Chain of Custody certification allows companies to use the FSC label on products that contain forest-based materials, assuring consumers that these materials come from responsibly managed forests. It mandates strict tracking procedures whenever FSC-certified and non-certified materials are mixed, ensuring all processing steps comply with FSC standards.

This certification is essential for businesses aiming to access eco-conscious markets or to meet public and private procurement policies that require sustainably sourced materials. Notable frameworks recognizing FSC include the EU Ecolabel (e.g., for furniture) and the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED rating system, which awards credits for the inclusion of FSC-certified materials.