Abstract
The justification for environmental labeling of forest products appears simple: Labeling can match consumers wishing to buy products from forests managed in an environmentally acceptable fashion with forest owners willing to supply these products. But for labeling to work, consumers must understand, believe, and care about the information presented. This article presents the communication issues that may affect development of a market for environmentally improved forestry practices. The aim is to highlight potential questions surrounding forest product certification, from a vantage point provided by consumer research.