Strengthening Forest Stewardship in the United States: An updated Forest Stewardship Standard Approved.
Forests in the United States are at a critical moment. While they remain among the most productive and diverse in the world, they are under increasing pressure from climate-driven disturbances, development, and the growing demand for wood-based products, which could increase the risks of unsustainable harvesting practices and illegal logging, all linked to long and complex supply chains. The approval of the FSC Forest Stewardship Standard for US Version 2.0, officially published on January 1, 2026, represents an important step toward addressing these challenges—strengthening forest conservation while supporting resilient, economically viable forest management.
The FSC US Forest Stewardship Standard 2.0 is the result of seven years of shared work, public consultation, and collaboration with FSC International, involving forest owners, Indigenous representatives, environmental NGOs, labour groups, scientists, and industry stakeholders. As Amy Clark Eagle, FSC US Director of Science and Certification, notes, “the revision aligns global consistency with U.S.-specific priorities.” FSC US President Sarah Billig underscores that this collaborative process helps ensure the standard is both trusted and practical.
With publication on January 1, 2026, an effective date of April 1, 2026, and a transition period through September 30, 2027, the FSC US Forest Stewardship Standard 2.0 offers forest managers and partners a clear path forward.