In all we received 30 submissions from a highly diverse range of stakeholders and interests, reflecting the broad range of voices that FSC hopes to bring together in discussions regarding responsible stewardship of forests.The Standards Development Group (SDG) is now reviewing the feedback received and developing a work plan for moving forward.
A number of ways are being looked at, including development of discussion papers, engaging experts on key technical questions as well as involving experts and stakeholders in discussions with SDG through workshops and discussions.Announcements about next steps and the ways that people can be involved will be made in early November.
A current timeline of the standards development process is available athttp://au.fsc.org/national-standard-development.300.htm This may be updated in the near future pending further announcements.
On a related note, work is currently ongoing with our Indigenous Engagement Project lead by the Aboriginal Carbon Fund (AbCF). AbCF is speaking with a range of stakeholders at the moment to prepare a report for the SDG and the formation of an Indigenous Working Group (IWG).
If you have any queries please contact Daniel: dmackey@fscaustralia.com