FSC decisions, principles and criteria

A transparent and participatory system

Any forest owner, timber industry, labour union, environmental organisation, indigenous peoples' group or individual may become a member of the FSC and guide its development.

The members of the FSC have developed 10 international principles and criteria for certification of good forest management.

National FSC working groups adapt these principles and criteria to the specific conditions of the respective country. In many regions of Europe only minor adaptations of forest management are necessary to fulfil the requirements for an FSC certificate.

Agreement on best practices
One of the key elements in implementing FSC certification is to arrive at an agreement between regional forest industry, environmental groups, unions and other forest stakeholders on best practice standards for forestry, taking into account particular geographic, cultural and ecosystem contexts and balancing economic, social and environmental interests.

Go to the FSC International website to read the FSC Principles & Criteria of Forest Stewardship