FSC certified paper refers to paper products that meet the sustainability standards set by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
It ensures that the fiber used in the paper comes from responsibly managed forests, controlled sources, or recycled materials—avoiding illegal logging, deforestation, and environmental harm.
In the packaging industry, FSC certification has become a global standard for responsible sourcing and a requirement for many international brands.
Why FSC Certified Paper Matters in Packaging
1. Ensures Legal and Sustainable Raw Materials
FSC certification guarantees that the paper originates from:
Responsibly managed forests
Controlled wood sources
Recycled fiber
The supply chain is transparent, traceable, and ethically managed.
2. Strengthens a Brand’s Sustainability Image
Brands can display the FSC logo on their packaging, signaling environmental responsibility to consumers.
Many industries—beauty, fashion, food, lifestyle, and e-commerce—prefer FSC packaging to align with sustainability values.
3. Compatible With All Packaging Paper Types
FSC is a certification, not a specific type of paper.
Common packaging materials available with FSC certification include:
White card / SBS
Kraft paper
Paperboard
Greyboard
Corrugated board
Tissue and wrapping paper
Suitable for boxes, bags, labels, hangtags, inserts, sleeves, and more.
4. Works With Standard Printing & Finishing
FSC certified paper performs the same as regular paper and is compatible with:
Offset, screen, and flexo printing
Foil stamping
Embossing / debossing
Lamination (including eco-friendly options)
Printing quality and durability remain excellent.
Types of FSC CertificationÂ
1. FSC 100%
Made entirely from FSC-certified forest material.
2. FSC Recycled
Made entirely from recycled fiber.
3. FSC Mix (Most Common)
A mix of:
FSC forests
Controlled wood
Recycled fiber
Most packaging products on the market use FSC Mix.
Common Uses of FSC Certified Paper in Packaging
Folding cartons and rigid boxes
Gift boxes
Shopping bags
Hangtags and branding cards
Labels and sticker liners
Food packaging outer boxes
E-commerce shipping boxes
Wrapping paper and tissue
FSC packaging helps brands communicate sustainability while complying with global sourcing requirements.
FAQ
1. Does FSC certification mean the paper is 100% eco-friendly?
FSC ensures responsible forest management, not zero environmental impact—but it is the most recognized global standard for sustainable sourcing.
2. Does FSC affect the paper’s appearance or quality?
Not at all. FSC is a certification, and the material behaves the same as non-FSC paper.
3. Can any company print the FSC logo on packaging?
No.
Only factories with FSC Chain-of-Custody (CoC) certification can legally print the logo.
4. Does a brand need FSC certification to use FSC packaging?
No.
The supplier or manufacturer needs the certification—not the brand.