One of the world’s most challenging top leading positions has a new face: The FSC has appointed Mr. André de Freitas as Executive Director of the FSC International Center. Freitas will play a key role in ensuring system credibility and in carving out new directions for the development of the Forest Stewardship Council. Read more

For the first time in their 15 years' existence, the FSC's global principles and criteria for responsible forest management are undergoing a thorough and systematic review. A new draft is open for public consultation until 12 July 2008. You can review the new standard and provide your comments here 

Controlled wood certified companies may soon find that they need to adjust their practices: In order to ensure consistent implementation of the rules for controlled wood certification, the FSC has released detailed guidance. Clients audited by NEPCon should not expect any major change, as we were already following the approach now specified by the FSC. However, there are new requirements for companies using their own system for avoidance of controversial wood.  Read more 

NEPCon Asia - NEPCon's sixth daughter company - is now registered. Based in Krasnoyarsk in Siberia, NEPCon Asia will develop our services in the Eastern part of Russia as well as neighbouring countries. Read more

The FSC's new director André de Freitas will present his views and visions at this year's Global Paper Forum 9-10 June. The program features other interesting points as well: For example, participants will learn about hot topics such as climate neutrality of paper, and representatives of Tetra Pak and SCA will share their experience. It is also possible to participate in training on FSC rules relevant for the paper and printing sector. Go to Global Paper Forum

You still have time to join our next training course focusing on chain of custody auditing technique. The course will be held in Poland on June 16-18,and will be conducted in the English language. Read more

...that responsible management of forests is crucial to halt the loss of biodiversity in Europe? This is the message of a new report from the European Environmental Agency, EEA. Forests are important in biodiversity protection because they are host to a large part of Europe's wild species. Needless to say, the report itself carries the FSC label. Download EEA report