Retailers in Australia and New Zealand are participating in the Forest Week, a global initiative by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This program is in response to consumer demand for ‘eco-reliable’ supply chains.

With the theme ‘Do one thing for forests’, Forest Week will span from September 20 to 26. Major retailers involved include Big W, Hallmark, Officeworks, Coles, and Aldi.

“Together, our community of certificate holders, members, licence holders and conscious consumers is driving responsible forestry to ensure forests thrive for generations to come,” said Melanie Robertson, CEO of FSC Australia and New Zealand. 

“FSC Forest Week is about turning awareness into action.”

She said consumers choosing FSC-certified products, which are sourced and stocked responsibly by businesses, along with the forestry responsibility of the forest manager, are intended to protect forests as well as the people and wildlife that depend on them.

In addition to purchasing these products, consumers are encouraged to share social media messages using the Forest Week hashtag to amplify the message.

The FSC Forest Week is part of the FSC International, a global non-profit organisation, working with several companies in the region, including Bunnings, The Warehouse, and Woolworths, through the FSC promotional license holder program to promote sustainable forestry practices.