Championing Forests for All Forever

The world’s forests are disappearing fast, with deforestation responsible for 10-15%* of all global greenhouse gas emissions – more than the total global transport sector. But it doesn’t have to be this way. When managed responsibly, plantation New Growth™ forests can help protect wildlife, keep waterways clean, and take pressure off irreplaceable old growth forests.

This is where we choose to make our impact, by supporting forestry that gives back more than it takes.

Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) is a global not-for-profit founded in 1993. FSC sets rigorous standards for sustainable forest management, ensuring that environmental, social, and economic values are balanced. Its framework includes unique, globally consistent requirements for protecting biodiversity making it one of the most stringent commercial forestry standards available.

FSC is the only forest certification system that requires forest managers to identify, maintain, and enhance High Conservation Values (HCVs). These include old growth and other rare or threatened forest ecosystems, species and habitats, and critical ecosystem services. Forest managers must map biodiversity, identify and protect habitat corridors, and dedicate a proportion of their forest primarily to conservation.

FSC certified forests are managed to avoid, repair, or mitigate negative environmental impacts. Conversion of natural forests to plantations or non-forest uses is strictly prohibited, and restoration of native ecosystems, natural watercourses, and buffer zones is required. FSC also places restrictions on hazardous chemicals, prohibiting the use of most highly hazardous pesticides.

Through these robust measures, FSC ensures that forest management maintains and enhances biodiversity, safeguards vital ecosystem services, and supports forest-dependent communities - helping to secure the long term health and resilience of the world’s forests.

Companies that buy timber-based products and demand credible certification have played a significant role in increasing the area of forest being sustainably managed. In New Zealand 1,318,888 ha is FSC certified and by purchasing FSC certified products, companies and consumers can make a difference for future generations.

* The effects of deforestation on global carbon emissions