The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) has appointed Dr Subhra Bhattacharjee as its new Director General, effective yesterday – October 1 2024, replacing long-time CEO Kim Carstensen, who has held the post since 2012.
In a media statement obtained by FSC, the gold standard for certification, Dr Bhattacharjee brings 20 years of experience in public policy, climate change, and sustainable development programming, where she has worked for the United Nations and the Reserve Bank of India.
Dr Bhattacharjee holds a Master of Philosophy in Economics from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Economics from Iowa State University.
“Subhra’s expertise and experience in international development and leadership will serve her well as she steps in at this critical juncture in FSC’s organisational growth,” according to Stuart Valintine, Chair of the FSC International Board of Directors, who said Dr Bhattacharjee’s vision aligns with FSC’s mission and future goals, aiming to leverage its membership, network and collaborative partnerships to strengthen global forest stewardship for protection and sustainable management of the world’s forests.
“It is an honour and a privilege to join FSC as Director General,” Dr Bhattacharjee said. “We must act to mitigate the ongoing global climate and biodiversity crises, and the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of forests with respect for forest-dependent communities.”
“In this context, today, FSC’s mission and role are more relevant than ever. I look forward to working with the whole FSC community and partners to maximise the contribution of forests to sustainable development.”
About FSC International
Dating back to the early 1990s, FSC is the world’s first and most recognised eco-label. More than 200 million hectares of forests and 50,000 chains of custody holders now support responsible management certification via timber certification.
In May, Wood Central revealed that FSC (and PEFC) certification plays a crucial role in ensuring that timber supply chains are “ready” for the rollout of the European Union’s deforestation regulation (the EUDR), which is slated to come into effect December 30, 2024.
- For more information, click here for FSC International’s official statement on the new appointment.
