FSC certification crucial for enhancing Ethiopia’s participation in global forest product markets: EFD

Addis Ababa, December 2, 2024 (FBC) – The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in partnership with the Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD) has launched the Interim Forest Stewardship Standard (IFSS) for Ethiopia for Responsible Forest Management.

In his opening remarks at the launching ceremony, Kebede Yimam, Director General of Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD), stated that Ethiopia is currently engaged in massive restoration activities through the Green Legacy Initiative and the Ethiopian Forestry Development is intensively engaged forest development, protection and utilization efforts with various key stakeholders, adding that the accession to the FSC will enhance such initiatives.

“An initiative to enhance the direct economic contribution of the forest sector is also being developed. By enhancing the sustainable use of forest resources, we can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and support local communities, all while maintaining the integrity of our forests,” he added.

“The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification proves the future aspects of sustainable management of forest for timber and non-timber products and associated forest product in supply chains. Understanding these chains is crucial for enhancing Ethiopia’s participation in global forest product markets. By equipping ourselves with the necessary knowledge and tools, we can ensure that our Products meet international standards, opening doors for new opportunities and partnerships on the global stage,” he explained.

“The FSC provides a robust framework for voluntary accreditation and independent third- party certification, empowering certificate holders to market their products as the outcome of responsible forest management practices. This certification is not merely a badge of honor; it translates into a commitment to uphold the highest standards of environmental – sustainability, social equity, and economic viability,” he noted.

“The FSC Interim Forest Stewardship Standard for Ethiopia will be used to pilot certification of 1000 ha bamboo forests in Adiyo district of Southwestern Ethiopia initiated by INBAR and Ethiopian Forestry Development,” according to the Director General.

Annah Agasha, FSC Coordinator for Eastern Africa, for her part, stated that Ethiopia has officially joined 85 countries that adopted FSC standards, and will get certification for pilot products soon.

Saying that Ethiopia has immense experiences in reforestation and environmental protection, the coordinator stated that the FSC certification will enable the nation enhance its forest management capacity.

“Within a few years Ethiopian forest products will enter the international market,” she underscored, while explaining the significance of the FSC project.

Kibruyisfa Sisay (PhD), REDD+ Investment Programme Coordinator at Ethiopian Forest Development (EFD), pointed out that Ethiopia has planted more than 40 billion seedlings since the commencement of the Green Legacy Initiative in 2019.

The deforestation rate has decreased from 94,000 ha of land annually in 2016 to 27,000 ha in 2023, according to Kibruyisfa, who also revealed that Ethiopia has manged to increase the forest coverage from 17.2pct in 2019 to 23.6 in 2023.

The FSC certification will provide Ethiopia with a range of benefits including economic gains through expanding market access for sustainably produced forest products, attracting investment and enhancing environmental protection initiatives, he added.

If Ethiopia implements the standards, it will benefit economically, socially and environmentally

Representative of the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR), Dr Selim Reza, for his part stated that, in 2022, the organization drafted Ethiopian Interim National Standards (INS), and this document has already been approved by the FSC this year.

Saying that bamboo is fast growing, annually harvestable, climate resilient and has diverse product ranges, Dr Selim Reza noted that Ethiopia is poised to benefit from the product, pledging continued support to the initiatives underway.