FSC extends consultation period for draft Congo Basin Standard

The intent of extending the consultation period is to allow FSC National Initiatives to conduct workshops in the four countries involved and give greater time to those at the regional level to consult their constituents on the draft. During this time, several FSC accredited certification bodies will conduct field tests of the standard, with an emphasis on engaging local communities in the process.

The sub-regional standard forms a harmonizing framework for national standards in each of the four countries: Cameroon, the Republic of Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Gabon.

Each of the FSC National Initiatives involved are further refining these indicators to produce national versions of the standard, accompanied by annexes of relevant national laws, lists of endangered species and other relevant information.

The consultation process focuses on identifying significant differences at the national level so that any indicators can be adapted accordingly. Once approved, the regional standard will replace the five Generic Standards from FSC accredited certification bodies' currently in use across the region.

The Congo Basin Sub-Regional Standards Development Group that developed the draft is a chamber balanced Working Group with representatives from each country, along with four regional representatives.

Interested stakeholders may submit their comments on the draft to Richard Robertson, FSC Policy Manager. For enquiries on the draft standard, please contact Mr. Robertson or the FSC endorsed National Initiatives.

Congo Basin Sub-Regional Standard Draft
Proposal and workplan to meet process requirements

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