SCA Retains FSC Certification Following Negotiations with Sami Association

SCA has decided to keep its Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification after productive discussions with the Swedish Sami Association (SSR). This decision marks a significant shift from earlier plans to pause the certification, which had provoked public protests regarding SCA's logging practices and concerns over indigenous rights. Anders Erling Fjällås, vice chairman of SSR, emphasized the importance of corporate accountability in his statement: "It should be very important for such a large company to show that it takes responsibility."

The dialogue between SCA and SSR focused on specific challenges surrounding certification standards, highlighting differing interpretations and methodologies in applying these standards. Fjällås noted that despite some misunderstandings, the conversations were aimed at seeking solutions satisfactory to both organizations.

This decision comes in the wake of protests from local Sami communities, particularly from the Ohredahke Sami village, which expressed grievances about SCA not adhering to previously established agreements necessary for the sustainability of reindeer herding. The community has strongly pushed back against SCA's forestry practices. Fjällås stated that while the initial decision by SCA to consider pausing certification was unexpected, its current resolve to maintain certification can foster better relationships moving forward.