Chain of Custody (CoC) is a key component of the FSC system - providing the framework for tracking FSC-certified materials through the supply chain – and the last major revision process took place ten years ago.
When revising the FSC CoC standard, there is a delicate balance between the integrity of the system and a streamlined approach. It is crucial to have members engaged so they can shape the direction of these fundamental changes.
The session outlined the timeline and scope of the revision process, with the aim to publish the revised standards by January 2027, and an effective date set for July 2027. For the first time, all related CoC standards are being revised together to ensure that stakeholders experience a single transition period once the new standards take effect.
César Gonçalves, Technical Coordinator for the revision, described the new standard in three words: credible, consistent, and relevant.
“For us to consider change or an addition to our requirements, there has to be grounded, strong well-reasoned justification for it, not just to change for the sake of changing.”
He also emphasized the shift to a web-based format to enhance usability and accessibility, allowing users to select only what is relevant to their scope and enabling quicker updates such as notes, explanations, and interpretations.
Insights from the working groups
Given the scope and the complexity of this revision, the FSC Secretariat took an innovative approach and established four working groups to work simultaneously.
During the session, updates were presented by members of the four working groups, each focusing on different aspects of the CoC system: core requirements, group and multi-site certification, circularity, and workers’ rights.
The new draft on the revised CoC standards will open for public consultation on 15 November 2025. FSC invites all members and stakeholders to participate through the FSC Consultation Platform.