And while environmental impact is top of mind, it cannot be a singular focus – social responsibilities and governance must also be integrally incorporated into all future strategies.
As a part of FSC's global work, FSC standards and solutions already cover a lot of the criteria behind the SDGs, helping to create this global change. FSC currently helps to achieve 40 targets under 14 SDGs. This specifically includes SDG 15 - Life on Land - but more broadly the FSC forest stewardship principles also contribute to the SDGs focused on poverty, equality, natural resources, production and consumption patterns, decent work, climate change, inclusive and accountable societies, and global partnerships.
"FSC certification is becoming an important tool in achieving a substantial part of the SDGs. Our most direct contribution should be to Goal 15 ‘Life on Land’ – and Target 15.2 on Progress Towards Sustainable Forest Management, but the way we work, the practices followed by FSC-certified forests, and the impacts we have on forest markets all make FSC an ally in achieving several of the SDGs.” said Marcus Colchester, FSC International Board Member.
But how can FSC solutions become even more relevant and better suited to meet the needs of global agendas?
Growing the reach of FSC through enhanced forest certification and other solutions will enable recognition of the true value of forests and its incorporation into society. This will support our 2050 vision by enhancing relevance of market mechanisms, products and services that work in favour of forests and the landscapes they are part of. In doing so, FSC aims to improve integration and leverage of forest stewardship by forest governance systems, policy and regulation; and increase actions reflecting a sound understanding from people and institutions of how their lives are interlinked with the world’s forests.
“As demonstrated by these contributions to 14 Goals and 40 targets, FSC is clearly a significant instrument for achieving the SDGs for governments, private sector and also communities. Indeed, FSC is a relevant partner for all who seek to take action –to support sustainable natural resources management and the achievement of social and economic objectives” said Carla Cardenas, FSC International Board Member
FSC certification is becoming a key tool in achieving a substantial part of the SDGs. Our most direct contribution will be through the way we work; the practices followed by FSC-certified forests, and the impacts we have on forest markets all make FSC an ally in achieving several of the SDGs.