Year of publication 2009

Smallholders are critically important stewards of the world's forests. They own and manage 55 percent of forests in Europe and almost 25 percent in the global South. A top priority for FSC is to ensure that it embraces smallholder forestry. Currently, smallholders collectively manage nearly one fifth (18%) of the total area globally certified to the FSC Principles and Criteria, and this number is expected to increase in the coming years. This guide provides guidance on how a smallholder, can seek FSC certification and be rewarded for your long-term and careful management practices. It provides an overview of what FSC certification is and highlights examples of actual and potential economic, social and environmental benefits. This guide includes information on existing resources that can help a smallholder obtaining FSC certification. It also offers an insight into projects currently in development that could offer further attractive benefits for you to engage in FSC certification.