Gerrit's dedication to sustainable forestry spanned decades. Before joining the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®), he played a pivotal role in securing the first mainstream FSC certificate in South Africa and Africa in 1997 as part of the SAFCOL -South African Forestry Company SOC Limited team. Gerrit was widely recognized as a world-wide expert in forest and Chain-of-Custody certification with extensive certification experience including managing the SGS global forest certification programme for more than 13 years.
A true forester at heart, his passion for the cause was evident in everything he did.
Just four months ago, Gerrit embarked on a new chapter as the FSC Lead for Climate and Ecosystem Services: Africa. He envisioned leveraging his extensive experience in forest management and certification to promote nature-based solutions to combat environmental challenges such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
Gerrit's legacy extends far beyond his titles.
He was instrumental in developing the Continuous Improvement process, spearheaded numerous FSC training programmes, and was renowned for his in-depth knowledge of FSC Africa. Colleagues remember him as a kind and patient mentor, always willing to share his wisdom and expertise. His calm demeanor, clear communication style, and unwavering support left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him.
Peter Alele, Regional Director, Africa:
“After his immense contribution to FSC work in his previous roles, we took a decision to bring Gerrit into the team in 2023. We hoped that the team would benefit from his knowledge and mentorship in addition to helping develop the climate & ecosystems portfolio in Africa. Gerrit’s wisdom, humility and gentle nature stood out and impacted the team in his short time with us. We will miss him dearly.”
Gertrude Ogwok, Network Development Manager, Africa:
" Gerrit defied first impressions. His first words reveal a calm, articulate gentleman with a deep well of FSC knowledge. He would patiently explain anything, from the ground up, and always made time to talk - even when I did not know he was struggling. FSC will never be the same without his expertise and kindness. He will be deeply missed at FSC."
Richard Fergusson, Sub Regional Coordinator, Southern Africa:
Gerrit was a legendary name I knew long before I met him. Upon our first encounter, discussing FSC Africa matters, it became clear: he was absolutely passionate about forest management, deeply knowledgeable, and a wonderful human being. His extensive African industry experience, amazing memory, and willingness to answer our questions were hugely valuable – we will miss that dearly.
Joining FSC in December 2023, we embarked on new journeys in the realm of Climate and Ecosystem Services (C&ES) – new territory for him and for most of us. His ability to grasp past efforts, assess African needs, and strategize success demonstrated his experience and practicality. We began discussions with potential ES clients, with Gerrit as the technical lead, his expertise readily available.
Gerard Busse, Marketing & Communications Manager, Southern Africa:
I had the privilege of both working with Gerrit when he was a technical consultant to FSC Southern Africa and also trained by him when I attended an FSC Chain-of-Custody Auditors course. I remember his technical prowess when doing presentations and webinars with him and authoring articles together, and really enjoyed his passion, professionalism, and wealth of experience when attending the auditor course which he delivered as the trainer. He was also a wonderful red wine drinking companion!
Annah Agasha, Sub Regional Coordinator, Eastern Africa:
" On 15 October 2018 during a light moment after long day FSC technical working Group meeting, Gerrit made this quote to a colleague while chatting: “Indeed, as we say in South Africa, “my brother from another mother”. His statement confirmed to me what Gerrit was: sociable, kind, friendly and treating others well as he would his brothers and sisters. I will miss this attribute of him and May his soul rest in eternal peace."
Israel Bionyi, Communications Manager, Africa:
"Gerrit's passing leaves a void in our team. His ability to translate complex issues into clear language made him a valuable asset. We will continue to honour his memory by carrying forward his work on the upcoming International Day of the Environment event."
Gerrit's absence leaves a profound hole in the FSC Africa community. His dedication, expertise, and kindness will be deeply missed. We offer our heartfelt condolences to his wife, family, and loved ones.
May he rest in peace.