targets under 14 sustainable development goals (SDGs). FSC helps achieve sustainable forest management in the world, one of the targets of SDG 15 (Life on Land). The broad environmental, social, and economic focus of the FSC forest stewardship principles also contribute to the SDGs focused on poverty, equality, natural resources, production and consumption patterns, decent work, climate change, inclusive and accountable societies, and global partnerships.

board carpentry
Legal Notice

This website is owned by: 
FSC Global Development GmbH

Legally represented by: 
Managing Director, Mr. Kim Bering Becker Carstensen

Registered Office: 
Adenauerallee 134
53115 Bonn
Deutschland / Germany
Phone: +49 (0)228 367 66-0
Fax: +49 (0)228 367 66-30
E-mail: info@fsc.org
Handelsregister / Commercial register: Bonn HRB15990 
USt.-Id Nr. / VAT No: DE 258067376

Jobs
Work for us

A career at FSC means joining a great team, working together for a great cause. Our diverse staff bring their various expertise to find solutions to promote sustainable forest management. 

FSC Solid Timber
Solid Timber

Wood is a wonderful material: beautiful to look at, easy to work with, renewable, recyclable, carbon-efficient, low-energy and high-performance. FSC-certified timber is a strong pillar for more sustainable timber industries, such as construction and furniture. Not only does FSC certification ensure the use of environmentally-appropriate forest management practices in the production of wood, but it is also increasingly useful for companies participating in the green building industry, as well as helping ensure compliance with changing timber regulations and meeting increasing consumer demand for eco-friendly options.

Workers for CoC Certification
Chain of Custody Certification

FSC chain of custody certification provides credible confirmation for products with environmentally and socially responsible sources to access the market.

FSC Data Standard
Data Standard Report

FSC works with the International Social and Environmental Accreditation and Labelling Alliance (ISEAL) and other ISEAL members to develop an information and data standard for sustainability. This work is supported by the ISEAL Innovation Fund.

FSC Supply Chain
Supply Chains

From forest to store, we are committed to creating credible supply chains. As a result, transparency and simplification are key priorities for FSC.

FSC Accreditation
Accreditation

FSC does not issue certificates itself. Independent certification bodies carry out the forest management and chain of custody assessments that lead to FSC certification. FSC sets the standards for forest management and chain of custody certification, and defines the procedures that certification bodies should follow in their certification assessments.

Plants
Ecosystem Services for Businesses

FSC provides businesses with new tools to demonstrate and communicate the positive impact that their purchases, investments and financial support have on the conservation and restoration of forest ecosystem services.

FSC Timber Legislation
Timber Legislation

FSC regards compliance with relevant legislation regulating timber trade and related matters as an essential component of responsible forest management.

FSC High Conservation Values
High Conservation Values

From endemic species to sacred sites, all natural habitats – especially forests – inherit conservation values. Those biological, ecological, social or cultural values of outstanding significance are known as 'high conservation values,' or HCVs.

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Tree African FSC Forest
Standards

The development of the FSC standards is managed internationally by FSC International.  The development process is participatory FSC standards. It is transparent, democratic, non-discriminatory and provides an opportunity for stakeholders to engage.

African Forest
Our vision and mission

Our objective is to promote responsible management of the word's forests that is to say a management that is environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable.

Monkey
Ecosystem Services for Forest Managers

By following the seven steps of the Ecosystem Services Procedure, forest managers demonstrate how their management practices conserve or restore valuable forest ecosystem services. Once these positive impacts are verified by an FSC accredited certification body, the resulting ecosystem services claims can be used to tell impact stories about the forest and attract financial and non-monetary benefits. 

watch video
Videos

Find out more about the benefits of FSC-certification and the difference certification makes on the ground through our video series. Share these videos on your channels and help to promote sustainable forestry and forests for all, forever

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Newsfeed
hand
Wood ID form

Sample testing of FSC-certified products allows buyers, sellers, and traders to ensure that the products they receive from their suppliers are really what they are claimed to be. If you’d like to submit a product for testing, please fill in the form below, and we will get back to you with a quote and shipping documents. Generally, traditional wood anatomy testing costs USD$100 per component tested and isotope testing costs between USD$600-800 per component tested. Bulk discounts for traditional wood anatomy testing can apply.

Forest image from below
Collaborate

As a professional, you have thousands of FSC-certified wood products and species to choose from globally to meet the expectations of your clients and end-consumers. Contact us to get certified, we are ready to help.

Retail
Retail VP

Consumer demand is growing for products that are environmentally sustainable and socially beneficial. So choose the materials you can trust to deliver better results for forests, people and businesses. Choose wood, paper and packaging with the FSC label. 

Furniture page banner
Collaborate with us - Furniture

As a furniture professional, you have thousands of FSC-certified wood products and species to choose from globally to meet your clients expectations, and the ones of end-consumers. Contact us to get certified, we are ready to help.

marketing
Packaging Marketing

If your organization holds a valid FSC certificate, you can add the ‘Forests For All Forever’ logo and assets to all your communications with consumers, clients, investors and suppliers to tell your sustainability story showcasing your efforts to fight against climate change. 

marketing
Construction Marketing

You can add the ‘Forests For All Forever’ logo and assets to all your communications with consumers, clients, investors and suppliers to tell your sustainability story showcasing your efforts to fight against climate change. 

This 1.2 hectares of rubber plantation is owned by Somjit Yunu, who says that certification has taught her better land and soil practices.
Welcome

We are pleased to welcome you, whether you are a new Certificate Holder or renewing your commitment to responsible forest management. We work to improve forest management worldwide, and we value your commitment to our mission. We're pleased that you've chosen to join our efforts to ensure the world’s forests meet the social, ecological, and economic rights and needs of the present generation without compromising those of future generations. The FSC team is here to help you better understand the system and help you take full advantage of your certification. We look forward to working with you!

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E-training

FSC’s e-training platform gives you access to a variety of online courses related to FSC’s work. Find out more.

Tool wizard
Marketing Toolkit

Discover how brands from all over the world communicate their sustainability stories using the FSC branding framework and use our assets to create your campaign. Visit the toolkit.

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Certification Search

We have updated the look and feel of the public search. This is the one stop location for inquiries about certificates and their status. Updates to data can take up to 24 hours. Start the search!

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Engagement

Effective engagement with a variety of stakeholders is a crucial part of our strategy as an organization, and a determining factor in the success of our projects. From solutions forums to direct engagement with governments and other important partners, we take an active role in many dialogue platforms.

Members
Become a member

Are you ready to help change how forests are managed around the world? Through our governance model, FSC members have real influence.

Visit the Members' Portal here.

FSC Natural Rubber
Natural Rubber

Rubber is used in many items of our daily lives, including shoes, tyres, footballs, condoms and even medical products, such as catheters and gloves. When it is not managed responsibly, it can have grave negative impacts on the environment, communities and workers' livelihoods.

FSC Certificiation Resource
Certification Resources

FSC has an array of resources to help you navigate the certification process. The links below provide an overview, and more comprehensive materials can be downloaded from the document centre. Please consider subscribing to our newsletter for the latest updates from across the FSC system.

FSC Innovation
Textiles & NTFPs

Forests have always produced more than the quintessential forest products such as furniture, construction materials, pulp and paper. However, technological advancements are expanding the potential for surprising and innovative forest products to replace less sustainable alternatives. FSC certification adds an additional guarantee that the forests where these products are sourced are managed responsibly.

FSC Fibre
Fibre

The fibre value chain encompasses the packaging, paper and hygiene sectors, all of which source pulp for the production of a variety of products – from tissues to paperboard and printing paper. According to recent FSC/GlobeScan global consumer research, people expect companies to do more to protect the environment, and increasingly check information about a product before they buy it. Sustainable forest management practices allow the packaging and paper sectors to highlight their commitment to responsible sourcing and to enhance their brand reputation.

FSC Forests
Facts & Figures

Our facts and figures map provides a new way to see the growth in global forest area certified to FSC Principles and Criteria, as well as the global supply chain certification growth.

FSC General Assembly
Members

FSC international members come from all across the globe and represent the global South and global North, with interests spread across three chambers: social, environmental and economic.

FSC Labels
FSC Labels

FSC labels can be found on millions of products around the world – from toilet rolls to your favourite book, to that milk carton in your fridge, and other food products. What does the label mean? Simply put: by choosing products with FSC labels, you are helping to take care of the world’s forests.

Each label provides information about the origin of the materials used to make the finished and labeled product.

FSC Certification Body Accreditation
Certification Body Accreditation

FSC does not issue certificates itself. Independent certification bodies carry out the forest management and chain of custody assessments that lead to FSC certification. The certification bodies are held to account by Assurance Services International.

FSC For Banner
For People

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), more than 25 per cent of the world’s population rely on forests for their survival. Ensuring that the rights of forest-dependent communities are prioritised is really important to us. FSC-certified organizations around the world must meet certain requirements to prove they adhere to relevant principles.

FSC Digital Audits
Digital Audit Report

We are introducing digital audit reporting to the FSC system in 2020/2021. This will enable us to appropriately access audit data and easily identify trends, impacts and risk areas to evaluate and improve the FSC system. 

FSC Impact Demonstrating Impact
Demonstrating Impacts

We are dedicated to compiling evidence to demonstrate outcomes and impacts of FSC certification. Currently, the two main sources of evidence are internally generated data and independent scientific studies.

FSC Roadmap to Change
Roadmap to Change

How does FSC intend to generate social, environmental and economic benefits on the ground? In this section, we explain the mechanisms linking our standards with our mission to promote responsible forestry.

FSC Vancouver Declaration WWF
WWF Vancouver Declaration

"It will help give brands and businesses a way to communicate."

wood close-up
Cases

Go deeper into our investigations and our work with organizations currently excluded from the FSC scheme, and those who have been re-admitted after taking remedial action.

FSC Impact
Impact

We are committed to data-driven monitoring. FSC is continuously updating traditional methods of data collection and analytics, in order to help us expand data sources and conduct more comprehensive and innovative data projects. These projects will be carried out by the Data Analytics, Evaluation and Learning Programme.

Butterfly
Pesticides Policy

FSC strives to identify the best feasible approach to reduce the use of chemical pesticides in FSC-certified forests and plantations, and to prevent, minimise and mitigate the related environmental and social impacts.

FSC
Dispute Resolution Umbrella

If anyone connected to FSC is involved in destructive forestry activities, inside or outside certified areas, we take action.

Congo Basin Forest
Sub-region Congo Basin

The forests of the Congo Basin are considered the second lung of the planet after the Amazon, known for their biodiversity and low human density. The countries that make up the Congo Basin are:

  • Congo (Republic of Congo)
  • Cameroon
  • Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
  • Central African Republic
  • Gabon

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(339 results)
Cameroon SDG
Cameroon begins a partial national forest stewardship standard review

On June 16–17, 2022, a working group of experts representing the economic, environmental, and social sectors in charge of developing FSC Standards for Cameroon, met in Yaoundé to start a partial review process of the existing national standard.

June 30, 2022
Congo Basin Forest
FSC solutions to strengthen the value and contribution of Congo Basin forests to sustainable economies and the wellbeing of society

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) - Africa will host a side event on July 7 at 14:30–16:00 during the 19th Meeting of Parties (MoP) of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership (CBFP), which will take place at the Radisson Blu Okoumé Palace Hotel in Libreville, Gabon, on July 5- 8 2022.

June 29, 2022
Roof
Visit us at Woodex for Africa Show: 7-9 June

You are invited to join us at WOODEX for Africa 2022: Visit us at stand W715

 

June 3, 2022
SAFCOL
Invitation to Second Public Consultation: FSC Interim National Standard (INS) Ghana

The Technical Working Group (TWG) for the development of the FSC Interim National Standard (INS) has the pleasure to invite you to the Second public consultation on the draft 2 or (V1.3)  of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) INS for forest management in Ghana. This process has started and ends17 July 2022.

May 20, 2022
BBQ
Tanzanian firm secures market in EU for the FSC™ certified charcoal

Tractors Company Ltd   based in -Iringa, Tanzania recently secured a market to export its organic charcoal briquettes to the European Union (EU) countries. This accomplishment was as a result of the firm obtaining the Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™) certificate issued for briquetted charcoal and other wood products, the first of its kind in Eastern Africa.

May 1, 2022
Breede River
Earth Day - 22 April 2022: Invest in our Planet

The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970 and since then has grown into one of the largest environmental movements working with 50,000 partners in over 192 countries to drive positive action for our planet.

April 21, 2022
Mondi Plantations
International Day of Forests 2022: Sustainable Production and Consumption enabled through FSC certification

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests (IDF) in 2012. This year the theme is "Forests and sustainable production and consumption."

March 16, 2022
Looking into the trees
Workers Day: FSC ensures Worker Rights are protected

Workers Day was first commemorated in 1889 when an international federation of socialist groups and trade unions designated May 1 as a day in support of workers, in commemoration of the Haymarket Riot in Chicago (1886),  which was the first recorded full day work stoppage in the  USA.

April 30, 2022
Merensky Forest
South African FSC Certificate Holders hold events to celebrate International Day of Forests

Thank you to everyone who supported our International Day of Forests Campaign. We share what some of our certificate holders did to celebrate our forests. 

May 2, 2022
Detpak
Detpak South Africa celebrates its 10 year anniversary of being FSC certified

Detpak South Africa is proud to have celebrated its 10th year of Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) Chain of Custody Certification in February 2022.  (FSC-C109574)

February 25, 2022
Kenya Visual
A new member joins the FSC™ Eastern Africa Team

Frida joined the Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™)  in March 2022 as the Marketing and Communications Specialist for the Eastern Africa subregion.

May 1, 2022
Mr Price
Leading Fashion Retail Group signs up with FSC®

Mr Price Group has signed a promotional license agreement with FSC® Southern African for use in South Africa, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Zambia, Botswana, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. Mr Price Group is an omni- channel fashion- value retailer, based in South Africa.

December 2, 2021
DRC Map
Relaunch of the National Forest Stewardship Standard development process in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™)  forest management certification confirms that the forest is being managed in a way that preserves biological diversity and benefits the lives of local people and workers, while ensuring it sustains economic viability.

May 1, 2022
FSC restuarant
Congolaise Industrielle des Bois (CIB) has become the first company in Africa to achieve FSC project certification

Congolaise Industrielle des Bois (CIB), a subsidiary of Olam Agri, has become the first company in Africa to complete a Forest Stewardship Council™(FSC™) certified project with the construction of a restaurant for employees of the Wildlife Conservation Society Congo (WCS) and Fondation Nouabale Ndoki (FNN).

April 5, 2022
Forest
Public Consultation: FSC Remedy Framework

FSC International invites you to share your feedback on the  FSC Remedy Framework which is open for consultation via the public consultation platform, until 10 May 2022, along with specific aspects of the FSC Policy to Address Conversion and FSC Policy for Association.

April 25, 2022
Gabon
Another 180 000 hectares certified in Gabon

Gabon Advanced Wood Sarl (GAW) is a company in Gabon which holds a timber concession. It recently obtained a new Forest Stewardship Council ™ (FSC™) forest management certificate  CU-FM/COC-882475 for its Ogooué concession in the south of Gabon, located in the Haut Ogooué and Ogooué Lolo provinces.

March 25, 2022
Recycle
Think before you throw this Global Recycling Day

Around 1.1 million tonnes of paper and paper packaging are recovered for recycling in South Africa every year. This accounts for just under 70% of paper products available for recovery in the country.

March 18, 2022
Ukraine pose
No FSC material from Russia and Belarus until the invasion ends

Because of the association of the forest sector in Russia and Belarus with armed conflict, no FSC-certified material or controlled wood from these countries will be permitted to be traded.

March 8, 2022
Another
All FSC certificate holders and promotional licence holders are invited to participate in the recently launched Global Client Survey.

The Global Client Survey is an opportunity for FSC certificate holders and promotional licence holders to provide feedback on FSC. It is important for us to understand your needs, concerns and priorities. Moreover, the survey results will help fine-tune our service delivery and the value that FSC provides.

February 25, 2022
Shopping
2021 Global Consumer Research Reveals Escalating Concerns about Climate Change and Threats to Forest Biodiversity

Among consumers, environmental concerns are becoming more important than ever and sustainability now rivals conventional factors such as price and brand as influencers of consumer shopping choices.

January 31, 2022
Forestry SA Image
Revision of the National Risk Assessment (NRA) and National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) for South Africa

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has scheduled the targeted revision of the National Risk Assessment (NRA) and National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) for South Africa for 2022/23. As per the FSC processes (FSC-PRO-60-006 and FSC-PRO-60-002), we will establish a chamber balanced working group to support both processes. These processes will be chaired and coordinated by FSC Southern Africa.

January 31, 2022
Indigenous People
You are not Alone

The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) mission is to promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world’s forests.

December 9, 2021
FSC Friday
FSC™ Friday 2021’s - “Save our Forests. Save our Climate” - a great success

FSC Friday 2021 was a great success, with the  theme  “Save our Forests. Save our Climate” really striking a chord with participants at events and social media as well as online audiences around the world.

December 2, 2021
Namibia Landscape
Responsible Charcoal Production is Possible in Communal Areas of Namibia

The Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) has helped bring about a  paradigm shift from previous practices to profitable and environmentally responsible production of charcoal by Namibian communities. 

October 7, 2021
Mbizi Elephants
There are elephants in the forest

Quietly winding its way through the woodlands in eastern Zambia, the Luangwa river passes through the Mbizi Farm, where it is welcomed and celebrated as the aorta of this region, delivering much needed water to villages, farmers and other communities.  Where it reaches the FSC™ certified Mbizi Safari Ranch, it takes a breather from the many demands it endures along its long and arduous journey.

September 30, 2021
max-hurdebourcq
Interview: Documentary Filmmakers Explain How Wildlife Thrives in these Gabonese FSC-Certified Concessions

Upcoming documentary shows how well-managed logging concessions are areas where animals and ecosystems thrive and support highly sensitive species such as gorillas survive.

September 27, 2021
Congo River
FSC procedure for ecosystem services in the Congo Basin: The case for biodiversity

One of the major issues of discussion in the last  few years in the forestry sector is ecosystem services. How can they be implemented in the field? What is their potential to assure funding for the sustainable forestry activities in the Congo Basin?

December 2, 2021
Kenya Standards
The Interim National Standard (INS) of Kenya launched in October 2021

‘We have not inherited the forests from our ancestors, we have borrowed these resources from our future generation’, Hon. Keriako Tobiko, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

The Ministry of Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary, Honorable Keriako Tobiko, on Friday 8th October 2021, officially launched the Interim National Standard of Kenya at Karura Forest Grounds, Nairobi, Kenya.

December 2, 2021
Giraffe
You can't see Life for the Trees

Did you know?

More than 30% of the commercial forestry landscape in South Africa is protected for ecological conservation benefits.

November 30, 2021
Tazania people picture
Tanzania to fast-track forest certification

Tanzania is set  to fast-track forest certification to take care of forests and ensure a sustainable supply of forest products and services. 

December 1, 2021
HCV Regional Working Group
An update on Congo Basin High Conservation Value Guidelines

The Guidelines for the identification, management and monitoring of High Conservation Values (HCV) in the Congo Basin forests are being finalized by the Congo Basin HCV Regional Working Group (HCV-RWG).

December 2, 2021
Namibia Grassland Restoration
“Save our Forests. Save our Climate” FSC Friday 2021: 24 September

What solutions will COP26 bring to the climate change debate? The world waits with bated breath as the international score card will be completed on signatories’ progress in achieving their climate change goals.

 

 

September 10, 2021
Shinrin-Yoku Main
SHINRIN-YOKU: Go forest bathing and reset your mind and health

"The good news is that even a small amount of time in nature can have an impact on our health. A two-hour forest bathe will help you to unplug from technology and slow down. It will bring you into the present moment to de-stress and relax you. When you connect to nature through all five of your senses, you begin to draw on the vast array of benefits the natural world provides.”

(From Dr Qing Li’s book ‘Shinrin-yoku, The Art and Science of Forest-Bathing’.)

September 27, 2021
African woman worker
New FSC Core Labour Requirements Further Protect Workers.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has released new core labour requirements in its chain of custody certification standard to provide added protection for the rights of workers in all FSC certified operations.

September 16, 2021
HCV visual
High Conservation Value Assessor Course

Three-day intensive course on High Conservation Values (HCV) from September 28th to 30th in Sabie, South Africa.

 

 

 


 

August 25, 2021
Uganda Forest
Promoting responsible forest management in Uganda

A story of cover loss with great potential for viable recovery.

July 8, 2021
Forest Elephants in the Congo Basin
FSC and Ark2030 engage in a rainforest protection program in Gabon – Central Africa

Libreville, July 29th - FSC, through its network partner FSC Netherlands and its regional office FSC Africa, is engaging in a partnership agreement with Ark2030 to promote the protection and restoration of forest ecosystems in the central African country of Gabon.

August 5, 2021
Parfait Mimbimi Esono
Tribute to a founding member of FSC in Africa

On May 16, Parfait Mimbimi Esono passed away at his home in Ekou-Mdoum by Ambam (Meyo center) in the Republic of Cameroon.

July 7, 2021
Contreplaque
Action on Potential Fraud in Plywood Supply Chains :FSC suspends and terminates several FSC certificates in the plywood supply chain.

FSC suspends and terminates several FSC certificates in the plywood supply chain.

July 7, 2021
Fluted board trays
Revolutionising the Fresh Produce Packaging Market

Mpact® is proud to introduce their range of fresh produce trays, made from fluted board. These trays are engineered for packaging of fresh fruit and vegetables such as tomatoes, berries, leafy greens, stone fruit & avocados.

July 14, 2021
Forests Forward WWF
A better future for forests, WWF launches the Forests Forward Program!

World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) has a long history of engaging with forest owners, managers, and timber markets on responsible forest management, promoting a new generation of sustainable timber plantations, restoring forest landscapes, and supporting forest-based interventions for wildlife and freshwater climate and people.

July 15, 2021
Forest landscape  - Courtesy Forestry South Africa
FSC Ecosystem Services Procedure Training

Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™) Southern Africa has released online training on the FSC Ecosystem Services Procedure.

August 6, 2021
Clicks Retailer
Clicks signs a promotional license agreement with FSC.

The Forest Stewardship Council® is pleased to announce that New Clicks South Africa Limited has signed a promotional license agreement with FSC®.

August 5, 2021
Gabon Forest FSC Africa
So, what is Focus Forests exactly?

 

A passionate and exciting debate is going on in FSC about the best way to ensure robust stewardship of the forests of the world.

August 5, 2021
Nelson Mandela Day 2021
Mandela Day: Walking into the light

“This is not certifiable”. The heavy sediment in the muddy water running from the harvesting site was the last straw and thus rang the words of the first FSC forest management audit in South Africa.

July 16, 2021
Cliks
Clicks signs a promotional license agreement with FSC.

The Forest Stewardship Council® is pleased to announce that New Clicks South Africa Limited has signed a promotional license agreement with FSC®.

July 14, 2021
FSC Friday english 2021
Save the date: Celebrate FSC Friday on 24 September 2021

On 24 September 2021 we celebrate FSC Friday.

July 12, 2021
Gombe by CBG
Knowledge building and promotion of a lesser-known species, the project: GOMBE BY CBG

The global target of this project supported by the PPECF is to guarantee the economic viability of an abundant species allowing the survival of responsible management systems in Central Africa. The diversification of species to be offered on the markets is becoming a necessity.

July 7, 2021
Promotional material East africa
Awareness materials produced by FSC Eastern Africa on FSC certification

FSC Eastern Africa is happy to announce the production of information materials on FSC certification

July 6, 2021
Logo Albert II Foundation
How FSC Congo Basin is working to Certify 15 million Hectares of Gabon’s Forest Concessions

The Government of Gabon has issued a groundbreaking decision to certify 100% of Gabonese forest concessions to FSC Standards. This project is supported through a grant from the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation.

May 1, 2021
International Day of Forest 2021 Gabon
FSC Congo Basin celebrates International Forest Day in Gabon

On the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Forests, March 27, 2021, the regional office of FSC Congo Basin, represented by Mr. George Akwah Neba, coordinator of FSC Congo Basin, and Ms. Nathalie Bouville, FSC Africa Communication Manager, took part in a planting activity.

April 28, 2021
Educational Environment Gabon
FSC Congo Basin launches an environmental awareness campaign in Libreville, Gabon

In April 2021, the regional office of FSC Congo Basin in Gabon and the consulting firm TEREA have jointly organized environmental education sessions in the elementary school Gros Bouquet 1 in Libreville, Gabon.

April 28, 2021
Indigenous expert group
World Day for Cultural Diversity – 21 May: An FSC Perspective

"Forest for all forever", the FSC motto translates into the permanency of our planet's forests through responsible forest management while leaving no one behind.

April 27, 2021
New Forest Company
The New Forests Company obtains FSC Chain of Custody certification in Uganda

The New Forests Company (NFC) is Eastern Africa’s latest recipient of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody certificate (COC) for its forestry operations in Uganda.

April 27, 2021
Mpact Reycling
Waste Collectors - a critical cog in the Recycling Story

A paper tower rolls at a snail’s pace in the emergency lane of a busy street. You have seen these waste collectors before.

April 26, 2021
WHO day
World Health Day, 7 April 2021: Building a fairer, healthier world for everyone

The theme for World Health Day 2021 is “Building a fairer, healthier world for everyone

April 6, 2021
Congo Basin forest 2
Implementation of FSC National Standards in three Congo Basin countries go effective

FSC National Standards revision processes were initiated in 2015 in the Congo Basin, in the Republic of Congo, Cameroon and Gabon.

April 2, 2021
Busoga Forestry Company
In Uganda, the FSC certified Busoga Forestry Company helps local communities access potable water.

With 25 years of operations in Uganda, Busoga Forestry Company Ltd has a long history of helping communities. In addition to their plantation activities, the company supports community initiatives to improve water access for domestic use in nearby villages.

April 1, 2021
Nile Fiber Board
New FSC Forest Management certificate holder in East Africa

Nile Fibre Board (NFB), a subsidiary of Nile Plywoods, becomes the newest FSC Forest Management certificate holder in Uganda after taking over Global Woods AG.

April 1, 2021
Pesticides
A New Perspective on Pesticides

A revised FSC Pesticides Policy means new rules for foresters to follow. But more importantly, suggests Manushka Moodley, it should change the way we think.

March 26, 2021
Namibia Project bush biomass
Pilot on FSC Certified Charcoal Production in Communal Areas kicks off

Launched on 17 March 2021, the “Commercialisation of Bush Biomass in Communal Areas through FSC certification” pilot project supports community forests to test suitable methods for harvesting and processing bush biomass in communal areas through sustainable charcoal production. The initiative is implemented by the Directorate of Forestry and the GIZ Bush Control and Biomass Utilisation Project in partnership with the De-bushing Advisory Service, a division of Namibia Biomass Industry Group with technical expertise by the CMO group.

March 26, 2021
Consultation
FSC Congo Basin is looking for a Consultant fluent in Mandarin in Gabon

Find below the Terms of References for this consultancy

March 19, 2021
World Water Day, March 22nd, 2021
World Water Day - 22 March, 2021 : What does water mean to you?

An exclusive interview with Dr David Lindley from World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) South Africa, by Gerard Busse, Marketing Manager, Forest Stewardship Council South Africa

March 16, 2021
Mac Mac Falls - International Day of Forests
Celebrating International Day of Forests on 21 March 2021 - Forest Restoration – everyone has a role to play

2021 marks the start of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration which aims to prevent, halt and reverse the degradation of ecosystems worldwide. The intended outcome is to increase eco-logical resilience and productivity by putting trees and forests back into degraded forest landscapes at a massive scale. It is thus no surprise that the theme this year for the United Nation’s International Day of Forests on the 21 March 2021 is “Forest restoration: a path to recovery and well-being”. (FAO 2021)

March 11, 2021
wetlands water lilies
Celebrating Wetlands in South Africa and their contribution to water resource management

As we celebrate World Wetlands Day on 02 February, let us reflect on the 2021 theme “Wetlands and Water”, which highlights the contribution of wetlands to the quantity and quality of freshwater on our planet.

February 1, 2021
Kenya INS
The FSC Kenya Interim National Standard is now effective

As of May 1st, FSC is happy to announce that the Kenya Interim National Norm is effective.

January 28, 2021
Esteban Toja
New Certification Advisor for FSC Congo Basin

Arrival of Esteban Toja in the FSC Congo Basin staff

January 14, 2021
Official picture Training Ministry
Capacity-building for officials of the Ministry of Forest in Libreville, Gabon.

From Monday 30 November to Thursday 3 December 2020, a training session on FSC certification was organized for Forestry Officials and held in the Auditorium of the Ministry of Ministry of Water, Forests, Sea and Environment, in charge of the Climate and Land Use Plans.

December 17, 2020
Official picture Gabon Members Meeting
FSC Members of Gabon held first face to face meeting in 2020

On Tuesday 17 November 2020, the FSC members of Gabon held an important meeting at the Hotel Hibiscus de Louis in Libreville, Gabon.

December 17, 2020
George Akwah Neba
New Sub Regional Coordinator for FSC Congo Basin

FSC Africa is happy to welcome its new Sub Regional Coordinator as of January 1st, 2021.

December 16, 2020
Harrison Kojwang meets with KFS
FSC Africa Director meets with Kenya Forest Service

FSC started discussions with Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to assess potential collaboration
and possible commencement of the certification process for forests in Kenya.

December 16, 2020
Khosi Mavimbela
Introducing South Africa’s Women in Forestry initiative

Interview with Women in Forestry Chairwoman and South Forestry Sector Charter Council (FSCC) Executive Director Khosi Mavimbela

December 16, 2020
Detpack Grace bag
A stylish solution for Retailers

The Detpak Grace Bag is a sophisticated, beautiful and stylish generic paper bag option for anyone wanting to differentiate their packaging options.

December 16, 2020
Gabonese forest
FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard of Gabon Published

The standard becomes effective on 15 March 2021.

December 16, 2020
Newsletter
Important Information: FSC Africa Newsletter

To continue receiving this Newsletter, Please read this

December 11, 2020
FSC visits BGF
Better Globe Forestry (BGF) embarks on the FSC certification journey in Kenya

Better Globe Forestry (BGF) Limited, a forestry company working in Kenya since 2004 and in Uganda since 2009, has embarked on a journey to obtain FSC certification for its forestry operations in Kenya, to begin with.

November 25, 2020
Aldi Charcoal Namibia
Award for FSC™ Charcoal Project in Namibia goes to ALDI SÜD and ALDI Nord, the German born retailer chain.

ALDI SÜD and ALDI Nord won this year’s Sustainability Heroes Award in the category “Social Commitment” for their charcoal project in Namibia which was realized in cooperation with FSC International. The prize was awarded to a project in which the two leading discount store chains have been supporting sustainable charcoal production in Namibia since 2019. As part of the project, the charcoal was certified according to the Forest Stewardship Council™’s (FSC) ecologically and socially responsible standards.

November 17, 2020
Namibia Ecosystem Services
Creating Value for Land Managers: Verified FSC® Ecosystem Services Claim in Namibia

Ecosystem services refers to the benefits that we obtain from nature, and looks at elements such as water, carbon, biodiversity, soil, recreational services.

November 17, 2020
no AAF increase
No AAF Increase in 2021

FSC is pleased to announce that it will not increase the annual administration fee (AAF) in 2021.

October 27, 2020
Busoga Forestry Company
Ugandan Forest Company obtains FSC Chain of Custody certification.

Busoga Forestry Company Ltd. (BFC) a subsidiary of Green Resources AS is the proud recipient of a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Chain of Custody certificate (COC) which has lifted the market appeal for its quality products from a sustainably managed resource.

October 26, 2020
Mkaa Endelevu
Mkaa Endelevu in Tanzania obtains East Africa’s first FSC certificate for Briquetted Charcoal.

Operating in the Iringa Region in the Southern highlands of Tanzania, Tractors Ltd, locally known as Mkaa Endelevu is the leading producer of sustainable and organic charcoal briquettes and other bio-waste products which include bio-char, wood vinegar, and the wood preservative – wood tar.

October 26, 2020
Flags
Good news for the FSC Congo Basin as the year 2020 draws to a close:

The official publication of the revised FSC national standards for forest certification in Cameroon and Congo.

October 26, 2020
Namibia Charcoal 2
The story of sustainable charcoal in Namibia

As Namibia sees climate change increasingly affecting the country, FSC certification has become a sustainable, environmentally and economically beneficial solution, providing better working conditions and future prospects for thousands of small farmers.

October 23, 2020
FSC Friday 2020 logo 2
FSC™ Friday well supported

We love forests!

October 23, 2020
©Woolworths new bags
Woolworths launches innovative "circular economy" inspired paper shopping bags

As part of its ZERO packaging waste to landfill commitment, Woolworths set ambitious targets of phasing out single-use plastic bags as well as for all its packaging to be reusable or recyclable by 2022.

October 20, 2020
Carbon monitoring tool
FSC Forest Carbon Monitoring Tool Ready for Use

FSC forest management certificate holders now have a customized, cost-effective and practical tool at their disposal to calculate forest carbon.

October 8, 2020
Drapeau Congo Brazzaville
Revised National Forest Stewardship Standards for The Republic of Congo

The standard becomes effective on 06 January 2021

October 6, 2020
Retail shopping
Increasing the FSC™ Brand Awareness across Southern Africa

Two major retailers in South Africa sign Trademark Licence Agreement with FSC

October 3, 2020
Drapeau Cameroun
FSC Publishes The Revised National Forest Stewardship Standard of Cameroon

The standard will be effective on 29 December 2020.

September 29, 2020
STTC image
19 November 2020 – STTC annual Online Conference

Holding the line and moving forward: the roots for a green recovery

September 16, 2020
FSC Friday english 2020
Support Responsible Forestry on FSC® Friday 2020

FSC Celebrates Forests for All Together on FSC Friday, on Friday, September 25th

September 16, 2020
Hand over tree
Ecosystem Services Webinar held for Congo Basin stakeholders

In June, FSC Africa organized a webinar training on Ecosystem Services for the Congo Basin stakeholders.

July 27, 2020
Matatiele
A charcoal producer on top of the world

On a chilly Friday in June, Bongiwe Mafuya pulled on her facemask and signed an agreement with FSC® outside the ERS offices near Matatiele. She was joining the CMO Group Scheme, through which FSC-certified charcoal from her emerging business, KwaBhaca Nature Solutions (KwaBhaca means the home of the Bhaca tribe), will be sold into export markets.

July 22, 2020
Congo Basin tree
The IFL debate in Congo Basin is still raging

Article from STTC review including interviews from ATIBT and FSC General Directors.

July 21, 2020
Gabon GEN
Status of National Forest Stewardship Standards (NFSS) in the Congo Basin

Cameroon approved! Final stretch for the Republic of Congo and Gabon.

July 20, 2020
Mondi Zimele
Smallholder certification in South Africa

A milestone for smallholder certification has been achieved in the midst of difficult times with the coronavirus pandemic and increased unemployment in South Africa.

July 20, 2020
Communal land South Africa
A watershed moment for FSC® in rural South Africa

For the first time in Africa, a FSC-certified charcoal production project is rolling out on traditional communal land, linking informal microenterprises in remote areas with big business and markets around the world.

July 20, 2020
Emballage responsable 2
Raising the bar in Sustainable Forest Products Certification

According to a recent Accenture global survey (Webber, 2020) 83% of people surveyed believe it’s important or extremely important for companies to develop products that are meant to be reused or recycled

July 15, 2020
Wooden poles South Africa
A reflection on the Wooden Pole Market in South Africa

The South African wooden pole market is a subsector within the forestry sector and forms part of the Forestry Master Plan currently under development. This plan is part of the Public and Private Growth Initiative process.

July 15, 2020
Uganda protecting biodiversity
Biodiversity and livelihoods flourish in Uganda’s FSC certified plantations

With over 280 bird species, a variety of mammals and a wide range of plants, Kikonda Central Forest Reserve in Kyankwanzi District, west of Kampala close to the oil city of Hoima has become a model for biodiversity conservation, community empowerment and responsible forest management.

July 15, 2020
FCAG Kenya at work
The Forest Certification Awareness Group takes on awareness-raising in Kenya

Forestry experts, managers, and owners in Kenya stand to benefit immensely from the rising levels of awareness in forest certification promoted by organized groups with a goal: to strengthen the sharing of knowledge and information for the implementation of responsible forest management and trade in responsibly sourced forest products in Kenya.

July 15, 2020
Wood id
FSC and wood identification technologies: the Gabon example.

Wood identification technologies can make it possible to identify harvest location of timber species Traditional wood anatomy enables scientists to determine genus and family, and sometimes species, depending on the circumstances.

June 30, 2020
Indigenous foundation logo
FSC Launches Indigenous Foundation

To give a voice to Indigenous Peoples on the continued management and preservation of the world’s forests, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has established the FSC Indigenous Foundation.

June 22, 2020
SDG , life on land, ending poverty
SDG 15: Life on Land

We secure Life on Land through responsible management of our forests

June 2, 2020
Green Europe
FSC Joins Alliance Committed to Coronavirus Green Recovery

The coronavirus pandemic has had, and will continue to have, far-reaching social and economic consequences.

June 1, 2020
Espèces menacées
This Friday, May 15th, the Forest Stewardship Council ™ (FSC™) reaffirms its support for endangered species.

As a key actor in sustainable forest management, the FSC is very involved in the conservation of biodiversity, particularly when it comes to protecting endangered species. We review below some of the actions geared towards the protection of nature in Africa carried out by FSC-certified forestry companies.

May 13, 2020
Espèces menacées
Endangered Species Day: FSC’s system is a reliable supporter of CITES

FSC's support against the trade of endangered species

May 13, 2020
Likawage village mobile saw mill
Rural Communities in Tanzania clinch mega-deal to supply FSC certified sawn timber to Serengeti Park Ecolodge

Rural communities in South-eastern Tanzania are reaping the fruits of responsible forest manage-ment practices having clinched a multi-million shilling contract to supply FSC certified sawn timber to Grumeti Reserves Eco Lodge in the famous Serengeti National Park.

May 6, 2020
Covid-19
Public and private Forestry sector’s response to the COVID-19 crisis in the Congo Basin

In the current global health crisis, Africa is the least affected continent with the fewest number of COVID-19 positive cases. However, the pandemic is present in Africa, particularly in South Africa, Egypt and Morocco.

May 4, 2020
Charcoal worker on farm
From Bush to Charcoal: the Greenest Charcoal Comes from Namibia

Faced with extreme climate conditions, Namibian farmers have learnt to diversify their activities, especially by producing FSC certified charcoal

April 30, 2020
Congo Basin forest
A Study to Assess the Economic Impact of IFLs in the Congo Basin

What is the impact in the Congo Basin of the FSC rules for protecting Intact Forest Landscapes (IFL)?

April 30, 2020
SDG Group in Gabon
Update on the National Forest Stewardship Standards in the Congo Basin

National Standards close to being approved

April 30, 2020
Kenya INS
Kenya embarks in the FSC Interim National Standard to reinforce the responsible management of its forests,

A key step towards responsible forest management in Kenya

April 30, 2020
eSwatini flag
FSC Launches the Interim National Standard for eSwatini

The interim national standard for eSwatini will become effective on 14 July 2020.

April 30, 2020
Audit assessment in Namibia
Covid-19 update for Certification Bodies

Given the developments around the global outbreak of COVID-19 and the extensive travel restrictions, we have adjusted our requirements.

April 27, 2020
Emmanuel Groutel
Thoughts on Responsible forest management in a Post-COVID-19 era in the Congo Basin.

For the last few weeks, nature's sounds can be heard again in cities, forests and natural settings are rediscovered. Many speculate about how the world will be different when the covid19 crisis is over. Environmental concerns will be at the forefront of policies. Will it really? Won't all those good intentions soon be forgotten?

April 21, 2020
Kim Carstensen
Pulling Together in a Time of Isolation

Like many organizations around the world, FSC International held its very first virtual staff meeting a few weeks ago.

April 15, 2020
Namibia  grassland
1,6 million hectares: Namibia reaches new heights in FSC certification

Namibia has achieved 1,6 million hectares of FSC Forest Management certified area with approximately 320 land owners/managers.

April 10, 2020
Biodiversity and conservation
Why plantations are NOT green deserts

Forestry South Africa research and protection director Dr Ronald Heath talks about how the commercial forestry industry is leading the way in conserving and rehabilitating areas of high biodiversity value and challenges people to think differently about plantations.

April 10, 2020
Forets Nord Congo
Significant increase in the FSC-FM certified area in Congo

Finally, some good news in these difficult times! In total, over 2.9 million hectares of forests are now FSC certified in the Republic of Congo.

April 7, 2020
Two Cheetahs
International Day of Forest, March 21st, 2020

FSC forest management standards place strict requirements on forest managers to maintain biodiversity and ecosystem functions.

March 15, 2020
SDG , life on land, ending poverty
FSC® - a valuable tool for implementing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals, also referred to as the Sus-tainable Development Goals are a universal commitment to ending poverty, protecting the planet and ensuring human well-being.

February 6, 2020
Minister of Forests of Gabon and Kim Carstensen, Executive Director of FSC sign partnership agreement.
FSC in Gabon: Starting the journey towards 100% certification

A cooperation agreement was signed between the Ministry of Forests of Gabon and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in Libreville on January 31, 2020.

February 6, 2020
news
Training sessions on the newly approved National Forest Stewardship Standard for Namibia

Register for our training workshops

January 9, 2020
Consultation
Progress report on FSC National Forest Stewardship Standards in the Congo Basin

National standards of 3 countries in the Congo Basin submitted to FSC international by end of 2019

December 12, 2019
ecosystem services training
Raising awareness on responsible forest management in Southern Africa through training

Sustainable forest management has become a vital issue for consumers and governments around the world. Training is an essential part of FSC’s efforts to raise public awareness on the way we use the world’s forest resources.

December 12, 2019
Namibia Charcoal
FSC® certified charcoal from Namibia creates jobs and preserves the environment.

Namibia’s natural ecosystem is endangered by a terrible drought and the proliferation of invasive species

December 12, 2019
Wood Sample
FSC Congo Basin participates in the FSC Global Timber Referencing project.

Gabon is the first country in Africa to take part in the FSC tree library project.

December 12, 2019
Bertin Tchikangwa
New Sub-regional Coordinator for FSC Congo Basin.

FSC welcomes a new Coordinator for Congo Basin

December 12, 2019
Indigenous expert group
In the Congo Basin, FSC trains indigenous peoples to protect their rights

The ForestStewardship Council (FSC) is currently conducting a pioneering training programme for Indigenous Peoples of the Congo Basin.

December 11, 2019
Gabon Wood Show 2
FSC at the Gabon WoodShow for the second time

FSC Congo Basin took part in the Gabon Wood 2nd edition from 24 to 26 June 2019 in Libreville, Gabon.

December 11, 2019
Panel Business FOrum Kenya
FSC Eastern Africa holds Business Forum in Nairobi on: Enhancing Market for certified wood and related products in Kenya.

To increase business opportunities and new markets for Kenya’s wood sector, the private and public agencies must commit to encourage and promote forest certification for sustainable production and sourcing of wood and related products.

December 11, 2019
Tropical forest
The importance of purchasing responsibly sourced tropical wood

Did you know that buying certified tropical woods products helps preserve the forest?

December 11, 2019
Pannelists of the conference
South Africa spotlight on voluntary sustainability standards

Our Marketing Manager, Gerard Busse recently attended the South African Initiative on Voluntary Sustainability Standards Conference held in Pretoria earlier this month.

December 5, 2019
Namibian bush
National Forest Management Standard for the Republic of Namibia is Approved

The Forest Stewardship Council is proud to announce the launch of a comprehensive new standard for responsible forest management in Namibia

November 26, 2019
Gerard Busse
New Marketing and Communication Manager joins FSC Southern Africa team

Gerard Busse is our new Marketing Manager

October 14, 2019
Forest elephants at CEB Precious Woods FSC certified concessions
On the trail of Gabon’s forest elephants :

A vivid account from one of FSC International staff visiting the Congo Basin

October 13, 2019
news
Webinars on FSC policy conversion

Public consultation on FSC policy conversion. Time to register and participate in our webinars

August 13, 2019
Amathole montains
Amathole, on top of the world after 20 years of certification

Much has changed at Amathole Forestry Company (Pty)Ltd (AFC) over the past 20 years, but one thing has been constant: it has retained its FSC Forest Management certification throughout this time.

August 2, 2019
MTO plantation
MTO Group takes stock of over 20 years of FSC certification

The MTO Group’s Cape plantations in South Africa celebrates more than 20 years of FSC Forest Management certification.

August 1, 2019
Assessment in progress
A new milestone for FSC in Eastern Africa: UTGA (Uganda Timber Growers Association ) obtains the first group scheme certificate in Uganda.

On May 24th,2019, after a three-year journey, UTGA (Uganda Timber Growers Association) obtained the first FSC Group scheme certification in Uganda. It is the first group scheme for plantations in the sub region.

August 1, 2019
COC companies in south africa
FSC Chain of Custody Pioneers of Innovation from South Africa

E&C Charcoal and York Timbers are celebrating over 20 years of FSC CoC certification. Both companies were among the first in Africa, and the world, to obtain this certification.

August 1, 2019
Training in progress
In the Congo Basin, FSC trains indigenous peoples to protect their rights

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is currently conducting a pioneering training programme for indigenous peoples of the Congo Basin.

August 1, 2019
FSC Ecosystem services
FSC Ecosystem Services Training in Pietermaritzburg, SouthAfrica, August 21-22, 2019

Training is for FSC forest management certificate holders, certification bodies and stakeholders who are interested in the ecosystem services concept.

August 1, 2019
Namibian bush
FSC®-certified charcoal from Namibia helps root out invasive species

FSC-certified charcoalfrom Namibia exported to Europe consists exclusively of thorn bushes. The invasive species threatens the natural ecosystem there.

August 1, 2019
Harrison Kojwang
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) appoints new Director for Africa.

FSC is proud to introduce to you its new Regional Director, Harrison Ochieng Kojwang.

August 1, 2019
north congo
In the Congo, people-centric businesses drive change

The forests of the Congo Basin constitute the second largest area of dense tropical forests in the world, after the Amazon.

July 31, 2019
news
South Africa National Forest Management Standard

NFSS and Risk Assessment for South Africa – Documentsavailable for download

December 6, 2018
Consultation
Invitation for Tender

Consultants to submit Expressions of Interest

November 9, 2018
Consultation
Public Consultation report on Draft 2 NFSS for Namibia

A public consultation on the 2nd Draft of the National Forest Stewardship Standard for Namibia was carried out for 60 days between 23 August – 22 October 2018.

November 9, 2018
Consultation
Chain of Custody Course in Johannesburg in November

Register now!

October 24, 2018
Consultation
Forest Management and Chain of Custody Courses for Auditors

CMO will be offering a variety of courses across the FSC Standards in 2019

October 24, 2018
Gabon
Gabon intends to become the largest FSC certified country in Africa

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) welcomes the recent announcement by the Republic of Gabon which has mandated for all forestry companies operating in the country to be FSC certified by 2022. This move will increase the global area of FSC certification by around 13 million hectares in the next 5 years.

September 28, 2018
Consultation
New Forests Company receives first FSC certificate in Rwanda

New Forests Rwanda Limited has officially received Forest Stewardship Council certification for the Nyungwe Buffer zone plantation in Rwanda.

September 25, 2018
Braam
Braam Steenkamp wins Sappi Forests FSC Farmer of the year award

Braam Steenkamp of the Warburton Sawmill and farm in Warburton Mpumalanga, South Africa is the winner of the 2018 Sappi Forests’ Forest Stewardship Council Group Scheme Farmer of the Year award.

September 25, 2018
Levsflor
LevasFlor looking to expand beyond Mozambique

LevasFlor, an FSC Certified company operating out of Mozambique, is planning to expand their market to Europe and South Africa by 2020. The company founded in 2006 operates a forest concession of 46 000 hectares of Miombo woodlands in Sofala Province.

September 25, 2018
Consultation
Tanzania publishes its FSC National Forest Stewardship Standards

Tanzania have become the second African country to publish its FSC National Forest Stewardship Standards based on the latest version of the FSC Principles & Criteria.

September 25, 2018
Steve Ball
From the Africa Director : the potential of Forest Landscape Restoration

I spent the last week of August at back to back conferences in Nairobi on the topic of Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) which is the modern jargon for planting trees (and much more too).

September 25, 2018
Consultation
The second draft of the Namibian National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) is out for public consultation

The Namibian SDG is seeking comments on the field tested Draft of NFSS for Namibia. Public consultation will be open for comment for 60 days from 23 August – 22 October 2018

August 22, 2018
news
National Risk Assessment (NRA) for eSwatini (Swaziland) is open for Public Consultation

This draft of the NRA for eSwatini has been developed through the collaboration of a Working Group with national representatives from the environmental, social, and economic interest groups as well as stakeholder engagement with key experts

July 7, 2018
NFSS launch Uganda
Uganda launches Africa first FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard

Uganda becomes the first country in Africa to publish the FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) based on Version 5 of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Principles and Criteria (P&C). The standard will be effective from 1st September 2018.

July 3, 2018
FSC Congo Basin Members
FSC Congo Basin Members meet in Gabon

Prior to the business encounter on 18 June, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Congo Basin office held a meeting for their French-speaking members in Libreville, Gabon.

July 3, 2018
FSC Business Encounter
FSC engages with key stakeholders on adding value to the forestry sector in Congo Basin

On 19 June 2018, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Congo Basin office in partnership with FSC Netherlands hosted a Business Encounter in Gabon.

July 3, 2018
UWA for FSC Certification
Uganda Wildlife Authority planning for FSC certification

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is looking to achieve Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification for their 3 national parks by 2020.

July 3, 2018
FSC at Gabon Woodshow
FSC exhibits at the 2018 Gabon Wood Show

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Africa was of the exhibitors at the 2018 Gabon Wood, Woodworking & Forestry Show.

July 3, 2018
Steve Ball
Greetings from our Interim Africa Director

I have long been inspired by FSC’s mission to attach concrete value to responsible management of forests, especially in those countries where under-resourced law enforcement has led to negative perceptions about the ethics of forest products originated there.

July 3, 2018
Consultation
National Controlled Wood Risk Assessment for eSwatini (Swaziland)

In February 2018, FSC International approved the proposal to develop a National Risk Assessment (NRA) for eSwatini.

July 3, 2018
Mozambique NFSS
FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard Development in Mozambique

On 12 June 2018, The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) hosted a meeting in Maputo with various stakeholders to continue the process of developing FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) for Mozambique.

July 3, 2018
FSC meet Honourable Minister
FSC meets with Minister of Water and Environment in Uganda

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Director General Kim Carstensen, the Interim Regional Director, Mr. Steve Ball and the East Africa Project Manager, Mrs. Annah Agasha met with the Uganda Minister of Water and Environment Hon. Sam Cheptoris on 02 June 2018 in Kampala.

July 3, 2018
Group photo
FSC conducts Forest Management training in Kenya

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Africa conducted a 3-day FSC forest management course in Nairobi, Kenya from 19-21 February 2018

July 3, 2018
news
Feedback on the first draft of the Namibia National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS)public consultation

A public consultation to generate feedback on the first draft of the Namibian NFSS was carried
out for 61 days between 01 February 2018 and 02 April 2018.

June 10, 2018
FSC
FSC Director General to meet with Minister of Water and Environment in Uganda

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Director General Kim Carstensen will meet with the Uganda Minister of Water and Environment Hon. Sam Cheptoris on 02 June 2018 in Kampala.

June 1, 2018
Steve Ball
FSC Appoints Interim Africa Regional Director

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is pleased to announce it has appointed Steve Ball as FSC Interim Regional Director for Africa.

May 30, 2018
Forest
National Risk Assessment (NRA) for South Africa approved and available

The National Risk Assessment (NRA) was approved on 03 April 2018 and shall be used in implementing V3-1 of the standard.

April 4, 2018
FSC Africa Team
Farewell Message from Regional Director

FSC Africa Regional Director Chris Burchmore Steps down

March 19, 2018
Namibia
Sustainable Forest Management in Namibia on a growth path

Bush encroachment is estimated to affect up to 26 million ha (32%) of Namibia’s land and has severe negative consequences on key ecosystem services, especially agricultural productivity and groundwater recharge. Agricultural productivity in Namibia has declined by two thirds throughout the past decades, mainly due to the negative impact of bush encroachment. The phenomenon affects both commercial and communal farming in Namibia, mostly the central, eastern and north-eastern regions.

March 13, 2018
Congo Basin NFSS
SDG News Update from Congo Basin

Standard Development Groups Updates

March 12, 2018
UTGA Training
UTGA develops roadmap to pursue FSC Certification

The Uganda Timber Growers Association (UTGA) in collaboration with FSC Africa embarked on the roadmap to meet the Forest Stewardship Council (FSCTM) standard for responsible forestry. UTGA are using the flexibility of the group certification model and starting off with a small pilot group of six members. working towards attaining the certificate by the end of 2018.

March 12, 2018
Local Grower
Conservation is important to local grower

Forestry has a bright future in Africa with a potential to create employment opportunities for local communities those are the words of Barry Cole is a timber farmer in Sutherland, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa.

March 12, 2018
Forest
Ensuring responsible forest management through certification

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification system has been around for over 20 years. The FSC issues three different types of certificates: Forest Management, Chain of Custody and Controlled Wood. The different types of certificates relate to different stages of production and subsequent progress of forest products through the value chain. Verification against all FSC requirements ensures that materials and products with the FSC label are from responsibly managed forests.

March 12, 2018
Namibia NFSS
The first draft of the Namibia National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) out for public consultation

The process to develop a National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) in Namibia is underway!

March 12, 2018
news
The first draft of the Namibia National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) out for public consultation

The process to develop a National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS) in Namibia is underway!

January 31, 2018
news
FSC Africa will facilitate a course for Lead Auditors in Forest Management and Chain of Custody

FSC Africa will be facilitating a course for Lead Auditors in Forest Management and Chain of Custody in February 2018, Douala, Cameroon.

December 15, 2017
FSC Africa Team
Christmas Message: By Chris Burchmore - FSC Regional Director - Africa

The year 2017 was a very busy and fruitful one for FSC Africa and culminated into the 8th FSC General Assembly in Vancouver, Canada.

December 13, 2017
Consultation
National Forest Stewardship Standards are set to go public for Tanzania in 2018

The Tanzanian Standards Development Group (SDG) received notification in July 2017 from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Policy and Standard Unit (PSU) that a decision had been made by the Policy and Standard Committee (PSC) over the Tanzanian National Forest Stewardship Standards (NFSS).

December 13, 2017
Workshop Attendees
FSC Africa hosts a COC Course in South Africa

FSC Southern Africa hosted its 3rd on-site Chain of Custody (CoC) course at the SGS Training Centre in Johannesburg on 4-5 December 2017. The course provided both potential certificate holders and certified companies with an improved understanding of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) CoC requirements.

December 13, 2017
Consultation
Integration of indicators based on ILOs Core Conventions Principles done in Cameroon and Republic of Congo

In its 65th meeting in March 2014 the FSC International Board of Directors requested the FSC Secretariat to develop a FSC system wide solution for certificate holders’ compliance with fundamental workers’ rights (as expressed in the ILO Core Conventions and defined in the 1998 ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work).

December 13, 2017
Woodlands Dairy
Woolworths South Africa and Woodlands Dairy sign the Forest Stewardship Council Vancouver Declaration

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is proud to announce that Woolworths South Africa and Woodlands Dairy have become the first African companies to sign “The Vancouver Declaration” which was launched on 10 October 2017 at the FSC General Assembly.

December 13, 2017
Mpingo
MCDI launches first community-owned sawmill in Africa

Forest Stewardship Council certified Mpingo Conservation & Development Initiative (MCDI) plans to expand sawn timber production to two more villages in Tanzania 2018.

December 13, 2017
Dr David Everard, Divisional Environmental Manager
Sappi sponsors FSC General Assembly

Sappi the world largest producers of dissolving wood pulp were one of the silver sponsors of the 2017 FSC General Assembly.

December 13, 2017
news
Woodlands Dairy signs the Forest Stewardship Council Vancouver Declaration

Woodlands Dairy a local, Eastern Cape based processor of farm fresh milk, who produce, and package high quality dairy products has become one of the signatories of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) “Vancouver Declaration” which was launched on 10 October 2017 at the FSC General Assembly.

December 5, 2017
Consultation
Implementation of transaction verification and fibre testing in the charcoal supply chain

Confirmation of inaccuracies in the charcoal supply chain will lead to mandatory transaction verification and fibre testing starting in quarter four of 2017

November 19, 2017
Dr David Everard
Local Learnings and Global Transformation

The FSC priority project: ‘Streamline the Normative Framework’ was initiated in early 2017 to develop and test tools that incorporate principles of risk management into the development and revision processes of normative documents

November 7, 2017
news
Request for Proposal: Gap analysis study in Uganda

FSC Africa is looking for an individual consultant or company to conduct a gap analysis study in Uganda for a smallholder group that aims to acquire FSC group certification in 2018.

November 7, 2017
news
Informal meeting with stakeholders around M65

First days of the FSC 08th General Assembly have been a great opportunity to discuss – maybe for the first time for all Congo Basin stakeholders together - specific issues related to Congo Basin forests, especially around Intact Forest Landscapes (IFLs), Motion 65 implementation at the sub-regional level and next milestones to be taken.

November 7, 2017
Facing land conflict an FSC story from Uganda
Facing land conflict by growing farmers’ means to support themselves

Forestry company global-woods faces Uganda’s major challenge of land tenure by understanding exactly why farmers encroach on reserves: they do it to make a living for themselves and their families.

November 3, 2017
Taking Stock an FSC Story from South Africa
A pioneer of FSC certification takes stock

Twenty years ago, the South African Forestry Company (SAFCOL) plunged into the dark: it obtained one of the earliest FSC certificates in the world for its Komatiland Forests (KLF) operations.

November 3, 2017
Saving the cheetah an FSC Story from Namibia
Leading the race for survival of the cheetah

Harvesting native bush to produce an FSC-certified fuel log called Bushblok is a crucial leg in the race to save Namibia’s wild cheetah from extinction. At the same time, the operation encourages growth of a biomass industry with spin-offs that include more jobs and better income.

November 3, 2017
news
Woolworths signs the Forest Stewardship Council Vancouver Declaration

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is proud to announce that Woolworths South Africa has become the first African company to sign “The Vancouver Declaration” which was launched on 10 October 2017 at the FSC General Assembly.

October 30, 2017
news
National Risk Assessment (NRA) for South Africa is open for Public Consultation

Controlled Wood claims allow uncertified materials to be used in products with FSC “Mix” labels

October 14, 2017
news
FSC Africa Stories

Read about how FSC enable a local community in Uganda to engage.

October 12, 2017
news
FSC Africa Stories

Read about the journey of the South African Forestry Company (SAFCOL) 20 years journey of their Komatiland Forests (KLF) operations being FSC certified and howFSC certified Bushblok assist with cheetah conservation in Namibia

October 12, 2017
news
The application of a risk-assessment approach to FSC certification in South Africa

Case Study – South Africa

October 7, 2017
news
Message to Africa members from Babacar S. GUEYE

Important issue regarding the upcoming FSC GA

October 7, 2017
news
Why sustainable forestry is good business?

“Sustainable forestry is good business. It shows, for instance, as better planning of operations, financial management, cooperation with local people – and at the end of the day, as better products, too,” says Chris Burchmore, Director of FSC Africa.

October 7, 2017
news
New Approaches to smallholder certification moving forward

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is implementing the New Approaches project as a priority project globally. Launched as a FSC global project in 2016, New Approaches to Smallholder Certification (New Approaches) aims to improve access to, and uptake of, the FSC system by small forest owners and communities.

October 4, 2017
Gabonese field-testing in CFAD Bambidie
SDG NEWS FROM CONGO BASIN

SDG News covering the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Gabon and Republic of Congo

October 4, 2017
HCV-RWG MembersHCV-RWG Members
INTACT FOREST LANDSCAPES: towards a Regional Guideline on High Conservation Values (HCV) and an acceptable solution for all the parties

Thanks to PPECF-COMIFAC and WWF-US support, the FSC Congo Basin Office started in 2015 to develop a Regional Guideline to identify, manage, and monitor High Conservation Values (HCV) from the Congo Basin forests.Thanks to PPECF-COMIFAC and WWF-US support, the FSC Congo Basin Office started in 2015 to develop a Regional Guideline to identify, manage, and monitor High Conservation Values (HCV) from the Congo Basin forests.

October 3, 2017
news
Woodlands Dairy achieves 100% FSC logo on their products

Woodlands Dairy a local, Eastern Cape processor of farm fresh milk, who produce and package high quality dairy products has achieved 100% FSC logo on package.

October 3, 2017
Manushka Moodley (FSC) , Tom McLaughlin (WooManushka Moodley (FSC), Tom McLaughlin (Woolworths), Andrew Zwicky (Avery Dennison),Mark Ellis(Avery Dennison)and Grant Watson (Rotolabel) and  (Avery Dennison) a
Sustainable Labels from start to finish

In an unprecedented collaborative effort, Woolworths, Avery-Dennison and Rotolabel have jointly put the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) seal of approval on labelling material.

October 3, 2017
Namibia SDG working group
FSC National Forest Stewardship Standard Development in Namibia

The FSC Principles and Criteria (P&C) set out the global requirements for achieving FSC forest management certification.

October 3, 2017
news
National Risk Assessment – South Africa

The South African National Risk Assessment (NRA) process began in early 2017 with the establishment of a NRA Working Group

October 3, 2017
Opening Day
UPM Opens a Paper Mill in Ga-Rankuwa

On 8 September 2017, Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified, Universal Paper Manufacturers (UPM) opened doors to their new Green Field Tissue Mill in Ga-Rankuwa outside Pretoria.

October 3, 2017
Workshop Attendees
Pilot FSC awareness course for BWI affiliate trade unions in Southern Africa

FSC Africa in partnership with the Builders and Workers International (BWI) Africa Middle East Region hosted an FSC training session in Durban, South Africa on 13 -15 September 2017.

October 3, 2017
Consultation
SA draft national forest stewardship standard complete

SDG-SA would like to thank all those who submitted comments on the Draft 3 forest-tested version of the SA national FSC standard.

May 19, 2017
Consultation
Advancing SDG Implementation through Forest Certification

A year after the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development was adopted, implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) it introduced has gained momentum.

January 25, 2017
ivory
China to ban all commercial trade in ivory by the end of 2017

In December of 2016, China announced that it will be banning all commerce in ivory by the end of 2017, a move that would shut down the world’s largest ivory market and could deal a critical blow to the practice of elephant poaching in Africa.

January 25, 2017
Global partnership logo
FSC and the Global Partnership on Forest Landscape Restoration

FSC joined the Global Partnership on Forest Landscape Restoration in 2016. In 2017, FSC is taking an exciting step to participate in the Global Partnership on Forest Landscape Restoration, which aims to restore 150 million hectares of the world’s deforested and degraded land by 2020 and 350 million hectares by 2030.

January 25, 2017
Consultation
New FSC Africa members platform available

During our 2016 members meeting in Johannesburg, our members asked us to create more platforms and opportunities to improve communication between different chambers and also create a more unified Africa membership base.

January 25, 2017
mozam
New law to halt illegal logging in Mozambique

As part of efforts to protect the country’s hardwood forests, the Mozambican parliament unanimously passed a bill that will ban the export of unprocessed timber logs.

January 25, 2017
beans
New strategy to prevent deforestation in East Africa? Stakeholders spill the beans.

At a factory in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, workers steam-cook beans in big metal containers, before cooling and packaging them for sale. The beans can be reheated in 15 minutes or less, requiring far less firewood than the two to three hours it would take to cook them from scratch.

January 25, 2017
GA
The FSC General Assembly 2017

The FSC General Assembly is FSC’s highest decision-making body.
Every three years, members of the social, environmental and economic chambers of FSC come together to discuss a sustainable future for the world’s forests and the people who inhabit them.

January 25, 2017
Consultation
Training opportunities for stakeholders in 2017

There will be many exciting training opportunities available for interested stakeholders throughout 2017.

January 25, 2017
Meeting
FSC Board Approves Plan to Address False Claims in the FSC System

The Forest Stewardship Council’s (FSC) international Board of Directors has approved a new approach for addressing misleading and false claims in the FSC system. The set of actions compliments the newly revised CoC standard.

January 16, 2017
Mpingo
The Little African Tree With a Big Impact on People’s Lives

Villagers of south-eastern Tanzania have been working hard to save a small scruffy tree from obliteration. In the process, they have found that they are saving themselves.

January 10, 2017
Consultation
FSC Publishes Revised Chain of Custody Standards

1 January 2017 – The FSC Board of Directors has approved revised FSC chain-of-custody standards FSC-STD-40-004 V3-0 and FSC-STD-20-011 V4-0. The revised standards will become effective on 1 April 2017.

January 5, 2017
Consultation
FSC makes new progress to protect Intact Forest Landscapes

The Policy and Standards Director and the Steering Committee of Motion 65 have approved a new advice note for the interpretation of the default clause of Motion 65 (ADV-20-007-018 V1-0). It became effective on 1 January 2017.

January 5, 2017
Consultation
Open for Consultation: An FSC Carbon Footprint Procedure

All FSC stakeholders are invited to join a consultation on the possible introduction of a voluntary FSC Carbon Footprint Procedure. This procedure would assist FSC certificate holders in quantifying the greenhouse gas emissions and climate benefits related to FSC-certified materials and products. The consultation period runs from 29 November 2016 to 10 January 2017.

December 9, 2016
news
Danone advert in Tunisia displays FSC certified packaging

Take a look at this great advert for Danao, Danone.

December 9, 2016
Pesticides
Call for comments: Version 3.0 of the South African National Forest Stewardship Standard (NFSS)

This will be the last opportunity to comment prior to submission to the FSC for approval. Closing date for stakeholder comment is 30th January, 2017.

November 29, 2016
Consultation
Reminder: Controlled Wood Survey

This is a reminder to take part in the FSC Controlled Wood Strategy Survey. The results of this survey will help shape the future of the Controlled Wood Program and FSC in general. Therefore, we strongly encourage you, as an FSC stakeholder, to make your opinions known.

November 25, 2016
Gender
Seeing 2020: why the forestry industry must strive for gender equality

In this guest special, Chairperson of the FSC International Board of Directors, Rulita Wijayaningdyah describes her first-hand experience of gender equality, and inequality, in the forestry industry.

November 22, 2016
Pesticides
Controlled Wood Strategy Survey Goes Online

Dear FSC Network partners,

We are happy to announce that the FSC Controlled Wood Strategy survey is online! If your e-mail address was on one of the mailing lists FSC IC has access to, you should have received an invitation e-mail with a personalized link.

November 10, 2016
CAFF
Keeping the forest and bettering lives.

Authored and first published by Meindert Brouwer in his book Central African Forests Forever.

The rainforest concession of timber producer IFO in the north of the Republic of Congo is the largest FSC-certified single Forest concession in Africa.

November 9, 2016
Consultation
Reminder - Public Consultation: 2017 Assessment Planning

ASI opened a public consultation on 20 October, to gather input on the 2017 Assessment Schedule. We invited ASI Stakeholders via the ASI Newsletter.

November 9, 2016
forest
$24 million dollars to restore forests in Ghana using FSC certified plantations.

On 22 September, the African Development Bank (AfDB) announced that it had granted approval for $24 million to be channelled towards restoring degraded forest reserves and doubling a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forest plantation in Ghana.

October 27, 2016
members meeting
Fruitful discussions at the third regional members meeting in Johannesburg.

On 13-14 October, FSC staff and members gathered at the Leriba Hotel and Spa in Johannesburg, South Africa for what promised to be a very eventful two days! This was the third in a global series of regional members meetings.

October 27, 2016
Labelwise
Labelwise campaign launches in South Africa

A global first: a brand new campaign that celebrates the (keyboard) power of South Africans was launched in October 2016. The campaign aims to help ordinary South Africans understand what impact the content of their shopping baskets and smart devices can have on saving the planet and empowering local communities.

October 27, 2016
smallholder NAI
Breaching the gap: designing smallholder-inclusive certification

On 13-14 September, a group of 36 experts from allover the world (all linked to East and southern Africa), with different professional backgrounds assembled in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This diverse group of individuals were invited by FSC to provide their input to the first Eastern and Southern Africa expert engagement workshop on smallholder certification.

October 27, 2016
Consultation
Summary of the 11th Scientific Conference of Forestry Society of Kenya (FSK).

The 11th Scientific Conference of FSK took place from 27-30 September in Eldoret, Kenya. The FSK is a membership organization of professional foresters in Kenya.

October 17, 2016
FSC Friday
FSC Friday celebrations, Africa style!

Every year, FSC celebrates a global day of awareness around responsible forest management on the last Friday of September.

October 17, 2016
Consultation
Open for Consultation: Report on Compliance with the Principles of the International Labour Organization Core Conventions.

FSC invites all stakeholders to comment on a draft report containing generic criteria and indicators for compliance with the principles of the International Labour Organization (ILO) core conventions. The consultation period opens on 10 October 2016 and closes on 08 December 2016.

October 17, 2016
Consultation
Motion 65 IFLs Advice Note: Open for Consultation.

Last month, after extensive stakeholder feedback, the FSC International Board of Directors decided to revise the default indicator in motion 65 due to the potential for significant undesired side effects in priority Intact Forest Landscape (IFL) countries. As a result, FSC is seeking input on updated guidelines for motion 65 implementation in Brazil, Canada, the Congo Basin, and Russia through a public consultation that will close on 6 December 2016.

October 17, 2016
Survey
Take part in the 2016 FSC Global Market Survey.

FSC is calling on certificate holders and trademark service licence holders to participate in its 2016 Global Market Survey. We would like to thank those who have already completed the survey – your feedback is really appreciated.

October 17, 2016
CW
FSC Controlled Wood Strategy podcast available for download.

The Controlled Wood strategy process, headed by the FSC Board Strategy Planning committee, is now underway! If you are confused about the current state of Controlled Wood (CW), or just want to know more about it, you can now listen to our podcast.

October 17, 2016
Meeting
Intact Forest Landscapes: Motion 65 implementation in the Congo Basin (Summary of joint meeting with ATIBT-WWF)

Following the first meeting of the High Conservation Values (HCV) Regional Working Group and the second Intact Forest Landscapes (IFL) Solutions Forum, held in June and July 2016 respectively, a joint meeting was organized on 01st September 2016 in Paris by WWF and ATIBT (Association Technique Internationale des Bois Tropicaux) to discuss the outcomes of these two important working sessions and plans to move forward, in collaboration with FSC.

October 17, 2016
Consultation
High Conservation Value Assessors Course.12-14 December 2016, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

The concept of High Conservation Values (HCV), initially developed as part of the FSC Principles and Criteria, is applied widely today in relation to the management of natural resources, in forestry, agriculture, biofuels/biomaterials, and other areas.

October 17, 2016
Meeting
Small Producer FSC certification meetings initiated In Kenya.

Whilst recognising that smallholders are yet to be fully integrated in the supply chain of forest products, the Farm Forestry Small Producers Association of Kenya (FFSPAK) has decided to work closely with FSC East Africa Office to promote FSC certification amongst its country-wide membership.

October 17, 2016
Pesticides
South African derogations approved

On 09 September 2016, the use of Alpha-Cypermethrin, Cypermethrin and Deltamethrin in South Africa was approved by the FSC pesticides committee for specific certificate holders.

October 17, 2016
news
FSC Africa Newsletter

It has come to our attention that due to a server malfunction, the message sent yesterday regarding the language preference selection for the FSC Africa newsletter was received multiple times by some stakeholders.

September 23, 2016
Consultation
South Africa FSC Standard development process on track, and attracts international acclaim and interest

The National FSC standard development process is on track and the innovative approach adopted by the Standard Development Group (SDG-SA) has attracted international attention and commendation. SDG-SA elected at the outset to develop a Standard tailored to the South African timber plantation industry that could be applied to all scales of forestry, very much in line with the FSC’s global strategic plan.

September 23, 2016
Consultation
National Risk Assessment Update – South Africa

FSC International recently permitted the launch of the South African National Risk Assessment (NRA) process. The NRA Working Group is yet to be established and a proposal submitted to FSC International.

September 19, 2016
Consultation
Central National Risk Assessment Category 3 Workshop Update

FSC Africa has commenced the process of the Centralised National Risk Assessment (CNRA) in Swaziland with Category 3.

September 19, 2016
Meeting
Motion 65: revision of default indicator for protection of Intact Forest Landscapes (IFLs)

After extensive stakeholder feedback, the FSC International Board of Directors has decided to revise the default indicator in motion 65 due to the potential for significant undesired side effects in priority IFL countries. The board also concluded that guidelines for Indigenous Cultural Landscapes (ICLs) would need to be integrated into the implementation of motion 65.

September 7, 2016
Meeting
BM72 Decision Record Is Now Available

The decision record of FSC International Board Meeting (BM) 72 provides a quick overview of important decisions made during the latest board meeting.

September 7, 2016
Consultation
Incorporating Gender Equality in National Forest Stewardship Standards.

With the release of a new guidance document on gender equality, empowering women in the workplace is expected to take centre stage in FSC’s national forest standards.

September 7, 2016
news
Warning: Fraudulent activity

It has come to the attention of the FSC Africa office that fraudulent claims of on-site visits by fraudsters posing as FSC International are on-going in various countries in Southern Africa.

September 5, 2016
SAA TetraPak
Forests for All Forever: Driving Consumer Demand for Sustainability Through Meaningful Marketing.

At Sustainable brands 2016 in Cape Town in May, Tetra Pak, South African Airways (SAA) and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) came together to share their views on the importance of building market demand from environmentally conscious consumers to move sustainable commodities further into the mainstream.

September 5, 2016
Handshake
ASI Lifts the suspension of Exova BM Trada.

Effective 16 August 2016, Accreditation Services International (ASI) has lifted the suspension of FSC-accredited certification body Exova BM Trada. The company is qualified for FSC Chain of Custody (CoC) certification worldwide and to date has issued over 2400 valid FSC CoC certificates.

August 26, 2016
FSC Friday
Celebrate forests on #FSCFriday

On 30 September 2016, FSC offices, certificate holders, members, and partners will host a series of events around the world designed to celebrate and raise awareness about responsible forest management and the role that FSC plays in it.

August 26, 2016
news
A look back at the Namibian Charcoal Association Conference

FSC Africa attended the 2016 Namibian Charcoal Association Conference in early August 2016, delivering a presentation and addressing queries at the exhibition that followed.

August 26, 2016
Forest
Transparent technology: Initial field studies of TransparentForests are well-received

In 2006, FSC set out to develop a web-based platform that would integrate forest management data with independently generated maps which would be accessible to all FSC stakeholders.

August 10, 2016
news
Responsible Rio: Millions of FSC-certified products will be used at 2016 Olympics and Paralympics.

A guide to where you’ll find responsibly-sourced FSC forest products at the Rio Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games

August 5, 2016
Consultation
Centralised National Risk Assessment in Swaziland is underway.

FSC Southern Africa has commenced the process of the Centralised National Risk Assessment (CNRA) in Swaziland with Category 3.

August 5, 2016
Consultation
Call for working group members for Controlled Wood National risk assessment for Cat 1 & Cat 3 in South Africa.

During the 2011 FSC General Assembly, the FSC Membership passed Policy Motion 51 to ‘Strengthen the Controlled Wood System’. The motion includes a revision of the Controlled Wood Standard (FSC-STD-40-005), an evaluation of existing risk assessments, the phasing out of company-developed Risk Assessments and the development of FSC National Controlled Wood Risk Assessments.

August 1, 2016
New staff
FSC Africa welcomes new staff.

The FSC Africa team is growing! We are proud to welcome two new staff members.

August 1, 2016
Consultation
Status on National Forest Stewardship Standards

Progress has been made towards finalizing National Forest Stewardship Standards for a number of countries:

August 1, 2016
GA
Register now for FSC International Membership Regional Meetings

Registration is now open for FSC International Membership Regional Meetings. Members will have the opportunity to prepare for FSC General Assembly 2017 through the meetings.

July 27, 2016
news
Making progress towards HCV guidelines in the Congo Basin

A recent workshop in Brazzaville brought together a HCV Regional Working Group and 35 experts from the fields of HCVs and Intact Forest Landscapes in order to determine the way forward for developing a FSC HCV Congo Basin Regional Guideline. Outcomes included a clear timeframe for the development of a draft document, and a strategy for the increased involvement of indigenous and local communities in the process.

July 20, 2016
Pesticides
Working Group established to revise FSC Pesticides Policy

An interest-balanced working group has been established to revise the FSC Pesticides Policy. The working group comprises six stakeholders and three technical experts, who together represent both Southern and Northern perspectives of the social, environmental, and economic interests of FSC. The group will be responsible for developing a practical and realistic approach to pesticide use for FSC.

July 18, 2016
news
South African Airways and the Forest Stewardship Council join forces in world-first partnership

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is proud to announce that South African Airways (SAA) has signed a memorandum of understanding to become one of the growing number of FSC partners in Africa. This decision reinforces the airline’s commitment to sustainability and to bolstering its environmental performance. It is also aground-breaking partnership, as SAA is the first airline worldwide to partner with FSC.

July 13, 2016
Ghana course
Forest certification course in Ghana provides key lessons on the way forward in the region.

In mid-June 2016, the African Forest Forum (AFF) in partnership with the Forestry Research institute of Ghana (FORIG) and the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) organized the second short training course on Forest Certification in Accra, Ghana. The first course was aimed at the East and Southern Africa sub regions, and the second at the West and Central Africa sub regions.

July 13, 2016
Woodex2016
A look back at WoodEx 2016

From 9-11 June 2016, FSC Africa staff members attended the 4th bi-annual WoodEx exhibition, where we displayed a variety of FSC certified products ranging from packaging to wooden flooring, shutters and even lawn dressing.

July 12, 2016
CAFF
New book promotes FSC certification in Central Africa

A new book by conservationist and author Meindert Brouwer provides an interesting first-hand account of the realities of FSC certification in the Congo Basin as seen through the eyes of Congolese workers. “Central African Forests Forever” is Brouwer’s third book and covers themes ranging from forests to climate change and the empowerment of women.
We sat down with him to talk about his journey as an author and what led to his latest work.

July 11, 2016
Congo Basin
Making progress towards High Conservation Value guidelines in the Congo Basin

High Conservation Values are defined by FSC as areas that are of particularly high importance for social or environmental reasons.

June 30, 2016
Leroy Merlin
Leroy Merlin and FSC Drive Sustainability Ethos through Furniture

A cornerstone of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) ethos of protecting forests for future generations is raising consumer awareness and encouraging ethical choices.

June 27, 2016
Consultation
Open for Consultation: Chain of Custody Standard and Transaction Verification Requirements

Public consultation on the FSC-STD-40-004 V3-0 Chain of Custody Certification standard is now open.

June 27, 2016
SDG
Consultation, consultation, consultation!

The first draft of the SA National FSC standard was released for public comment in early January this year. The Draft standard was emailed to an extensive mailing list of stakeholders from all three FSC chambers and across the spectrum of growers in South Africa. A downloadable version of the draft standard can be found here.

May 24, 2016
news
Motion 12 Working Group updates

As stipulated by Policy Motion 12 of the 2014 Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) General Assembly (GA) – a motion that was supported by the Environmental, Social and Economic chambers – a chamber-balanced working group was established to address conversion related issues.

March 2, 2016
news
SENCATA’s FSC activities on track

On a recent field-visit, Annah Agasha Project Manager at the FSC Africa Regional Office in Uganda, took a closer look at the Ssese Island Nature Conservation and Tourism Association (SENCATA) project activities and discussions with SENCATA’s project managers. The main objective was to evaluate the association’s progress on its 2015 SHF project activities.

March 2, 2016
Forest Management
Open call for stakeholders and technical experts to join working group for revision of FSC Pesticides Policy

FSC is looking for stakeholders and technical experts (not exclusive to FSC membership) to join an interest-balanced working group to revise our pesticides policy. The group will identify the best feasible approach to reducing the use of chemical pesticides in FSC-certified operations, and to preventing, minimizing and mitigating the environmental and social impacts of chemical pesticide use.

March 2, 2016
Controlled Wood
FSC Controlled Wood Standard Approved and Published

The Forest Stewardship Council Board of Directors recently approved the Requirements for Sourcing FSC Controlled Wood (FSC-STD-40-005 V3-0). The standard has now been published on the FSC International website, and it is planned that it will enter into force on 1 July 2016.

March 2, 2016
Forest Management
ForCES Project Extended Until December 2016

An extension of the Forest Certification of Ecosystem Services (ForCES) project was announced during the project’s fifth annual meeting, held in Edinburgh, United Kingdom in November. Participants welcomed the extension, and during the meeting agreed an action plan for the final year of the project.

March 1, 2016
El Corte Inglés brings Forests For All Forever to its stores
El Corte Inglés brings Forests For All Forever to its stores

El Corte Inglés’ recent campaign showcased FSC’s new Forests For All Forever branding and promoted FSC-certified paper products.

March 1, 2016
news
Deforestation-free forest products from 187 million hectares globally

Below is a new paper by FSC’s Chief Advocacy Officer, John Hontelez, on the impact of deforestation, what it is and how it may be curtailed.

March 1, 2016
news
COP21: FSC and the many solutions to stop deforestation

At COP21, FSC highlighted the varied solutions and tools available to governments and businesses in fighting climate change.

March 1, 2016
news
Amended Chain of Custody Advice Note

50 Per Cent LabellingThreshold Extended Until New Chain of Custody Standard Becomes Effective

March 1, 2016
Tetra Pak
FSC Certification Enhances Tetra Pak’s Brand

Authored and first published by ISEAL Alliance.

Sourcing FSC certified paperboard helps global carton manufacturer engage with customers and mitigate risk

February 19, 2016
news
Concept Note: HCV regional working group for the Congo Basin (HCV-RWG)

The high conservation value (HCV) concept was developed by the Forest Stewardship Council at the end of the 1990s and has since been widely applied to identify and to attribute social and/or environmental values to particular landscape features.

February 17, 2016
news
New global website for lesser known timber species

This month FSC Denmark has re-launched the Lesser Known Timber Species website and database. The old database was the world leader of its kind and heavily used. The new version comes with more species, more functionality, more pictures and a renewed focus on end-use of a species. The goal is to increase the use of FSC certified lesser known timber species as a way to support forest biodiversity as well as economy.

February 9, 2016
news
Communications Manager Africa (m/f)

FSC is currently looking for a Communications Manager Africa (m/f) to be based in South Africa.
Deadline for applications: 28 February 2016.

February 3, 2016
news
FSC Africa is looking for a Sub-Regional Coordinator!

FSC is currently looking for a Sub-Regional Coordinator Southern Africa (m/f) to be based in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Deadline for applications: 21 February 2016.

January 22, 2016
news
FSC Africa is hiring!

FSC is currently looking for a HCV Officer (m/f) for the FSC Congo Basin Office.
Deadline for applications: 14 February 2016.

January 15, 2016
FSC FM Audit
Release of V1.0 South African FSC Standard for public consultation

The first draft of the National FSC Standard has been released for public consultation (see standard here). This is the first phase of a 6-month consultation period (see timetable here). The consultation period for Version 1.0 is 04 January to 29 February 2016.

January 8, 2016
news
Consultative Forum update for Trademark Standard 50-001

FSC is delighted to inform you that the first draft of the revised trademark standard FSC-STD-50-001(V2-0) is now out for public consultation, accompanied by a discussion paper containing two alternative models of making on-product claims with FSC labels.

January 5, 2016
news
Sharing and learning from ongoing FSC work in the sub-region

The FSC East Africa office recently facilitated an exchange of information forum in Kenya.

January 5, 2016
news
PPECF-COMIFAC-KfW and WWF support the activities of FSC Congo Basin Office

WWF and PPECF (Programme to Promote Certified Operations in Central Africa, implemented by COMIFAC, the Commission of Central African Forests and funded by KfW, the German Development Bank) are the main supporters for FSC activities conducted in Congo Basin.

January 5, 2016
news
FSC 2020 Aspiration: turn the tide – the voice of FSC in Congo Basin is now well-known

During 2015, FSC Congo Basin Office participated in the major events of the forestry sector in Congo Basin establishing a visible and significant presence in the region.

January 5, 2016
news
FSC looks into ILO Core Conventions

Africa’s interests are strongly represented in FSC’s efforts to develop a solution for certificate-holders to comply with workers’ rights, with Jeanette Clarke heading the southern chapter of the Social Chamber and Paul Opanga acting as coordinator of the consultative forum.

January 5, 2016
Ozwathini
Sustainability provides a forest path for small-holders

Timber, often from plantations smaller than a hectare, is the major income source in the Manguzi and Ozwathini areas in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal.

January 5, 2016
Smallholder Story
Manguzi: A backbone of timber for tribal communities

Timber, often from plantations smaller than a hectare, is the major income source in the Manguzi and Ozwathini areas in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal.

January 5, 2016
Certification course East Africa
Certification courses held in East Africa

Sustainable use of forest products from East Africa got a boost with a three-day training session in FSC Management Certification in Morogoro, Tanzania earlier this year. 

January 5, 2016
Discussion at GBC
Strong FSC presence at Green Building Convention

South Africa’s premier green building convention hosted by the Green Building Council of South Africa drew over 700 paying delegates for a week of networking, knowledge-sharing and inspiration towards a future that is full of better buildings.

January 5, 2016
news
Webinars help you grasp the detail of the Transfer Process

Is your country participating in the Transfer Process? Are you developing or transferring your national standard to Version 5 of the Principles and Criteria (See here for a detailed, clear explanation of the process)?

January 5, 2016
news
Women’s tenure rights can help drive sustainable forest use in Africa

The global forestry sector could play a powerful role in empowering rural women through land tenure, delegates at the In Good Company (IGC) forest stewardship workshop heard in Durban recently.

January 5, 2016
news
Emerging markets grasp the sustainability nettle

The world’s emerging markets, including Africa, generally have a bounty of natural resources, but the perception that these resources are being stripped and consumed wholesale by developed economies must be reconsidered.

January 5, 2016
news
Sustainability delivers solid market returns

Two newly-released studies show that a corporate commitment to environmental sustainability not only fulfils an ethical responsibility, but also delivers tangible returns to the bottom line.

January 5, 2016
news
Powerful new FSC 2015 Market Info Pack now available

Following months of development, the new FSC 2015 Market Info Pack is available for download here. The pack is a powerful business-to-business tool that represents the evolution of the state of FSC certification and a comprehensive overview of forest-product sectors and market trends.

January 5, 2016
news
And then there were 5 FSC TLAs

Please join the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in welcoming Italcotto and CMO Logistics to the growing number of organisations with FSC Trademark License Agreements (TLAs). 

January 5, 2016
news
FSC Publishes New Advice Note Regarding Pre-consumer Reclaimed Paper

FSC recently published a new advice note within the FSC Directive on Chain of Custody Certification (FSC-DIR-40-004).

January 5, 2016
news
Intact Forest Landscape and FLEGT Grids of legality within FSC National Standards Development Process

Motion 65 in Congo Basin will be addressed within the implementation of a project called the HCV (High Conservation Values) Congo Basin Roadmap (Roadmap can be downloaded here).

January 4, 2016
news
2050 Beacon: a new forest paradigm realised - HCV Congo Basin roadmap

After two rounds of consultations and following feedback from key stakeholders (forest managers, Greenpeace, WWF, FSC members, international experts and PPECF Programme managers), a roadmap to define the modalities of identification, monitoring and management of High Conservation Value (HCV) areas in Congo Basin forests was finalised in July.

January 4, 2016
Democratic Republic of Congo SDG
Four meetings and some interesting developments Democratic Republic of Congo (Kinshasa)

The Standard Development Group of Democratic Republic of Congo (see image) has been strengthened by the efforts of the PSU Officer for Congo Basin over the last eight months.

January 4, 2016
Gabon SDG
Examination of IGIs completed

In Gabon, the Standard Development Group (see image) has completed the examination of the International Generic Indicators after four working sessions, and is currently working on the first draft.

January 4, 2016
Republic of Congo SDG
Republic of Congo (Brazzaville): Draft 0 almost ready to be sent out for public consultation and field-testing early in 2016

The Congolese Standard Development Group met five times in 2015 and is now reviewing Draft 0 of the new National Standards, which will be sent out for public consultation in the coming weeks.

January 4, 2016
Cameroon SDG
A draft 0 of the National Forest Stewardship Standard to be launched before the end of 2015

The Cameroonian Standard Development Group (see image) has held four technical working sessions this year to work on transfer of International generic Indicators to National Standard for Cameroonian Standards.

January 4, 2016
Tanzania SDG
Update on the Transfer of the Tanzania National Forest Stewardship Standard

Tanzania began developing a new standard based on the New Principles and Criteria after the Standard Development Group (SDG) was constituted in a meeting held on 17th February.

January 4, 2016
news
Update on the transfer of the South African National FSC Standard

In 2013 the FSC released the revised Principles and Criteria, followed in 2014 by a set of International Generic Indicators (IGIs).

January 4, 2016
What does it really mean to be sustainable?
What does it really mean to be sustainable?

With the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals highlighted this month, Director General Kim Carstensen explains why all claims to ‘sustainability’ should not be considered equally…

December 14, 2015
What is the Future of Forest Certification?
What is the Future of Forest Certification?

FSC director Kim Carstensen explains that achieving sustainable forest management requires understanding that the forest provides far more than the value of its timber

December 14, 2015
Ozwathini
Ozwathini - A backbone of timber for tribal communities

Timber, often from plantations smaller than a hectare, is the major income source in the Manguzi and Ozwathini areas in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal.

December 14, 2015
Smallholder Story
Manguzi - A backbone of timber for tribal communities

Timber, often from plantations smaller than a hectare, is the major income source in the Manguzi and Ozwathini areas in South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal.

December 14, 2015
Forest with world map
Business must support climate change mitigation, says FSC

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) calls on business to support the global efforts to limit climate change through new initiatives such as those taken by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD).

December 14, 2015
Plantation
Why Does FSC Support Forest Plantations?

FSC Director Kim Carstensen believes responsibly run forest plantations can play a huge role in biodiversity, sustainability and climate change mitigation, which is why many warrant FSC certification.

December 11, 2015
news
Forest Stewardship Council Re-Associates with Danzer Group

BONN, Germany (14 August 2014) – The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) announced today that it decided to lift the disassociation from the Danzer Group, after independent verification confirmed that the company had met the criteria required by FSC.

August 12, 2014
news
TROPICAL FORESTS MEETING WITH CONGO BASIN COMPANIES

FSC Certification of Tropical Forests, Markets and Marketing

February 25, 2014
news
PRESS RELEASE "Strengthening services: revision of the Annual Administration Fee policy"

From January 1st 2014 FSC will introduce a revised Annual Administration Fee Policy (FSC-POL-20-005 V2) for all certified companies within the FSC system. The Annual Administration Fee (AAF) was established to support FSC’s core functions and services for, the Certificate Holders (CH), and has not been adjusted since 2008.

October 1, 2013
Mathieu Auger-Schwartzenberg, new FSC's Sub Regional Coordinator for Congo Basin
Mathieu Auger-Schwartzenberg, appointed as FSC's Sub Regional Coordinator for Congo Basin

From October 1st 2013, Mathieu Auger-Schwartzenberg is appointed as FSC’s Sub Regional Coordinator for Congo Basin. Mathieu will be based in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

September 30, 2013
news
Delegation of FSC visits the Republic of Congo

On the invitation of the His Excellency Henri Djombo, Minister of Forestry and Sustainable Development of the Republic of Congo, an FSC delegation led by FSC’s Director General Kim Carstensen and including FSCs Regional Director for Africa, Chris Burchmore and the FSC Global Network Director, Gemma Boetekees, visited stakeholders in The Republic of Congo from 17 to 20 July 2013. The visit by FSC covered Brazzaville and Pokola, centre of the FSC certified forest concessions of Congolaise Industrie de Bois (CIB) of OLAM.

July 23, 2013
news
FSC is pleased to announce the launch of a dedicated website for the Congo Basin.

FSC’s current global strategy includes several objectives related to promoting responsible forest management in natural forests in the tropics.

July 17, 2013
news
Appointment of the FSC African Director

FSC international is very pleased to announce that Chris Burchmore has been appointed as FSC’s Regional Director for Africa, starting on the 1st of June. He will establish the Regional Office for Africa in South Africa, and will coordinate the establishment of an East Africa Coordinator and a Congo Basin Coordinator, who will both be part of the African Regional Office. His mission will be to lead and coordinate the establishment and implementation of a FSC African Regional Strategy, in close cooperation with FSC Network Partners in Africa and FSC International.

July 10, 2013
FSC Certified products from Wijma Camerouns sawmill
Maintaining a watchful eye

FSC certification has proved to be a powerful tool that has advanced the application of strict monitoring standards for forest management in tropical Africa.

July 10, 2013
rougier
Rougier receives FSC certification for three licenses in Cameroon

Rougier is a major stakeholder among certified tropical timber companies in Africa, and member of FSC France. On 25 March 2013, Rougier announced FSC certification of three concessions in Cameroon’s Mbang Forest, operated by its subsidiary Société Forestière et Industrielle de la Doumé (SFID).

July 9, 2013
Kikole school kids at soundfair
Making music responsibly - world’s first FSC certified woodwind goes on sale

In January 2011, the world’s first FSC certified woodwind instrument was put on sale, sourced from certified forests in Tanzania.

July 9, 2013
news
FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL DISASSOCIATES FROM THE DANZER GROUP

Decision due to reputational risks for FSC linked to stakeholder disputes in the Democratic Republic of Congo

July 9, 2013
news
FSC and PEFC jointly call for rejection of proposal for ISO Chain of Custody Standard for certified forest products

FSC and PEFC, the two organisations together accounting for some 98% of the world’s certified forests and chain of custody certificates, called upon members of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) to not support a proposal for an ISO standard to be developed for certified forest products as it stands.

July 9, 2013
Amur Tiger
Protecting endangered Tigers in the Taiga

Old growth forests, identified as high conservation values through FSC certification, protect habitat for the endangered Amur tiger in the Russian Far East

June 24, 2013
Working for wildlife
Working for wildlife

FSC certification brings better wildlife management in Gabon’s forest concessions.

June 24, 2013
Certification brings the market to the mountains
Certification brings the market to the mountains

FSC certification of community forests helps access international markets for non-timber forest products and leads to better forest management.

June 24, 2013

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