RUBBER NEWS

Key Updates on the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and Notes on FSC-STD-40-004 Certification

Posted on by content02.vinahugo
13
Oct

Representatives from the Vietnam Rubber Association (VRA) recently attended an online seminar titled “Key Updates on the EUDR and Key Considerations in FSC-STD-40-004 Certification”, jointly organized by DNV and the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

The event provided insights into FSC’s ongoing efforts to align its forest management and chain-of-custody standards with the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), while DNV experts shared practical notes on implementing FSC certification requirements in businesses.

FSC’s Alignment with EUDR Requirements

During the seminar, Ms. Vũ Thị Quế Anh, Country Director of FSC Vietnam, emphasized that FSC fully supports the implementation of the EUDR, and — together with over 170 organizations — has urged the EU not to delay its enforcement timeline.

FSC is an active member of the EUDR Multi-Stakeholder Platform and the Traceability and Smallholder Working Group, ensuring continuous adaptation to the regulation’s legal and social requirements.

FSC has confirmed that its standards already meet or exceed many EUDR legal and social criteria. To support certificate holders, FSC has launched self-learning tools and technical guidance to help businesses progressively adapt to EUDR compliance.

In July 2024, FSC is expected to announce the FSC EUDR Aligned Certification Framework, which includes:

  • The FSC Regulatory Module, and

  • The FSC Risk Assessment Framework, both aligned with EUDR principles.

The pilot program currently covers 20 countries (excluding Vietnam) and will expand after evaluation is complete.

Upcoming Launch of FSC Aligned Reporting for EUDR

FSC also plans to introduce the FSC Aligned Reporting for EUDR in October 2024 — a new reporting platformdesigned to:

  • Support companies in conducting comprehensive due diligence reporting,

  • Enable secure and unified data exchange across supply chains, and

  • Ensure compliance with the EU’s traceability and deforestation-free requirements.

FSC recommended six key steps companies should take to prepare for EUDR implementation:

  1. Compile an inventory of all goods and products covered by EUDR;

  2. Review the proposed requirements of the new FSC Regulatory Module;

  3. Assess existing due diligence systems against EUDR obligations;

  4. Collaborate with supply chain partners to align data and traceability efforts;

  5. Plan secure data exchange with business partners;

  6. Engage with certification bodies early to prepare for EUDR adaptation goals.

Key Notes from DNV on FSC-STD-40-004 Implementation

Mr. Huân Nguyễn, FSC Lead Auditor at DNV, presented key considerations for organizations applying FSC-STD-40-004 (Chain of Custody Certification), including:

  • Submission of Self-Assessment Reports for FSC’s Core Labour Requirements;

  • Proper use of the FSC Trademark — including logo, full name, acronym, and combined labeling on products and communication materials;

  • Preparation of Annual Volume Summaries and detailed purchase/sales records with FSC Claims clearly stated on invoices and delivery notes (e.g., FSC 100%, FSC Mix, FSC Recycled).

Companies must promptly notify their certification body of any changes related to the certification scope, such as:

  • Company name or address;

  • Legal representative or contact person (email, phone);

  • Factory, equipment, or production process modifications;

  • Changes in FSC product groups or registered species;

  • Additions/removals of sites under multi-site certification.

These measures ensure timely audits, data consistency, and effective maintenance of FSC certification validity.