Timber Tracking is based on the method used for human paternity tests – DNA Fingerprinting.

DNA samples are taken from trees at the point of harvest, and again from the same logs (according to Chain-of-Custody documentation) further down the supply chain.

If the two samples match, the Chain-of-Custody is verified intact.

The advantage of this service is its compatibility with existing Chain-of-Custody systems already adopted by many timber producing countries and the timber industry. Rather than try to replace existing systems, compatibility offers:

• Simple, rapid and cost-effective field implementation;
• Minimal disruption to existing forestry or factory operations;
• Support of voluntary certification systems;
• Validation of mandatory documentation systems.

Although document systems remain susceptible to fraud, DNA Verified™ Timber Tracking detects enough fraud to make it un-economical.

This system is currently applied to the Certisource Legality Verification System. It is used to validate the paper-based Chain-of-Custody providing unrivalled assurance of the legal origin of the harvested timber, whilst ensuring that the Certisource service is competitively priced.Learn more.