More European retailers now ask suppliers for FSC-certified paper. This guide explains what FSC actually certifies, where it applies to your labelling, and how to order it correctly.
- FSC certifies, via chain of custody, that paper and cardboard come from responsibly managed forests (not a self-declaration).
- Increasingly a retailer requirement; a sustainability story on the hang tag without greenwashing risk.
- Applies to paper-based items: hang tags, swing tags, paper labels, product cards and cartons.
- Carrying the FSC mark requires certified stock, a certified chain of custody and rule-compliant logo use.
What FSC certifies
The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certifies that paper and cardboard come from responsibly managed forests, tracked through a chain of custody from forest to finished product. It is a credibility-backed sustainability claim, not a self-declared one.
Why brands ask for it
FSC is increasingly a retailer requirement and a clean way to support a brand’s sustainability story on the most visible paper item a customer holds — the hang tag. It signals responsible sourcing without greenwashing risk.
Where it applies
FSC applies to paper-based items: hang tags, swing tags, paper labels, product cards and cartons. Reel Ofset offers FSC-certified material for paper-based printing — ask for it on your project.
How to order FSC correctly
To carry the FSC mark, the item must be produced on certified stock through a certified chain of custody, and the logo use follows FSC rules. Tell us you need an FSC claim up front so the right stock and labelling are used.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly does FSC certify?
That paper and cardboard come from responsibly managed forests, tracked through a chain of custody from forest to finished product.
Which items does FSC apply to?
Paper-based items: hang tags, swing tags, paper labels, product cards and cartons.
How do I order FSC correctly?
Tell us you need an FSC claim up front so production uses certified stock and chain of custody, with rule-compliant logo use.