Our vision

The world’s forests meet the social, ecological, and economic rights and needs of the present generation without compromising those of future generations.

Our mission

The Forest Stewardship Council shall promote environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial, and economically viable management of the world's forests.

About FSC

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a nongovernmental, non-profit organization that promotes the responsible management of the world’s forests. Established in 1993 as a response to concerns over global deforestation, FSC is a membership organization with a governance structure based on participation, democracy, equity and transparency. It is a unique forum where stakeholders from around the world meet and through strong multi-stakeholder processes define essential social and environmental criteria for forest management.

FSC has defined 10 principles and associated criteria that describe how forests have to be managed to meet the social, economic, ecological, cultural and spiritual needs of present and future generations. These fundamental principles are realized in forests worldwide through FSC certification. To earn FSC certification and the right to use the FSC label, an organization must conform to all applicable FSC requirements. Managing forests in accordance with FSC Principles and Criteria means following high social and environmental guidelines, and often requires managers to adapt their management and operations. This is how FSC has a direct and permanent positive impact on the world’s forests and the people living from, in, and around the forest.

Through programs, services and solutions that support FSC certification, the Forest Stewardship Council empowers organizations, businesses and communities to support responsible forest management. FSC uses certification to engage the market, driving recognition of the value of forests to improve social and environmental practices in forests worldwide. FSC’s core activities are to provide internationally recognized standard setting, trademark assurance and accreditation services for companies, organizations and communities interested in responsible forestry.

In 2010, over 135 million hectares of forest are FSC certified in over 80 countries around the world. The FSC logo and on-product labels have become the globally trusted mark for businesses and consumers looking for forest products that benefit people, the environment and that also provide ongoing business value. Find more information at www.fsc.org.