This pioneering project achieved the world’s first FSC® certification for the sustainable management and chain of custody of candelilla wax in the semi-arid scrubland ecosystem of Coahuila, Mexico. It represents a strategic, community-driven model that advances sustainable rural development in arid regions through a holistic approach that integrates community governance, rural entrepreneurship, intergenerational succession in ejidos, and fair market access for non-timber forest products (NTFPs).