What Does It Mean for a Forest to Be FSC Certified?

When discussing sustainable packaging, it is not enough for a material to appear environmentally friendly.

In industrial packaging, it is always essential to ask yourself:

Where does Kraft fibre come from?

Is it certified?

What does a label like FSC really mean?

In sectors where traceability and regulatory compliance are essential, such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and agri-food, these questions are not only relevant but also crucial.

Especially when it comes to sensitive or regulated products, choosing packaging with guarantees can mean the difference between complying with regulations and taking unnecessary risks.

What is FSC certification and why does it matter?

The FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) is an international certification that guarantees that wood and its derivatives, such as kraft paper, come from responsibly managed forests, taking into account three pillars: environmental protection, social respect, and the economic viability of forest resources.

Having this seal means that the origin of the material has been audited, that there is documented traceability, and that strict minimum standards are met. It does not guarantee that the forest is perfect, but it does ensure that it complies with globally recognised responsible practices.

Is an FSC forest the same as a sustainable forest?

Not necessarily. Some forests apply good environmental and social practices without being certified, for economic or administrative reasons. In other words, a forest that is managed correctly in Granada or Empordà may not be certified, while one with FSC certification may only meet the minimum requirements.

Certification, therefore, is not the only guarantee of sustainability, but it is a useful and widely recognised tool, especially when clear traceability is required in regulated sectors or for export.

Our approach: practical and verifiable sustainability

For more than 40 years, we have been working to offer packaging solutions that combine functionality, safety, and environmental friendliness. We are committed to certified fibres because we believe in responsible production, but we also collaborate with local suppliers who, without having FSC certification, apply admirable forest management practices.

The key is to find the right balance: packaging that complies with regulations (ADR, UN, FDA), is recyclable and reusable, and adds value to the product and the brand that uses it.

Why does the FSC add value in industrial sectors?

Because it allows you to demonstrate with technical documentation that the material used complies with international standards. This is especially useful in sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and agri-food, where traceability and audits are commonplace.

Furthermore, the use of certified kraft paper can be included in sustainability reports or responsible purchasing plans, strengthening corporate reputation.

Asking the right questions leads to better decisions.

When choosing a packaging supplier, it is not enough for them to simply say that they are sustainable.

You need to ask:

  • What certifications do they have?
  • How do they demonstrate this?
  • What impact do their materials and processes have?

Responding honestly and with technical support is part of our philosophy. If you need help choosing the most suitable packaging for your product and your sustainability goals, we are here to help.

Discover our sustainable packaging solutions or contact our technical team.

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