The Forest Stewardship Council is an organization committed to sustainable forest management through socially, economically, and environmentally sound practices while addressing the various challenges that accompany climate change, biodiversity, and deforestation. Founded in 1994, the FSC offers voluntary certification for member organizations and businesses so consumers can more easily choose ethically sourced sustainable products from responsibly managed forests. Here’s what you need to know about selecting FSC-certified products to elevate your design choices.
Understanding the FSC Certification Process
The FSC uses strict criteria to determine the social and environmental management of forests. Forests that meet those criteria are eligible for certification, and products made from these forests can be promoted by and through the FSC, which works with stakeholders to support the owners of the forests and the communities that depend upon them. FSC certification offers many benefits, allowing users to meet stringent green building standards requiring FSC-certified materials, meet consumer demand, and fulfill governmental requirements regarding eco-friendly building materials.
Wood is eligible for FSC certification if it originates in a responsibly managed forest that maintains the highest social and environmental standards and can be traced on its journey from the forest to the factory and beyond. To become FSC-certified, the company harvesting and processing the wood must be audited by an independent third-party body that complies with the strict FSC standards regarding all social, environmental, and economic standards. In other words, the business must use the appropriate harvesting techniques, engage with the community appropriately, and use methods that pose as little risk to biodiversity as possible. The process must also trace the wood from its point of origin, or the forest, to the final product, ensuring a “chain of custody,” so to speak, allowing the consumer to track the product at each stage of the processing. The third-party certification body audits the product to ensure compliance both by the forest and throughout the supply chain.
By choosing FSC-certified wood, you can be confident that you are supporting the most sustainable forestry practices possible.
Jacaranda: FSC-Certified Sustainable Wood Veneer and More
At Jacaranda, we are proud of our FSC certification. We understand how deforestation affects not only the environment but the people living in and around the forests. Architects, builders, and designers have the power to make a difference, and choosing sustainable products like eco-friendly veneers can help us shape a healthier, more positive future while fighting deforestation, protecting biodiversity, and supporting Indigenous communities.
Our FSC-certified sustainable wood veneers and other products integrate seamlessly into any project and help you achieve LEED, WELL, and other green building certifications to meet the highest environmental standards without sacrificing style or design goals. Our eco-friendly veneers make it easy to create stylish, beautiful, eco-friendly projects that minimize your footprint while leaving a lasting impression.
Incorporating FSC-certified materials into your project is more than a design choice: It’s a commitment to building a better future. At Jacaranda, we team with architects to move toward sustainable design as we work toward actively protecting the planet. Contact our team today and explore our range of eco-friendly real wood veneers for your next corporate project!
