What is FSC Certification®?

The Forest Stewardship Council® FSC® is an international organization that promotes responsible management of the world’s forests through its 10 FSC Principles and associated FSC Criteria. Responsible Forest Management provides a way of using trees and non-timber forest products to meet people's ever-increasing need for lumber, paper and other products without degrading forest ecosystems.

What is Responsible Forest Management? The forest is well maintained under FSC certification guidelines to assure it remains healthy and productive. Trees are selected from FSC forests so as to not cause undue damage to the ecosystem. The effect foresting has on the land is mitigated to the greatest degree possible to avoid damage to the ecosystem. Harvested areas are replanted and maintained to keep the forest and surrounding lands healthy, vibrant and productive.

10 FSC Principles Create the “Gold Standard” of Certification Programs FSC Principles go beyond just managing the land responsibly. They take a holistic approach regarding how land management will affect the whole community. This is why they are endorsed by many major environmental groups and are considered the “Gold Standard” for certification.

10 FSC Principles The Difference Makers Principle 1. Compliance with all applicable laws and international treaties Principle 2. Demonstrated and uncontested, clearly defined, long–term land tenure and use rights Principle 3. Recognition & respect of indigenous peoples' rights Principle 4. Maintenance or enhancement of long-term social and economic well-being of forest workers and local communities and respect of worker’s rights in compliance with International Labor Organization (ILO) conventions Principle 5. Equitable use and sharing of benefits derived from the forest

10 FSC Principles The Difference Makers Principle 6. Reduction of environmental impact of logging activities and maintenance of the ecological functions and integrity of the forest Principle 7. Appropriate and continuously updated management plan Principle 8. Appropriate monitoring and assessment activities to assess the condition of the forest, management activities and their social and environmental impacts Principle 9. Maintenance of High Conservation Value Forests (HCVFs) defined as environmental and social values that are considered to be of outstanding significance or critical importance Principle 10. In addition to compliance with all of the above, plantations must contribute to reduce the pressures on and promote the restoration and conservation of natural forests.