Incentive

The FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) is a not-for-profit, international, membership-based organisation with a worldwide remit to fight for environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable forest management.
The FSC COC certification (Chain of Custody) was introduced to ensure that timber can be traced all the way back to its original source.

Outcome

Certified companies can use the FSC logo to demonstrate their good stewardship of timber resources. Documented evidence that the wood which they process is sourced from ecologically sound and socially responsible production sites strengthens their public image and is a key selling point.
The FSC CoC standard demands in return that processing plants or trading firms have clear and transparent procedures in place with regard to the handling of the materials they use. Exact documentation, thorough record-keeping and careful tracking of the flow of materials all play a part in improving efficiency in production processes and in providing greater proof of authenticity in purchasing and sales.

Target groups

Woodworking enterprises, paper processing companies and organisations along the entire production chain.

Validity

5 years - there is an annual audit to ensure that standards are being maintained and a recertification audit after 5 years.

Recognition

The SQS certificate of conformity with FSC COC has international recognition.

Combinations

FSC COC can be combined with ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), BRCGS and PEFC COC.