FSC certification guarantees Ethiopia’s forest management for timber, non-timber products

Addis Ababa, December 2, 2024 (FBC) – The Forest Stewardship Council certification ensures the future aspects of sustainable forest management for timber, non-timber products and associated forest products in supply chains, according to the Ethiopian Forestry Development.

Today, the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) officially launched the Interim Forest Stewardship Standard (IFSS) for Ethiopia, providing access to global markets for certified forest products.

Kebede Yimam, Director General of Ethiopian Forestry Development, highlighted the importance of this certification in improving Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) in Ethiopia.

He also noted the country’s ongoing restoration efforts through the Green Legacy Initiative and intensive forest development, protection, and utilization activities with key stakeholders.

Ethiopia is working to enhance the economic contribution of the forest sector, stimulating growth, creating jobs, and supporting local communities while preserving forest integrity.

“As forest and woodlot management intensifies, establishing standards for their management and products becomes increasingly important,” he added.

The Forest Stewardship Council certification ensures the future aspects of sustainable forest management for timber, non-timber products, and associated forest products 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,” Kebede added.

The FSC offers a robust framework for voluntary accreditation and third-party certification, enabling certificate holders to market their products as the result of responsible forest management practices.

The director general noted that this certification represents a commitment to the highest standards of environmental sustainability, social equity, and economic viability.

The FSC Interim Forest Stewardship Standard for Ethiopia will be piloted with the certification of 1,000 hectares of bamboo forests, Southwestern Ethiopia, initiated by INBAR and Ethiopian Forestry Development.

Collaboration across sectors and engagement with stakeholders is essential as the journey progresses, with continued dedication to environmental stewardship.

Annah Agasha, FSC Coordinator for Eastern Africa, explained that the Ethiopian Forest Stewardship Standard underwent a thorough development and approval process.

Led by the Soil Association and approved by the FSC’s policies bearing group, the standard is now recognized as a credible tool for responsible forest management, both in Ethiopia and globally, as reported by local newswire service ENA.

“Ethiopia joins over 85 countries for which the FSC has developed standards, enabling these countries including Ethiopia to implement responsible forest management. This means that Ethiopia can now responsibly produce products from its forests, ensuring that they pass through our chain of custody and are traceable to any global market.”

As we mark the launch of this standard, it means I confirm to you that it is a credible document that you can use to show the world, and the rest of Ethiopia, that you’re managing your forest in a responsible way, he added.

This standard will remain valid for implementation until it is revised or replaced, she said, confirming that the standard will be effective starting December 15, 2024, and is now available for use by forest managers seeking certification.