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Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™)

Discover our FSC services:

wood planks
Chain of Custody Certification - FSC

Enhance your market access, build your brand and empower customers to support the world’s forests.

lumber
Controlled Wood Certification - FSC

Boost your ability to trade forest products with controlled wood claims which are demanded by FSC-certified buyers.

FSCbanner
Forest Management Certification - FSC

Assure responsible forestry to your buyers and investors.

construction project
Project Certification - FSC

Certify your building project and communicate the responsible origin of timber used for construction.

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What is FSC?

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification helps you to meet market demands, enhance your reputation and support the world's forests. FSC certification ensures timber product origins are responsible.

Founded in 1993 as a global membership-based NGO, FSC promotes responsible forest management through eco-labelling. Today, FSC certification is widely regarded as the gold standard for responsible forest management.

For business-to-business organisations to endorse and sell FSC-marked certified products, certification is mandatory. The FSC logo and labels create a robust connection between well-managed forests and end consumers, offering market incentives for certified forest operations and companies.

Preferred by Nature is an accredited FSC certification body (FSC™ A000535) for Forest Management, Chain of Custody, Controlled Wood, Project Certification and Ecosystem Procedures. Learn more about our accreditation scope

>> Access the FSC Database to check the certification status of products
>> Learn how the FSC system works

Four reasons FSC is unique

  1. NGO support: FSC stands as the sole international forest certification scheme endorsed by major NGOs like WWF, cementing its "street credibility" and real-world impact.
  2. Stakeholder engagement: FSC organises itself into three chambers - social, economic and environmental - ensuring equitable influence at all decision-making levels.
  3. Globally aligned: FSC certification adheres to global standards and requirements. Certified forests span around 80 countries worldwide.
  4. Transparency: FSC is an international membership organisation guided by participation, democracy, equity and transparency principles.

Certification options

FSC Forest Management certification

For forest operators committed to responsible forestry, FSC Forest Management certification verifies environmentally responsible, socially beneficial, and economically viable forest management.

>> Learn more about the Forest Management certification
>> Download our info sheet 

 

FSC Chain of Custody certification

Manufacturers using forest-based materials can achieve FSC Chain of Custody certification, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable sourcing, ensuring processes are in place to produce and trade FSC-certified products. FSC Chain of Custody certification enables the use of the globally recognised FSC label on products, signifying support for responsible forestry.

>> Learn more about the Chain of Custody certification
>> Download our info sheet

 

FSC Project certification

Project certification underscores commitment to forest-friendly practices, ensuring the use of forest-based materials meeting FSC standards in your project. Project certification can apply to all or selected projects.

>> Learn more about the Project certification

 

FSC Forest Management Consultations

See scheduled FSC Forest Management assessments and stakeholder consultations here

 

FSC Controlled Wood certification

FSC controlled wood, from acceptable sources, can be mixed with FSC-certified material in products with the FSC Mix label, reducing the risk of forest products from unacceptable sources, including illegally harvested wood, violations of human rights, forest conversion to non-forest use, and more. There are two types of Controlled Wood certification: Forest Certification and Chain of Custody Certification.

>> Learn more about FSC Controlled Wood

 

FSC Control Wood Consultations

Find scheduled FSC Control Wood assessments here.

 

The FSC label & trademark

The FSC "check tree" label, recognised by 46% of consumers worldwide, signifies responsible forestry and sustainable sourcing from forests to consumers.

To ensure accurate use of FSC trademarks, certificate holders must submit trademark use requests for compliance verification, authorised exclusively by a Trademark Agent.

The Preferred by Nature Trademark Portal streamlines the trademark request process for FSC certificate holders, making it simple to submit requests and track progress.

>> Access our Trademark Portal
>> Browse our FSC Marketing Resources

Complaints and resolutions

In the event of complaints about our certification services or clients, we follow our Dispute Resolution Policy and may consult our Impartiality Committee in cases questioning Preferred by Nature’s impartiality.

FSC Standards

These standards and policies apply universally, irrespective of the type of FSC certificate you possess. The specifics of your certification’s scope dictate which FSC standards and policies are applicable to your company. Depending on the type of FSC certificate you hold, there may be additional, more specialised documents that you should also familiarise yourself with.

 

FSC Principles and Criteria

The FSC Principles and Criteria is a key document in the FSC certification system. These principles and criteria have global applicability and local adaptability through the FSC International Generic Indicators.

In the FSC System, policies, standards, and procedures undergo a comprehensive and transparent development, review, and revision process. Stay updated on the progress.

>> Explore FSC Connect for a complete list of documents

 

FSC Trademark Standard

As a certificate holder, you need to follow the specific requirements for using all trademarks. These are described in the FSC Trademark Standard for certificate holders.

 

Standard Consultations

FSC develops the core FSC standards, such as the global FSC Principles & Criteria. We advise you to check the FSC Consultation Platform for open consultations on key global FSC standards.

Documents

Template

FSC CW template
FSC Controlled Wood FSC
FSC Controlled Wood Due Diligence System Summary Template
Published by 

Template for use by clients certified or being certified to FSC-STD-40-005. Org...

Template for use by clients certified or being certified to FSC-STD-40-005. Org...

Sample Outsourcing Agreement for Non-FSC-certified Contactors
FSC
Outsourcing agreement template for non-FSC certified contractors
Published by 

This is the Word format of the outsourcing agreement in our ‘Guide to outsourci...

This is the Word format of the outsourcing agreement in our ‘Guide to outsourci...

Procedure

FSC
FSC Management System for Trademark Use
Published by 

You can use this as a generic example of FSC trademark use management system. ...

You can use this as a generic example of FSC trademark use management system. ...

FSC
FSC Brands Intercompany Labeling Agreement
Published by 

Sample FSC labeling procedure agreement between buyer and producer

Sample FSC labeling procedure agreement between buyer and producer

Guideline

Guide to outsourcing of FSC production activities
FSC
Guide on outsourcing of FSC activities
Published by 

Guidance for FSC certificate holders on requirements pertaining to outsourcing ...

Guidance for FSC certificate holders on requirements pertaining to outsourcing ...

FSC darba pamatprasības - pašnovērtējuma forma
FSC
FSC core labour requirements - Self assessment
Published by 

This document offers guidance on how organisations can fulfill the requirements...

This document offers guidance on how organisations can fulfill the requirements...

使用FFAF标志的FSC指导文件
FSC
Using the FFAF marks FSC guidance document
Published by 

FSC商标快速指南
FSC
FSC Trademark Quick Guide
Published by 

The trademark quick guide is developed based on the FSC Trademark Standard 50-0...

The trademark quick guide is developed based on the FSC Trademark Standard 50-0...

FSC商标指南
FSC
FSC Trademark Guide
Published by 

This guide outlines the key requirements for using the FSC logo, eco-label, bra...

This guide outlines the key requirements for using the FSC logo, eco-label, bra...

Report

RAPORT Z CERTYFIKACJI FSC
FSC
Certification schemes report FSC
Published by 

This evaluation aims to assess how the FSC forest certification system meets fu...

This evaluation aims to assess how the FSC forest certification system meets fu...

Scheme policies

FSC AAF
FSC
FSC Annual Administration Fee
Published by 

FSC-POL-20-005 V3-4This document is revised annually and sets out the FSC Annua...

FSC-POL-20-005 V3-4This document is revised annually and sets out the FSC Annua...

Standard

Standard dot. znaków towarowych FSC - Załącznik 1
FSC
FSC Trademark Standard Annex 1
Published by 

Describes the FSC trademark registrations by country and mark. Helps you to fin...

Describes the FSC trademark registrations by country and mark. Helps you to fin...

FSC trademark
FSC
FSC Trademark Standard
Published by 

FSC-STD-50-001 V2-1 Sets out the requirements for off-product and on-product u...

FSC-STD-50-001 V2-1 Sets out the requirements for off-product and on-product u...

Videos

No videos currently available. Visit our Knowledge Hub to explore other helpful content.

Get in contact with us

Our experts are ready to support you on your sustainability journey.

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Gain more insights into the programme! 
Join our upcoming courses.

Event title Event type Language Location Dates Status
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 09 -
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course Español Medellín, Colombia 18 -
Curso Experto FSC Cadena de Custodia Expert course Español Medellín, Colombia 18 -
Event title Event type Language Location Dates Status
Introduction to key aspects of the FSC and PEFC CoC certifications Seminar Danish Hørning, Denmark 30 - Completed
EUDR Ready: Navigating FSC & PEFC standards for a deforestation-free supply chain Webinar Estonian Online 17 - Completed
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Bridging challenges and solutions Seminar Czech Brno, Czechia 10 - Completed
FSC og PEFC sporbarhedscertificering (Chain of Custody - CoC) Seminar Danish Hørning, Denmark 28 - Completed
Meeting EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) requirements for the coffee sector Seminar English Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 15 - Completed
Navigating the EUDR with practical solutions for Indonesia’s supply chain Webinar Bahasa Indonesia Online 30 - Completed
FSC Controlled Wood Expert Course Expert course English Jurmala, Latvia 27 - Completed
EUDR: Get ready with our overview, updates and solutions Webinar Japanese Online 17 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course English Minnesota, USA 29 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course Spanish Argentina 27 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course Spanish Argentina 21 - Completed
EU Deforestation Regulation: Unpacking the latest updates and solutions Webinar Chinese Simplified Online 08 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Montreal, Canada 25 - Completed
EUDR: Understanding implications for US companies Webinar English Online 13 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course English Toronto, Canada 12 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course Chinese Simplified China 05 - Completed
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Implications for the agricultural sector Webinar Spanish Online 20 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Berlin, Germany 19 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course English Berlin, Germany 30 - Completed
Implications of the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) for the forestry sector Webinar Spanish Online 17 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course English Bangalore, India 12 - Completed
FSC Chain of Custody Expert Course Expert course English Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA 28 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Jurmala, Latvia 20 - Completed
Sustainability in Practice: EUDR & Carbon Footprint Management Seminar Estonian Tallinn, Estonia 16 - Completed
Sustainability in Practice - EUDR & Carbon Footprint Management Seminar Latvian Rīga, Latvia 15 - Completed
Sustainability in Practice - EUDR & Carbon Footprint Management Seminar Lithuanian Vilnius, Lithuania 13 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Beijing, China 06 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Beijing, China 06 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course Spanish Concepción, Chile 02 - Completed
FSC Controlled Wood Expert Course Expert course English Jurmala, Latvia 26 - Completed
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Business implications and impact Webinar Chinese Simplified Online 22 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course Spanish Medellín, Colombia 14 - Completed
EUDR & the Future of Forest-risk Commodities Procurement Seminar, Webinar Japanese Tokyo, Japan 12 - Completed
FSC Controlled Wood Expert Course Expert course English Online 05 - Completed
FSC Forest Management Expert Course Expert course English Jurmala, Latvia 29 - Completed
How Scientific Testing can support companies to comply with Due Diligence requirements of the EUDR? Webinar English Online 28 - Completed
How Scientific Testing can support the enforcement of the EUDR? Webinar English Online 21 - Completed
EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): Business implications and compliance Seminar Chinese Simplified Shanghai, China 20 - Completed
Complying with the new EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR): A practical workshop for timber businesses Seminar Vietnamese Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam 13 - Completed
EUDR and FSC Policy to Address Conversion & Remedy Framework – What will it mean for Malaysian companies? Seminar English Sabah, Malaysia 09 - Completed
EUDR and FSC Policy to Address Conversion & Remedy Framework – What will it mean for Malaysian companies? Seminar English Sarawak, Malaysia 08 - Completed
EUDR and FSC Policy to Address Conversion & Remedy Framework – What will it mean for Malaysian companies? Seminar English Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 06 - Completed
Informationsdag FSC og PEFC sporbarhedscertificering Seminar Danish Denmark Completed

Other Forestry Certification Schemes

Preferred by Nature Certification
Preferred by Nature Certification

Unlock the next level of sustainability excellence with this all-inclusive certification.

forest - Switzerland
Forest & farm certification
Forest & farm manager - Preferred by Nature Certification

Elevate forestry and agriculture sustainability with efficient full or add-on options.

FSC
Forest Stewardship Council™ (FSC™)

Gaining FSC certification helps you meet market demands, enhance your reputation and support the world's forests.

wood planks
FSC Chain of Custody
Chain of Custody Certification - FSC

Enhance your market access, build your brand and empower customers to support the world’s forests.

FSC Controlled Wood
Controlled Wood Certification - FSC

Boost your ability to trade forest products with controlled wood claims which are demanded by FSC-certified buyers.

FSCbanner
FSC Forest Management
Forest Management Certification - FSC

Assure responsible forestry to your buyers and investors.

construction project
FSC Project Certification
Project Certification - FSC

Certify your building project and communicate the responsible origin of timber used for construction.

LegalSource
LegalSource

Whether you operate at forest level or as an operator in a supply chain, demonstrate your ability to exclude illegal…

PEFC
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC)

Get PEFC certified to show your commitment to managing forests in line with environmental, social and economic…

PEFC Chain of Custody Certification
PEFC Chain of Custody
Chain of Custody Certification - PEFC

Obtain PEFC Chain of Custody certification to expand your market access and forward the PEFC claims and labels to your…

PEFC Forest Management Certification
PEFC Forest Management
Forest Management Certification - PEFC

Gain PEFC certification to provide assurance of your responsible forest management practices.

Responsible Biomass Programme
Responsible Biomass Programme

Verify your responsible biomass compliance with legal requirements.

logs
SmartLogging
SmartLogging

Ensuring responsible management of forest resources while balancing environmental, economic and social needs.

Sustainable Biomass Program-SBP
Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP)

Obtain SBP certification for assurance that your woody biomass is sourced both legally and sustainably.

Sustainable Forestry Initiative-SFI
Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)

Supporting forest stakeholders in adopting best practices and improving operations.

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