Ethiopia’s bamboo certification to transform forestry, global markets

Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone in the forestry sector with its recent certification under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for its bamboo resources. This certification not only unlocks access to global markets but also fosters sustainable practices and supports economic and environmental growth, positioning Ethiopia as a leader in responsible forestry management. Annah Agasha, the East Africa Project Manager at FSC Africa, provided insights into the implications of this certification during a CNBC Africa interview. Agasha highlighted the positive impacts of the FSC certification on Ethiopia's forestry sector, emphasizing the opportunities it creates for Ethiopian stakeholders in the global market, particularly in the bamboo and non-timber forest product sectors. Ethiopia, known for its rich bamboo resources, plays a crucial role in the global bamboo market, with over 60% of the world's bamboo resources located in the country. Through the FSC certification, Ethiopia can now distinguish its forest products by labeling them with the FSC brand, signifying responsible forest management and chain of custody certification. This labeling ensures traceability of resources, assuring customers of the ethical sourcing of the products and safeguarding against deforestation and forest degradation. The FSC certification not only benefits Ethiopia but also sets a precedent for other African countries to adopt responsible forest management practices. With over 10 million forest hectares certified under FSC across Africa, Agasha urged other nations to embrace the FSC system to address pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social issues. By joining the FSC framework, African countries can contribute to the sustainable management of forests and protect their valuable natural resources. Moreover, Ethiopia's FSC certification opens doors for stakeholders in the European market, notably in compliance with the European Union Deforestation Free Regulation. The EU's stringent regulations mandate sustainable practices for products entering the European market, and the FSC certification aligns well with these requirements. Agasha underscored the FSC's readiness in assisting Ethiopian stakeholders in meeting the EUDR standards, emphasizing elements like risk management, due diligence, and geolocation. By incorporating these additional components, Ethiopian exporters can enhance their market access and ensure the legality and sustainability of their products. In conclusion, Ethiopia's bamboo certification under the FSC sets a positive trajectory for the country's forestry sector, paving the way for sustainable growth, environmental preservation, and increased market opportunities. The collaboration between FSC and Ethiopian stakeholders signifies a commitment to responsible forestry practices and reflects Ethiopia's dedication to becoming a global leader in sustainable resource management.