Process title

Revision of FSC Product Classification

Normative document

FSC-STD-40-004a FSC Product Classification Addendum 

Planned duration

April 2022 - December 2023

Process background

The FSC product classification (FSC-STD-40-004a) V2-1 is an addendum to the FSC Chain of Custody standard that provides the English nomenclatures and codes that certificate holders shall use to classify their product group/types.

Process objective

The purpose of this revision process is to update the FSC product classifications.

The revision will focus on the following objectives:  

  • Explore whether an overall more fundamental revision of the product classification system is needed and identify relevant options, opportunities, and risks; 

  • Align product group definitions, product types, product classifications within the normative framework and reflect industry terminology and language;  

  • Clarify existing terms and definitions (i.e., laminated vs melamine or wood fiber fleece vs wood wool, plank vs beam vs batten etc.);  

  • Add new product classification categories for new and growing FSC products (i.e., textiles, biofuels, services); 

  • Avoid and reduce unnecessary product classification proliferation and variance; 

  • Include clear guidance on how to use and apply the product classification to allow for consistent application and remove ambiguity;  

Process lead

César Gonçalves, chainofcustody@fsc.org

Working group members
  • Jing Wen, Value Chain Development Manager, FSC International 

  • Michael Marus, Chief Information Officer and Director of IT, FSC International  

  • Jenna Mueller, Chain of Custody & Trademark Senior Manager , FSC US  

  • Sebastian Hetsch, FSC COC Manager,  TÜV SÜD Czech s.r.o. 

Timeline

May 2022
Working group kick-off meeting

First meeting of the technical working group

23 February 2021
Review Report Consultation

All stakeholders were invited to comment on the review report on FSC-STD-40-004a FSC Product Classification.

The deadline for commenting was 24 March 2021.

Important documents

FSC-STD-40-004a Review Report
PDF, Size: 600.01KB