What is an FSC Certification?

When buying from brands with paper packaging, you might have seen the "FSC-Certified" stamp.

‍

It’s an environmental and social certification managed by the Forest Stewardship Council, a global organization that promotes responsible forest management.

‍

The need for better forest management

‍

Forests house millions of species and help mitigate climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

‍

They give us resources like wood and rubber for everyday products. But lately, deforestation has outpaced forest regeneration.

‍

By managing our forests responsibly, we can ensure an endless supply of these products. Certifications such as FSC are enabling that by promoting responsible forestry practices.

‍

{{cta-join2}}

‍

What is an FSC certification?

‍

FSC certification sets strict standards for paper products, ensuring they are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

‍

Products with an FSC-certified label undergo a rigorous verification process known as the chain of custody. This process tracks the wood from the forest to the manufacturer, merchant, and finally, the printer, if applicable.

‍

Independent, third-party auditors verify that the materials are sourced from sustainably managed forests and ensure that the final product reaches the consumer without other materials getting accidentally mixed in.

‍

As of 2022, FSC has:

• 36.4 million acres certified in the U.S.
• 160.3 million acres certified in the U.S. and Canada
• 2,238 Chain-of-Custody certificates in the U.S.
• 3,222 companies Chain-of-Custody certified in the U.S.
• 5,667 sites certified in the U.S.

‍

FSC-certified paper is often confused with recycled paper. While recycled paper is made from pre- or post-consumer recycled materials, FSC-certified paper is composed of virgin tree fibers sourced from a well-managed forest.

‍

Types of FSC certification

‍

FSC certification applies to wood and wood-based products and has three categories:

• FSC 100%: These are products that are made from wood, paper, and/or other wood-based materials that come completely from FSC-certified forests.
• FSC Recycled: These are products that are made from wood, paper, and/or other wood-based materials that come from recycled or reclaimed (reused) material.
• FSC Mix: These are products that are made with a combination of FSC virgin fiber, and/or recycled materials with controlled virgin fiber.

‍

FSC-certified products are not just restricted to paper packaging. You can find footwear, furniture, tires, and even clothing that is FSC certified. Check out FSC-certified products here.

‍