After the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio failed to stop deforestation, a coalition of environmentalists, businesses, and community leaders founded the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) in 1994. Their goal: to create a voluntary certification system that promotes environmentally sound, socially beneficial, and economically viable forest management.

Today, FSC is the world’s most credible sustainable forestry solution, trusted by NGOs, consumers, and businesses alike to help promote healthy and resilient forests, for all, forever.  And the FSC Indigenous Foundation ensures that Indigenous Peoples’ voices and leadership remain central to this global movement.

The FSC PIPC was established in 2013 to ensure Indigenous Peoples’ voices are represented at the highest levels of FSC decision-making. Composed of Indigenous representatives from all regions, the PIPC advises the FSC Board on policies and standards, strengthening Indigenous Peoples’ engagement in FSC-certified forest stewardship. By valuing Indigenous knowledge, rights, and traditional practices, the PIPC helps uphold FSC’s commitment to ethical, inclusive, and sustainable forest management.

FSC offers multiple pathways for Indigenous Peoples to engage and lead:

• Certification & Economic Opportunities: Strengthen livelihoods through sustainable, ethical forest businesses.
• Membership: Ensure Indigenous voices help shape FSC’s direction and decisions.
• Consultations: Participate in open consultations and technical working groups on forestry standards.

Learn more about FSC and Indigenous Peoples.