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Buy a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified wood or paper product

Why This is Green

Here's why to bother seeking out The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) seal when buying a paper or wood product: FSC is an independent, non-governmental, not-for-profit organization established to promote the responsible management of the world’s forests. The organization provides a certification system for responsible forestry. If a product is FSC certified, it means that wood or paper has been sourced from a forest that:

* prohibits conversion of natural forests or other habitat around the world
* prohibits the use of highly hazardous pesticides around the world
* prohibits the cultivation of genetically modified trees (GMOs)
* respects the right of indigenous peoples around the world

The organization also connects with each certified operation at least once a year. If they're not compliant, their certificate is withdrawn. Keep in mind that FSC has nothing to do with if the paper has been recycled; it's about forest management. In some senses, it's like USDA organic, but non-governmental and for forests. Well worth supporting.

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How To

Wood and paper that come from FSC certified forests tends to be clearly marked. Read packaging when shopping to find it.

Think small: there are FSC certified versions of everything from office paper to greeting or business cards. Choose these.

Think big: if you're in the middle of a major construction project, make sure to inform the people you have hired to help you that FSC certified is a priority for you, and that any and all wood based products--from framing to flooring--needs to have the seal.