FSC is excited to declare the official publication of the new FSC Forest Stewardwhip Standard for Peru. This publication specifically covers all categories of Management Units in natural forests and plantations, including small and low intensity managed forests, as well as Non-Timber Forest Products. Along with this, this important standard will be effective from October 15, 2024, not only focuses on productive management, but also encompasses conservation management and forest restoration.

Peru, being a country rich in natural forests, has a territory where almost 60% is covered by forests (Ministry of Environment (MINAM), 2024), covering a total area of 82,543,385 hectares as of 2019. These forests include Amazonian forests (94.2%), dry forests (4.7%) and Andean forests (1.1%), with a diversity of 42 types of forests on the coast, highlands and jungle, each with its own unique richness. These ecosystems are fundamental to Peru and the world, providing invaluable benefits such as natural resources, water and food, as well as playing a crucial role in stabilizing the climate and environment. They are also the home and livelihood of indigenous communities, representing a great potential for the development of sustainable productive initiatives that generate well-being for the people who live in them.

In this context, the FSC Forest Stewardship Standard is presented as a key tool to promote positive changes in the forestry sector as it promotes responsible forest management based on FSC’s ten principles. FSC’s 10 principles for responsible forest stewardship range from the protection of High Conservation Values to respect for the rights of indigenous Peoples, communities and workers, providing fair and safe working conditions, as well as monitoring environmental and social impacts.

The process for the development of this instrument began in 2015 by a group of highly committed and experienced national professionals in various areas of forest management. This standard has undergone rigorous field testing and three periods of consultation with multiple stakeholders, including companies, NGOs, social actors and representatives of indigenous peoples, communities and smallholders.

The initiative represents an important step towards the promotion of responsible practices in the Peruvian forestry sector and a significant contribution to the conservation of the country’s valuable natural resources.

Source: FSC