FSC membership and FSC certification are often confused. Both are ways to support the work of FSC.

FSC is governed by its members. Each member, whether organisational or individual, represents their interest based on their professional activities. The diversity of interests is reflected in the three chambers structure that forms the membership: economic, environmental and social. Everybody who supports the idea of improved forest management around the world can become an FSC member.

As a member of FSC, you have the right to participate and vote in the General Assembly, and the responsibility to take an active part in elections and FSC charges a compulsory membership fee.

FSC certification of your business shows that you comply with the highest social and environmental standards on the market. This gives you credibility with customers and business partners as well as financial institutions and watchdog organizations. FSC certification helps to protect your brand and reputation and it allows you to access highly environmentally sensitive markets. Increasingly governments and others specify FSC in their purchase policy