Contribution by FSC-International The first day of formal FSC General Assembly business got underway today in Cape Town as almost 300 delegates (many of them carrying proxies) from more than 70 countries gathered to vote on motions.
Before the voting process began, FSC Executive Director André de Freitas started the day by addressing delegates with a business report on the organization.
Mr. de Freitas outlined how FSC AC is moving forward with an increase in membership growth, particularly with members from the Global South. He also highlighted how the organization has improved the delineation of responsibilities since the last General Assembly with the creation of Accreditation Services International (ASI) and FSC Global Development (GD). Improving financial management and the generation of revenues from trademark services were also outlined as strong steps forward since the last General Assembly of Members.
Speaking on developments at FSC IC, de Freitas pointed to ways in which the organization is making efforts to strengthen the FSC system including the Policy & Standards unit, national standards, and strengthening communication with the NI network. He also highlighted recent improvements in overall FSC communications efforts including a refined corporate image and new website with improved capabilities.
De Freitas also pointed to the considerable efforts currently in progress by Global Development to better protect the integrity of the FSC trademark and logo.