Enviro News Asia, Itulcachi — A pioneering example of integrated sustainable forestry has emerged in Ecuador, where wood manufacturer Novopan has achieved the country’s first FSC Project Certification, alongside FSC Verified Ecosystem Services Impact recognition.
The milestone demonstrates how Forest Stewardship Council standards can be applied across an entire value chain—from forest management to final construction—setting a precedent for the Andean region.
Novopan has held FSC Forest Management and Chain of Custody certifications since 2023, ensuring that its plantations are managed according to strict environmental and social standards and that materials remain traceable throughout production. With the new certifications, the company has now established a fully verifiable system linking sustainable forestry practices directly to finished architectural projects.
The FSC Project Certification was applied to the Pelikano Experience Center, a commercial space designed to demonstrate the use of responsibly sourced forest materials. The facility ensures that all wood products originate exclusively from certified sources under controlled procedures.
According to Novopan’s Forest Manager, Cristian Durán, certification enables transparency and credibility in sustainable practices.
He emphasized that responsible forest management is a long-term commitment that can now be clearly demonstrated through internationally recognized standards.
Beyond production, the initiative also incorporates ecosystem services through verified projects such as Laguna Roja in Zuleta and forest trails in Itulcachi near Quito. These efforts combine environmental conservation with community-based tourism, improving local livelihoods while preserving natural ecosystems.
The Laguna Roja project, developed in collaboration with local communities, has enhanced tourism management, infrastructure, and environmental protection. Community representative Mishell Recalde highlighted that the initiative has strengthened local organization and enabled more sustainable tourism practices.
Meanwhile, recreational forest trails in Itulcachi provide safe access for visitors while maintaining ecological integrity, demonstrating how conservation and productive forestry can coexist.
Karla Salvador, National Director of FSC Ecuador, stated that the case reflects a comprehensive application of FSC standards, integrating forest management, industrial processing, and ecosystem services into a coherent system.
The initiative also underscores Ecuador’s growing role in sustainable forestry and construction, positioning the country within the global movement toward responsible resource management and climate-conscious development. (*)
