FSC – The certificate for responsible forest management

Q: What types of FSC labels are there?

There are three main labels: FSC 100% (made entirely from FSC-certified forests), FSC Mix (combination of certified, recycled and controlled wood) and FSC Recycled (made entirely from recycled material). These labels provide information about the exact material composition.

Definition: The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is an international certification system that sets global standards for ecologically, socially and economically responsible forest management. The FSC seal guarantees the sustainable origin of wood products and enables consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.

The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a globally recognized certification system for responsible forest management. It ensures that wood comes from ecologically, socially and economically sustainable sources – a point of reference for consumers, retailers and tradespeople who value credibly certified products.

The FSC logo as a sign of responsible forest management

FSC: Responsibly managed forests

The FSC seal guarantees that forests are managed according to strict ecological and social standards. These include biodiversity, long-term forest health and fair working conditions. Companies have their supply chains regularly audited to ensure transparent traceability. This means that only products from responsible sources reach the market. This provides consumers with clear and trustworthy guidance when purchasing sustainable wood products.

How does FSC certification work?

The FSC works with a multi-stage certification system. Forest certification assesses sustainable forest management, while the chain of custody certification controls the supply chain from the forest to the finished product. The criteria are based on a transparent development process in which environmental organizations, social groups and economic players are involved. This interaction ensures a high level of credibility and international recognition of the standard. In addition, the FSC is continuously developed to take account of new ecological and social challenges.

The chain of custody (product chain) ensures the traceability of FSC wood

FSC label: The three labels at a glance

The FSC distinguishes between three central labels that provide consumers with quick orientation: FSC 100% indicates that a product comes entirely from FSC-certified forests. FSC Mix combines material from certified forestry, recycled sources and controlled sources. FSC Recycled indicates products that consist entirely of recycled material. This clear subdivision makes purchasing decisions easier and helps to support sustainable product lines in a targeted manner.

FSC in use: Sustainable products at Betterwood

FSC-certified wood is particularly popular for outdoor use, in professional terrace construction and in furniture construction with durable teak panels. Betterwood only stocks FSC 100%-certified products, guaranteeing that all wood comes from responsibly managed forests. In addition Betterwood comprehensive advice. Anyone who chooses sustainable materials for their projects will find high-quality products here that combine consistent ecological standards and high quality.

Sources:
FSCGermany – What is FSC?,
FSCGermany – Labeling,
Holz vom Fach – Glossary FSC,
Wikipedia – Forest Stewardship Council

Frequently asked questions about the FSC

What is the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)?

The FSC is an international, non-profit organization that has developed a certification system for forest management and wood products. Its aim is to manage forests worldwide sustainably and responsibly by complying with ecological, social and economic standards.

What does the FSC seal on wood products stand for?

The FSC seal guarantees that the wood or wood-based product comes from forests that are managed according to the strict principles and criteria of the FSC. It therefore certifies a responsible origin that takes the environment, forest workers and local communities into account.

What types of FSC labels are there?

There are three main labels: FSC 100% (made entirely from FSC-certified forests), FSC Mix (combination of certified, recycled and controlled wood) and FSC Recycled (made entirely from recycled material). These labels provide information about the exact material composition.

How is compliance with the FSC standards monitored?

Compliance with the FSC standards is verified by independent certification bodies. They carry out regular audits in the forests (forest certification) and at companies along the entire supply chain (chain-of-custody certification) to ensure compliance.