Liz Butcher, Board Director at Star Group, reflects on this milestone, “Earning FSC certification is more than a symbol—it’s a clear statement of our values and a critical step in our long-term sustainability strategy. Customers, partners, and stakeholders can trust that when they work with Star Group, they are supporting a business that prioritises the planet and people.”
Driven by changing consumer demands and environmental regulations, the packaging industry is shifting from plastics to fibre-based alternatives as a more sustainable option. This shift encourages the use of forest-based materials that, when responsibly sourced and thoughtfully designed, can serve as renewable, biodegradable, and recyclable alternatives.
The pulp and paper sector already accounts for a substantial portion of industrial wood use globally, and rising demand for fibre can exacerbate risks including deforestation, illegal harvesting, ecosystem degradation, and impacts on the rights and livelihoods of forest-dependent communities. By sourcing FSC-certified materials, Star Group is actively supporting responsible forest management that protects biodiversity and respects the rights of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. This commitment reinforces supply chain transparency and chain of custody, ensuring that forest products come from responsibly managed forests. In doing so, Star Group helps safeguard forests and communities while advancing a more sustainable future for fibre-based packaging.
Becoming FSC Certified is a key part of Star Group’s wider sustainability efforts, alongside its Low CO2 Certification from the Carbon Reduction Institute (achieved in 2023) and membership in Sedex, which enhances supply chain transparency and ethical labour practices. On this achievement, Nicholas Payne, Head of ESG & Quality at Star Group, noted that, “Sustainability isn’t just about intentions—it’s about measurable actions and visibility across the entire supply chain. From raw materials to end-of-life disposal, certifications like FSC ensure we meet the highest standards of environmental and social responsibility.”
FSC is proud to welcome Star Group to our community of certified organisations, united by a shared commitment to responsible sourcing and forest stewardship.