Some of Australia’s largest retailers and manufacturers recently gathered at HVP Plantations in Victoria for the FSC® Forest Walk event, gaining firsthand experience of FSC-certified forestry in action.
The event provided a unique opportunity to see firsthand the sustainable forestry requirements under which FSC-certified products are sourced and engage with those who uphold these standards. With over 1.1 million hectares of FSC-certified forest and more than 260 FSC-certified organisations across Australia, the commitment to responsible forestry continues to grow.
HVP Plantations, the first-ever FSC-certified forestry organisation in Australia, celebrated 20 years of FSC certification in 2024. As the event’s host, HVP showcased the robust environmental stewardship practices that underpin FSC certification, including fire management, native forest care, and plantation thinning operations designed to maintain forest health.
Industry leaders experience
Representatives from leading Australian companies, including Woolworths, Coles, Essity and Kimberly-Clark, attended the event to deepen their understanding of how FSC certification supports sustainable supply chains.
“Understanding the FSC system in a real-world setting was an invaluable experience,” said Julian Westcott, Account Manager at Kimberley-Clark Professional
“Seeing firsthand the commitment of forest managers to responsible practices gives us even greater confidence in the materials we source. It strengthens our ability to make informed decisions and communicate the importance of FSC certification internally and to our customers.”
Coles Own Brand Lead Sustainable Packaging Manager Emma Buchanan says being on the ground and speaking directly with the HVP Plantations team allowed a much deeper appreciation for the rigorous work behind FSC certification.
“It’s one thing to read about sustainability standards, but witnessing them in action drives home why FSC certification is so important to our business and the products we offer consumers,” she said.
FSC certification matters
Forests are vital to Australia’s environment, economy, and communities, providing critical ecosystem services, livelihoods, and resources. FSC certification upholds the highest standards of responsible forest management – safeguarding biodiversity, respecting the rights of First Nations Peoples, workers, and local communities, and ensuring forests can continue to provide essential materials and services for generations to come.
“As the demand for forest-friendly products grows, FSC-certified forests provide a solution that balances environmental conservation, social responsibility, and economic viability,” said FSC ANZ CEO Melanie Robertson.
“The presence of so many leading organisations [at the event] highlights the critical role businesses play in supporting responsible forestry.”