Over thirty years ago, a group of individuals and organisations, concerned for the world’s forests, came together to make a change. From different backgrounds and parts of the world, they knew real change would only come through working together; finding common ground and setting principles to guide forest management worldwide. Combining their social, environmental, and economic experiences they founded the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
They discussed and debated differing needs, finding solutions together. This spirit of collaboration formed the essence of the FSC and its General Assembly.
The General Assembly has become the place where our members come together to share knowledge, confront challenges, and shape the future of responsible forest management. Today, we come together as global citizens to share our voices and make decisions that will carry the FSC legacy forward. We are here to grow our influence on how forests are managed, enabling them to provide the products and services people rely on while remaining resilient and supporting the communities whose lives depend on them.
I know that reconciling the needs of communities, forests, and national interests will not always be easy. There will be tough discussions. But I am confident that, as members of the FSC, we will carry forward the spirit of our founders and keep building solutions together.
Today, I invite you to bring your knowledge and wisdom to shape a common path forward; one that helps FSC grow and positively impacts how the world’s forests are managed.
Stuart Valintine, Chair of the FSC International Board of Directors.