FSC - CB side meeting
On Monday, Greenpeace released Holding the Line with FSC: Recommendations and progress to date on Certification Body and FSC performance following a critical analysis of a range of ‘controversial certificates’.
The report addresses performance issues at an operational level within FSC, many of which are directly related to the need for greater resources and financial stability.
The findings of the Greenpeace report are critical, but presented in a constructive light. The contributors and researchers have determined that FSC has completed or is in the process of implementing actions that are in line with many of the recommendations from Greenpeace to further strengthen the FSC system.
The release of the report coincided with the side meeting Too Close for Comfort? – Certification bodies and their lack of performance, which was organized by Greenpeace and FERN. Presentations from representatives of Greenpeace, FERN, TFT and Rainforest Alliance brought diverse perspectives into the discussion about how to improve FSC certification bodies.
Those in attendance heard the key thematic challenges as set forth by the report, but also heard positive feedback from Greenpeace that FSC has been responsive and made good progress over the last two years. CBs in attendance were generally in agreement with the recommendations set forth, and comments at the end of the presentation were focused on moving forward to strengthen the system.
FSC looks forward to continuing a productive, open and constructive dialogue with Greenpeace and other NGOs.
