ASC Cartons secures FSC Certification to enhance sustainable corrugated packaging supply

UK – Bespoke corrugated manufacturer ASC Cartons Ltd has earned Forest Stewardship Council certification under code FSC-C218342, enabling full traceability of its materials to sustainably managed forests. 

This step allows the company to track the chain of custody for wood fibers used in its packaging products, ensuring compliance with global standards for responsible sourcing.

James Palfrey-Smith, General Manager at ASC Cartons, described the achievement as a natural progression in the firm’s development. 

He noted that customers frequently request options with lower environmental impact, making proof of sustainable material origins a key priority. 

Palfrey-Smith thanked the internal team for their efforts in securing the certification, which involved rigorous audits and process adjustments.

The certification covers ASC Cartons’ range of custom corrugated solutions, including boxes and displays for industries such as food and consumer goods. 

Company records show that it now sources over 95% of its paperboard from verified sustainable suppliers, reducing reliance on unregulated timber. 

This change supports broader efforts to cut deforestation risks in packaging production, where paper-based materials account for a significant portion of global wood use.

In a related development, Diamond Packaging announced in early 2025 that it sourced 99% of its paperboard from certified origins last year, aiming for 99.8% this year through expanded FSC partnerships. 

The firm, a major player in folding cartons, reported processing more than 1 million tons of certified materials annually, with costs averaging US$0.15 per unit for FSC-labeled stock. 

Such initiatives help maintain supply chain integrity amid rising demand for eco-friendly packaging.

A report by the Forest Stewardship Council highlights that certified paper packaging prevents illegal logging and preserves biodiversity across 210 million hectares of monitored forests worldwide. 

Businesses adopting these standards often see procurement expenses stabilize, with FSC materials priced at a 5-10% premium over conventional options, around US$1,200 per ton for corrugated board versus US$1,100 for uncertified equivalents.

ASC Cartons plans to integrate the FSC label on client shipments starting next quarter, targeting a 20% increase in orders from eco-conscious brands. 

Palfrey-Smith indicated that the firm invested US$150,000 in certification preparation, including staff training and supplier verifications, to meet the deadline. 

This positions the manufacturer to serve growing markets in Europe and North America, where regulations mandate sustainable sourcing for certain exports.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE