A Not So Revolting FSC Development

Sometimes even a 900 pound gorilla listens!

As I previously reported, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) had established an April 2014 deadline for FSC certificate holders to register with their suppliers in preparation of an international on-line control of FSC material purchases.

Many certificate holders (including some of you) used the open comment period to express concerns.

The single biggest concern seemed to be that once certificate holders connected to suppliers on this on-line platform, they would be listing for public consumption a list of their suppliers.  But the bottom line is that everyone hated the idea of more reporting requirements, at more cost, with no real opportunity to offset the costs with increased material pricing.

Well, as I said, sometimes voices matter.

As a result of the public feedback, FSC has cancelled the requirement for registration by April 2014, and will delay until further study any requirement that participation be anything other than voluntary.

Read more Mike DiGiuro:

Bamboo: What a Revolting FSC Development Part III

What a Revolting FSC Development Part II

What A Revolting FSC Development This Is!

As these proposed rules come out, if you don’t agree with them – say something.  Most proposed rule changes are accompanied by a public comment period.  Use the comment period to express your support of non-support for changes.  Sometimes you win!

A copy of the FSC consultation report is attached.

Mike DiGiuro recently retired from Flexible Materials of Jeffersonville, IN, capping off a 40-year career in the veneer and plywood industry. He is a frequent presenter at seminars and industry meetings, and writes the occasional article for trade journals. He may be contacted at [email protected].

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