Open Knowledge (FSC OK)

The aim of this white paper is to provide a working definition for the concept of systemic impacts as well as to gather and synthesize the evidence of systemic impacts of ISEAL Alliance standards. This can help Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) and their stakeholders become more effective in improving the enabling environment for adopting sustainable production practices. The paper do not intend to give an exhaustive list but provide numerous examples that represent and illustrate the systemic impacts of VSS. The insights documented are based on a review of the relevant literature available and selected cases based on interviews with VSS and/or stakeholders involved, including Bonsucro (Latin America), GCP (Vietnam), MSC (Asia Pacific) and LEAF Marque (Isle of Jersey).