We use the HCV approach – identifying, managing and monitoring – in our certification standards (which influence FSC-certified forests or products) and more generally as a resource for conservation planning. FSC seeks to maintain, enhance and promote the importance of these values.

Paying attention to HCVs does not mean you have to turn everything into a conservation area. For example, some global retailers and banks have integrated HCV requirements into their procurement and investment policies.

A crucial part of HCVs is ensuring activity in forests does not have a negative impact on biodiversity – that is, the diversity within and between species, and the ecosystem as a whole, including forests. For FSC, maintaining and implementing the management of biodiversity and HCVs go hand in hand.

HCVs are applicable to any operation, big or small. As a small or community producer, you can ensure that your current activities are not affecting the overall biodiversity of your area, and find out how HCVs apply to you.

The guidance documents below provide a good starting point to implement the HCV approach in your own operations.