Control Union – Certification

FSC® – Forest Management

FSC® – Forest Management (FSC FM) certification offers public assurance of responsible forest management. Developed by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the standard is designed for forest owners and managers. As an independent body, Control Union carries out audits and issues certificates in line with this standard.

Control Union – Certification

    What is FSC® – Forest Management?

    FSC Forest Management certification demonstrates that forests can be managed responsibly. This means that biodiversity is preserved, local workers and employees are respected, and the forest is economically sustainable. The certification is based on ten global principles, adapted to national circumstances. It ensures sustainable forest management while strengthening reputations and providing access to international markets simultaneously. Control Union’s global network delivers efficient and cost-effective certification. We support organisations in demonstrating their commitment to quality.

    Request FSC® – Forest Management now!

    Why choose Control Union as your certification partner?

    • Global and local customer-focused employees with broad knowledge and years of (practical) experience. We guide you through the changing world of certifications.

    • We conduct audits and certifications with a human touch. We enjoy contributing ideas on how to take your company to the next level and communicate clearly about the certification process.

    • Control Union understands the importance of acting quickly, which is why our auditors will visit you for the audit as soon as possible after your request, always in consultation with you, of course.

    Additional modules

    Control Union is accredited and can certify against the following modules:

    • Forest Management Groups (FSC-STD-30-005)

    • Ecosystem Services (FSC-PRO-30-006)

    • SLIMF (FSC-STD-01-003)

    • Continuous Improvement Procedure (FSC-PRO-30-011)

    • Regulatory Module

    Features of FSC® – Forest Management

    Control Union – Certification
    1.

    Enhanced market access

    Secures entry to global markets that demand sustainably sourced wood and other forest products.

    2.

    Demonstrated sustainability

    Confirms that forest operations meet the highest environmental, social and economic standards.

    3.

    A strengthened reputation

    Uses the trusted FSC label to provide independent confirmation of responsible practices.

    4.

    A comprehensive scope

    Applies to any FSC-certified forest, including those with non-timber products.

    5.

    Efficient certification

    Delivered by Control Union’s global network for a cost-effective and expert service.

    Commodities

    This standard is applicable to the following commodities:

    • Forest, wood & paper

    Control Union – Sustainable commodities
    In a constantly changing environment, we are working with supply chain partners to create a demonstrably more sustainable future
    James Schadenberg – Control Union Certifications
    Request FSC® – Forest Management now!

    .

    This is how certification with Control Union works

    In outline, we go through these 6 steps. We’ll tell you all about it at the start of the project.

    Applying for certification

    Apply by using the contact details at the bottom of this page

    Determining scope of certification

    Together, we discuss the details and scope of your application. Which processes, products and/or locations would you like to have certified?

    Quotation & contract

    After establishing exact scopes and auditing times, you’ll receive our quote.

    After agreement, you may start the preparation phase.

    Audit planning, preparation, execution and reporting

    You will be assigned one of our qualified and independent auditors. We’ll reach out to you to check if you’re ready for the initial audit. If needed, we’ll provide additional information to help to prepare.

    Good to go? The initial audit is planned, carried out and reported.

    Review

    During the audit, we will assess if you meet the requirements. After that, we will confirm if you’ve fully complied, if there are things to improve, or if there are any non-conformities.

    Together, we will discuss our findings, plan of action and planning in case of non-conformities. In case your chosen program includes a logo, we will discuss this too.

    Receiving your certificate

    If all non-conformities are resolved and everything has been assessed positively, the certification decision follows.

    Depending on the type of certification:
    • you are allowed to trade using the certificate
    • you are executing the process according to the guidelines
    • you are allowed to name the certificate on your website
    Some certificates allow you to use the certificate’s logo. We will provide you with guidelines for this.

    The certification process does not end here, annual audits ensure consistent quality!

    Global coverage, local knowledge

    Control Union provides peace of mind in supply chains worldwide. Thanks to our up-to-date knowledge and experience, we cover all aspects of the supply and value chain in various industries. We think along, communicate clearly and offer concrete solutions. As a ‘one-stop shop’ for international and local certificates, we make certification more efficient. Want to know more about our independent, accredited audits and certifications? Whether you are certifying for the first time or have been around for years, we help!

    105
    +
    Years of experience
    275
    +
    offices and labs worldwide in 80 countries
    6000
    +
    Proud colleagues
    2025-05-14 PCU Zwolle Frank Jeurink-min

    Request FSC® – Forest Management or freely discuss?

    We are happy to help. Simply fill in the form below, or contact us on +31 (0) 38 42 60 121

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    Independent tailor-made services

    What makes you unique, we make demonstrable

    Does your organisation have specific certification or audit requirements that are not covered by the certification programmes? For example developing a new standard? Control Union also provides independent customised services.

    Read more about our customised solutions
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