Sustainability isn’t a buzzword for our team. For over 40 years it’s been part of our core values and responsibility and continues to do so. As a supplier of high-quality papers and print materials since 1977, we know our choices have an impact, and we want to help our customers make informed ones, too.

You’ve probably noticed terms like FSC, PEFC, or ISO Certified popping up when either talking to us directly, visiting our website or just generally shopping for paper... but what do they actually mean?

We're here to break down some of the most common paper certifications and why they matter in print and packaging.

 

FSC® – Forest Stewardship Council

The FSC® certification is one of the most recognised and trusted when it comes to responsible forestry. When a product carries the FSC label, it means it comes from forests that are managed responsibly: protecting biodiversity, local communities, and workers’ rights.

There are three main FSC labels:

• FSC® 100% – all the materials come from FSC-certified forests.

• FSC® Mix – made using a blend of FSC-certified, recycled, and controlled wood.

• FSC® Recycled – made entirely from recycled materials.

Why it matters: It ensures your paper choices support ethical forestry, not deforestation.

 

PEFC – Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification

Similar to FSC®, PEFC is an international non-profit that promotes sustainable forest management. It works with smaller or family-owned forests around the world, ensuring responsible practices and traceability.

Why it matters: PEFC helps ensure sustainability at a more local scale, often supporting smallholders and family-owned forests.

 

Forest Carbon – Carbon Balanced Paper

Carbon Balanced Paper is a powerful initiative that offsets the carbon emissions associated with the production and distribution of paper. By choosing carbon balanced stock through Forest Carbon (or initiatives like the World Land Trust), emissions are calculated and then offset through conservation projects that protect threatened forests.

Why it matters: It gives you a way to reduce the carbon footprint of your printed materials while supporting meaningful environmental projects.

 

ISO Certifications – Quality and Environmental Standards

There are several ISO (International Organisation for Standardisation) certifications to be aware of:

• ISO 9001 – relates to quality management. It ensures consistent processes, customer focus, and continual improvement.
• ISO 14001 – focuses on environmental management systems. It helps businesses reduce their environmental impact through structured goals and practices.
• ISO 12647 – specific to printing, covering colour consistency and print quality standards.

Why it matters: ISO-certified suppliers are held to high standards — it means consistency, accountability, and trust.

 

Why This All Matters at Clyde

As a company we have both ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications and are FCS and PEFC certified (something we’re all very proud of!)

We stock a wide range of certified papers, from FSC® and PEFC options, to carbon balanced ranges, to materials made from 100% post-consumer waste. If you’re working on a project and want to align with your own environmental goals or your clients’, we can help guide you to the right choice.

Whether it’s for luxury packaging, sustainable print collateral, or everyday office needs, ethical sourcing and sustainability are never an afterthought here, they’re built into what we do and have been since 1977.

 

Let’s Talk Paper

Have questions about certified stock? Need help finding the right balance between sustainability and finish?

Get in touch, we’re always happy to do the paperwork.