Looking back at our history
In the early 1990s, the tropical forest destruction became alarmingly evident as deforestation surged to meet the demands of booming construction driven by population growth and urbanisation. The annual rate of tropical deforestation was about 80 per cent higher than ten years ago.
Outdated forest management methods and illegal logging thoughtlessly produced changes in landscapes and the environment, the degradation of complex and vulnerable ecosystems and the disappearance of species. Indigenous communities, whose livelihoods were closely tied to these forests, were also deeply affected.
Amid the increasing awareness of and concern for the protection of nature, the Forest Stewardship Council, a voluntary certification for sustainable forestry, was born.
In three decades, this small seed has become a force for protecting these crucial ecosystems, and all those who depend on them.
Milestones and Achievements
Many milestones were met along this three-decade journey. We have faced numerous challenges, grown exponentially, and always kept our eyes focused on the mission of protecting our world’s forests. Take a look at some of our key moments over the years!
FSC today
Today, we are the leader in sustainable forest management, operating the world's most rigorous and trusted forest certification system. This remarkable journey wouldn't have been possible without the contributions of our members, certificate holders, partners and people who support us by choosing FSC-certified products. Over the past 30 years, we've grown and thrived together, making significant strides in achieving our vision – Forests For All, Forever.
FSC Network
83 countries with FSC-certified forests
FSC-certified forests
Over 160 million hectares of certified forests across the world are managed according to FSC standards
FSC Membership
We're governed by a global network of 1167 members, representing environmental, social, and economic perspectives.
FSC staff
FSC is represented by over 300 employees across the world, making sustainable forest management a worldwide mission.