Paper is a widely used resource in the professional world, and it is at the heart of a sustainable approach. Among the existing solutions, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) paper stands out as a preferred choice for organisations concerned about their impact on the planet. This label, synonymous with sustainable forest management, offers a concrete response to current environmental challenges.
What is FSC paper?
The FSC label was created in 1993, following the Rio Earth Summit. FSC paper is therefore more than just a product: It is part of a global initiative aimed at promoting the sustainable management and protection of the world's forests.
This certification ensures that forest products come from practices that protect biodiversity, benefit local communities and support the local economy while remaining profitable in the long term.
The meaning of the FSC label
The Forest Stewardship Council is based on 10 principles that guide sustainable forestry. These FSC principles and criteria cover various aspects:
- Compliance with national laws;
- Workers' rights and employment conditions;
- Indigenous peoples’ rights;
- Community relations;
- Benefits from the forest;
- Environmental values and impacts of forest management;
- Management planning;
- Monitoring and assessment of management practices;
- High Conservation Value Forests;
- Implementation of management activities.
By adhering to these precepts, forest managers commit to practising responsible exploitation that respects ecological balance, supports biodiversity, and ensures the renewal of resources.
The adoption of sustainable printing paper, packaging, and shipping envelopes and pouches by a company is much more than a mere procurement decision; it is a conscious choice to support practices that have a positive impact on the planet.
The different types of FSC labels
The FSC certification offers three main types of labels, each reflecting a different way in which the wood or sustainable office paper has been produced.
FSC 100%
This label is awarded to products made entirely from materials sourced from FSC-certified forests. It guarantees that all the wood used in the product comes from responsibly managed forests.
FSC Mix
Products bearing the FSC mix label contain a mixture of materials from FSC-certified forests, recycled materials, and/or non-FSC-certified controlled wood, but managed in a way that does not harm the environment. This label encourages the use of recycled materials while supporting sustainable forest management.
FSC Recycled
This label is reserved for products made from 100% recycled materials, thus contributing to reducing the demand for virgin wood and promoting the circular economy. For example, in addition to paper, you can find envelopes or self-adhesive pouches bearing the FSC Recycled label.
The advantages of FSC paper for a sustainable paper policy
The adoption of FSC paper in a company represents a significant step towards a more sustainable procurement policy. This choice reflects not only environmental awareness, but also a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.
Reduced environmental footprint
The first and main advantage of FSC paper lies in its significant contribution to reducing the impact of human activities on forests. By ensuring that the paper comes from responsibly managed forests, the FSC label contributes to the protection of biodiversity, water resources conservation, and limitation of deforestation.
The sustainable management practices encouraged by the FSC also contribute to the fight against climate change by preserving trees, which play an important role in carbon sequestration.
Social and economic benefits
Beyond the environmental aspect, choosing FSC paper also supports practices that have positive impacts on local communities and the economy. The FSC certification include respect for the forest workers and indigenous peoples' rights. These principles promote the social and economic development of forest regions, allowing communities to directly benefit from the resources in their environment.
From an economic standpoint, opting for FSC paper can also prove beneficial for companies. By responding to the growing consumer demand for sustainable products, they strengthen their brand image and competitiveness in the market.
Furthermore, by integrating sustainability criteria into their supply chain, companies can anticipate future environmental standards.
How to integrate FSC paper into your procurement policy?
Integrating FSC paper into your procurement policy is an essential step when implementing more sustainable resource management. It requires a strategic and committed approach to ensure that sourcing choices reflect the company's values of sustainability.
Assessment of your paper needs
The first step towards a sustainable procurement policy begins with an accurate assessment of the company's paper needs. This involves conducting an audit of current paper consumption to determine areas where it is possible to reduce usage, reuse or recycle.
This approach not only reduces the environmental footprint, but also saves money by optimising paper orders. By better understanding its needs, it becomes easier for a company to select FSC paper products that meet its specific requirements, while supporting responsible forest management practices.
Selection of FSC-certified suppliers
Once the paper needs are clearly defined, the next step is to identify and choose suppliers offering FSC-certified products. This selection should be based on strict sustainability criteria, verifying certifications and prioritising partners who can attest to the traceability of their products.
For a company, it is important to work with suppliers who share its values of environmental sustainability and who can provide paper products that meet FSC standards.
Importance of traceability and transparency in the supply chain
To ensure the authenticity of a company’s commitment to FSC-certified paper, it is crucial to ensure traceability and transparency in its supply chain. This means requiring suppliers to provide proof of FSC certification for the paper products purchased by the company.
Furthermore, openly communicating about the company’s choice of FSC paper and the efforts made to integrate sustainable procurement practices strengthens customers and stakeholders trust in the brand. This demonstrates not only a commitment to environmental protection, but also a willingness to positively contribute to society.
Integrating FSC paper into your procurement policy is not just a sustainable act; it is a strategic approach that strengthens the brand image, supports sustainable development, and contributes to a more respectful economy.
