Unlocking sustainable forestry: RSB calls for pilot organisations to implement Forestry Residue Guidance
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Following last year’s approval by RSB’s Assembly of Delegates (AoD) of the RSB Guidance on the Harvesting of Forestry Residues for a pilot period, RSB is now seeking forward-thinking organisations to take part in piloting this innovative framework.
Designed to balance environmental conservation with economic viability, this guidance offers a groundbreaking approach to sustainable forestry and is an integral component of the RSB Woody Biomass Standard Amendment. As such, the pilot phase is essential to understanding how this guidance can deliver real-world impact by promoting sustainable forest management practices, particularly with regards to the harvesting of forestry residues and the maintenance and enhancement of soil carbon levels.
To meet this goal, RSB is actively calling for pioneering organisations to volunteer to implement the guidance as part of this pilot initiative.
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Why pilot the RSB Forestry Residue Guidance?
Forestry residues, if harvested through unsustainable practices, can lead to soil degradation, diminished soil carbon levels, and a host of environmental challenges such the loss of biodiversity values and ecosystem services.
In order to address these challenges and ensure that RSB-certified companies operate at the highest levels of sustainability, the RSB Secretariat developed – in partnership with various forestry expert organisations – the RSB Guidance on the Harvesting of Forestry Residues, which constitutes Section 3 of the RSB Woody Biomass Standard Amendment, establishing a clear framework for the responsible harvesting of forestry residues.
The main elements to ensure the harvesting of forestry residues is conducted in a sustainable are:
- Ensuring soil health: The guidance prioritises leaving sufficient residues to enhance soil carbon accumulation and preserve soil integrity.
- Promoting biodiversity: It aligns forestry practices with ecosystem conservation, reducing harmful impacts on biodiversity.
- Balancing sustainability and profitability: By adopting this guidance, organisations can demonstrate leadership in managing natural resources while meeting market and regulatory expectations.
The pilot period for the implementation of this guidance document allows organisations to contribute directly to shaping sustainable forestry practices globally while gaining access to RSB’s robust certification system, technical expertise, and global recognition as a sustainability leader.
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Why participate in the pilot?
- Demonstrate your organisation is pioneer in the forest industry: By participating in the pilot, your organisation will showcase its commitment to innovative sustainability practices and position itself as a leader in sustainable forestry management.
- Influence the shaping of the RSB certification system: Your experiences and feedback during the pilot phase will directly inform revisions to the guidance, ensuring it is practical, effective, and impactful.
- Access expert support: RSB will provide technical support and resources to help your organisation successfully implement the guidance and navigate the certification process.
- Strengthen market credibility: Participation will align your organisation with RSB’s globally trusted certification system, enhancing your sustainability credentials and reputation.
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How to get involved?
RSB is inviting organisations from across the forestry, bioeconomy, and related sectors to join this pilot initiative. Whether you’re directly involved in forestry operations, the production of bio-based materials, or an adjacent sector, this is your chance to lead the way in responsible resource management.
To express your interest or learn more about participating in the pilot phase, please contact us at [email protected] by the 28th of February.
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