Special Report: Fundraising 101 Direct Mail

It’s also important to understand the two certification options for paper:

• The Sustainable Forestry Initiative was developed by the American Forest and Paper Association. Members of SFI commit to ensuring the sustainability and health of our forests by adhering to the principles of the program, and by educating loggers and foresters in best management practices. In order to be certified, an SFI program participant must undergo a thorough review of its operations by an accredited audit firm.

• Since 1933, the Forest Stewardship Council has overseen a global initiative to promote sustainable forestry. Headquartered in Bonn, Germany, the council sets the criteria and standards that address economic, social and environmental concerns. FSC certification has strong recognition throughout the world, and it strives to offer its members a “chain of custody” certification process between member companies.

Will 2009 be a “Happy New Year”? Right now it looks uncertain, but we do know that changes and challenges often go hand in hand with opportunity. Smart direct marketers will keep on mailing and, no matter what, will remain attuned to best practices that control costs, match paper to message and work “green.”