FSC Publishes New Trademark Standard for Certificate Holders

Walmart announced that it has reached an agreement with SunPower to have the commercial energy provider install solar systems at 19 stores and two distribution centers in Illinois. As part of the project, a mix of rooftop and ground-mount solar systems are expected to account for 23 megawatts, with start of construction targeted for the first half of 2019. This commitment moves Walmart closer to its 2025 goal of supplying its global operations with 50 percent renewable energy. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator, the amount of anticipated annual carbon offset by this initiative will be equal to the amount of carbon sequestered by over 24,000 acres of U.S. forest in one year – the size of Elgin, Ill. Walmart is financing the solar projects through a power purchase agreement (PPA) arranged by SunPower, allowing Walmart to buy power at competitive prices and hedge against future utility rate increases with no upfront capital costs. Click read more below for additional detail.

“Paper-based packaging made from recycled fibers is a key part of the circular economy and exemplifies why paper has a great environmental story to tell. As a leading technical association in this sector, we welcome RPTA to the Two Sides network of companies,” said Phil Riebel, Two Sides North America President. “RPTA is pleased to join Two Sides North America, as we are committed to similar objectives,” says Paul Schutes, Executive Director, RPTA. “Both organizations promote the responsible, sustainable production and use of our members’ products.”

Last month, FSC International announced that the effective dates have been delayed to September 1, 2021 for the revised Chain of Custody standard (FSC-STD-40-004 V3-1 Chain of Custody Certification) and revised Chain of Custody Evaluations standard (FSC-STD-20-011 V4-2 Chain of Custody Evaluations). The transition period has also been delayed and extended to December 31, 2022. These changes were made in consideration of the disruptions to onsite audits and auditing schedules caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, and to allow more time for FSC International to prepare materials for Certification Bodies and Certificate Holders to support a smooth transition.