Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

FSC has a broad view on sustainability with social, economic and ecological component. This scheme is the only one with global support from international development organizations and environmental organizations. On the Dutch market, the share of FSC timber is growing. Currently, it is  8%.


FSC is a worldwide, independent organization and nonprofit. This association was founded in 1993 by very diverse parties, such as nature and environmental organizations, forest owners, human rights organizations, representatives of local communities, and progressive timber merchants. FSC has a social, economic and ecological "chamber", where you can join and thus can have a say in new developments.

FSC has 10 international principles that can be translated at national or regional level into the local context. This can be done by a national working group or by the certifying institute. The advantage of a national working group is that there a broad national debate will be started about sustainability in the forestry sector and that all stakeholders have a voice in determining the regulations.

The 10 FSC principles of good forest management:

  1. Forest management must respect the national laws and international agreements and conventions, as well as the principles and criteria of FSC.
  2. The use and ownership of the forest are recorded and legal.
  3. The rights and user rights of indigenous peoples are recognized and respected.
  4. Forest management is aimed at maintaining or improving the long-term well-being of forest workers and local communities in social and economic terms.
  5. The forest products and services must be used efficiently, so that the economic, ecological and social benefits are secured.
  6. The ecological functions and biodiversity of the forest are protected.
  7. There is a clear business plan in writing, setting out extensive objectives and resources.
  8. The social, economic and environmental impacts of the activities in the forest are checked regularly.
  9. Forests with high nature value must be retained  and their value  estimated.
  10. Plantations should complement natural forests, but should not replace natural forests and must comply with principles 1 t / m 9.

 

 

Forest Stewardship Council
WWF-Huianas website