At The Bernard Group, we’re constantly developing and offering eco-friendly design solutions to our clients. One such solution? FSC certified wood products. For marketing concepts and retail fixtures, these sustainably-sourced materials prove that what you use to build your projects is just as important as the designs themselves.

What is FSC Certification?

FSC stands for the Forest Stewardship Council, a non-profit organization established in 1993. Its core mission is to champion sustainably managed forests through responsible land stewardship, working collaboratively within the forest products industry. Essentially, the council sets rigorous standards for responsible forest management, ensuring that forests are managed in an environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically viable manner.

With FSC certification, you gain assurance that the wood products you use are sources without contributing to deforestation, habitation destruction, or the exploitation of workers. This certification guarantees responsible sourcing and transparent processes throughout the supply chain.

Different Types of FSC Certification

The type of FSC certification depends on a company’s position within the supply chain.

  • Forest Management Certification: Awarded to forest land managers who adhere to the FSC’s Principles and Criteria, demonstrating sustainable forestry practices.
  • Chain of Custody (COC) Certification: Granted to suppliers and manufacturers (like The Bernard Group) who can track FSC certified materials from the forest to the end product, ensuring the integrity of the sustainable wood throughout the production process.

For wood to achieve FSC certified status, they key factor lies in the forestry practices employed in its production. The certification focuses on the sustainable growing and harvesting process, not the specific genetic characteristics of the trees. Importantly, FSC certified wood is graded similarly to conventional wood, offering the same aesthetic and functional versatility, but with the added environmental advantage of responsible forestry.

Hint: Did someone say eco alternatives? We’ve got eight of them: Sustainable Signage: 7 Substrates for Eco-Friendly Printing.

Advantages of Choosing FSC Wood

When it comes to FSC wood, the biggest advantage is knowing that the material you’re using is provided by forest management and harvesting techniques that maintain the quality and productivity of the land. 

Another advantage? FSC certified wood can be used as a direct replacement for conventionally harvested wood. In other words, there’s no difference aesthetically, thus making it as versatile as ever.

And because nearly every wood product that’s used commercially is available with FSC certification, your design playing field just got a whole lot wider. Think beyond solid lumber to sheet stock like MDF or particle board, plus decorative face veneers on furniture. It really can be used for any project.

Hint: Did you know we’re carbon neutral, too? Here’s how we did it: Sustainable Printing: The Bernard Group’s Carbon Neutral Program.

The Bernard Group’s Commitment to FSC and Sustainable Practices

As an eco-friendly company, it’s crucial we walk the talk when it comes to sustainable material offerings. It’s what our customers have come to expect, after all – we know our clients are actively seeking these types of products.

“FSC and other certifications are definitely moving up on the importance list for our clients,” said The Bernard Group Millwork Manager Jeremy Olson. “For us to remain viable into the future, it’s imperative we understand our impact on the environment.”

And as for FSC wood and other eco-friendly materials, we find our conscious customers truly care about the big picture when it comes to printing.

“The decision to transition to certified wood from non-certified wood is usually an easy one for most of our clients,” said Olson. “All of our suppliers are Chain of Custody certified, allowing us to procure certified products for our production and client needs.”

It’s those increasing needs that prove eco is the only way to go. “It gives us a great feeling knowing we’re doing our part to encourage sustainable and regenerative practices in our production processes and our industry,” said Olson.

Hint: Ready to achieve your own Green Goals? Let’s discuss how our Environmental Management System Drives Sustainability.