Oberflex's FSC® commitment

FSC® at Oberflex : understanding, choosing and moving forward with confidence

Today, interior design and fit-out projects increasingly include environmental requirements. Among the most frequently requested labels is FSC® certification, often referenced in tenders, specifications and CSR commitments.

But what does FSC® actually mean? Does it always mean “100% certified wood”? How does it apply to decorative or technical panels? And above all, how does Oberflex support its clients on this topic?

FSC® : a recognized benchmark for responsible forest management

FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council) is an international certification system designed to promote responsible and sustainable forest management. It guarantees wood traceability, compliance with environmental and social standards, and the legality of sourcing. For specifiers, architects, contractors and project owners, FSC® provides a clear framework for selecting materials from responsible supply chains.

A common misconception : FSC® does not always mean “100% FSC”

This is probably the most important point to clarify. In the world of engineered wood products and technical panels, several FSC® certification categories exist.

FSC® 100%
The product is made entirely from wood sourced from FSC®-certified forests. This is the highest level of certification, but it can also be the most difficult to obtain for certain species or product configurations.

FSC® MIX
This is currently the most common certification category on the market. The product combines different FSC®-approved sources :

- FSC®-certified wood
- Controlled Wood
- In some cases, recycled materials

The percentage indicated corresponds to the share of FSC®-certified material within the product. For example : FSC® MIX 70%.

FSC® Controlled Wood
Controlled Wood complies with strict requirements regarding legality and the exclusion of unacceptable sources. While it does not originate from FSC®-certified forests, it remains a monitored and traceable raw material.

What Oberflex offers in practice

At Oberflex, transparency is essential. We believe in clearly explaining what is realistically achievable rather than promising standardized solutions.

Our manufacturing facility is FSC® Chain of Custody certified. This means we are authorized to manufacture and sell FSC®-certified panels, supported by full documentary traceability.

Most of our product ranges can therefore be supplied as FSC® MIX, subject to :

- the selected wood species
- the panel construction
- project volumes
- required lead times
- material availability at the time of enquiry

The FSC® content depends on both the veneer species and the panel components. Some configurations can exceed 70% FSC®-certified content.

A tailor-made approach aligned with project requirements

Every project is unique. For this reason, the FSC® certification percentage may vary depending on the selected configuration.

Certain solutions can exceed 70% FSC®-certified content. In many commercial, hospitality, cultural and high-end residential projects, this level fully meets the environmental expectations expressed in project specifications.

In other words, there is no single answer, only the answer that best fits your project.

Available species and practical support

Several wood species are regularly available through FSC®-certified supply chains, including : Aniegré, Alder, Birch, Oak, Maple, Eucalyptus, Figured Fraké, Ash, Beech, Makoré, Cherry, Walnut, Elm, Sapelli, Sycamore and Zebrano.

As availability may vary depending on market conditions and sourcing opportunities, our teams systematically verify feasibility for each individual request.

Why do architects and project owners request FSC®?

Beyond the label itself, FSC® requirements generally reflect three key objectives :

1. Ensuring a responsible project
Choosing a certified solution means integrating a material sourced from a monitored and responsible supply chain.

2. Meeting tender requirements
Many specifications and tender documents now require materials with recognized traceability.

3. Demonstrating a credible environmental commitment
FSC® is a widely recognized benchmark, understood and trusted throughout the construction and interior fit-out industries.

Our commitment: clarity, reliability and support

At Oberflex, we understand that environmental considerations require both technical rigor and clear communication. That is why we support every client in :

- identifying the appropriate level of FSC® certification
- verifying compatibility with the selected wood species
- recommending the most relevant technical and economic solution
- providing the documentation required for the project

In summary

Requesting FSC® certification does not necessarily mean seeking a “100% FSC®” solution. In most interior fit-out projects, FSC® MIX certification is often the most appropriate option : demanding, traceable, industrially realistic and well suited to project requirements.

At Oberflex, we put this commitment at the service of design, material excellence and project feasibility.

Do you have a project with FSC® requirements?

Our sales and technical teams are available to help you identify the most suitable solution based on your aesthetic, technical and environmental objectives.

Learn more about FSC®