What is FSC®?
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is the world’s most trusted sustainable forest management solution.
We are a non-profit membership organization that certifies over 200 million hectares of forest worldwide. FSC’s responsible forestry standard, linked to a strict chain of custody certification, is a proven nature-based solution to tackle today’s climate and biodiversity challenges. That is why we are trusted by environmental groups, NGOs, consumers, and businesses alike.
FSC’s "check-tree" label, found on thousands of products worldwide, verifies sustainable sourcing from forest to consumer. By choosing and supporting FSC you are helping to protect the future of forests and the communities who depend on them.
Elston Dzus
How We Protect Forests
In 1994, FSC pioneered forest certification as a way to responsibly manage our world’s forest. With support from experts in the environmental, economic and social spheres, FSC developed ten principles for responsible forest management that any forest operation must follow in order to receive our certification. These requirements ensure that the forest is being managed in a way that preserves biological diversity, upholds Indigenous Peoples’ rights, benefits the lives of local people and workers, and is economically viable.
In 2026, after 8 years of rigorous consultation, FSC US launched an updated national forest management standard (FFS Version 2.0) that addresses some of the most pressing issues facing US forests. The updated standard complements regional, national, and local forest initiatives—from state-level climate resilience strategies to federal efforts addressing wildfire risk, biodiversity loss, and sustainable rural economies. For example, new regional requirements for salvage harvesting on the Pacific Coast following catastrophic natural disasters ensure that post-disaster responses protect ecological integrity rather than exacerbate damage. FSC certification under FSS Version 2.0 works alongside conservation easements, state forestry programs, Tribal forest initiatives, and private-sector sustainability commitments, reinforcing a coherent, multi-level approach to forest protection.
Supply Chain Integrity
From forest to store, we are committed to ensuring credible, accurate and transparent supply chains.
Over 50,000 companies worldwide have FSC’s chain of custody (CoC) certification. FSC supports them with industry leading tools - to ensure certified and non-certified materials are separated throughout the supply chain - including the adoption and deployment of new technology, including blockchain, and through initiatives to find and address inaccurate claims.
As CoC certification evolves, FSC is steadfastly committed to ensuring the ongoing integrity of supply chains.
Look For The Logo
Seen on thousands of product labels around the world, the FSC ‘check-tree’ logo provides an assurance that the wood and paper products you purchase come from responsible sources and have been verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards.
So the next time you're out shopping be sure to look for the logo and buy FSC-certified products.
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