Xylene, in collaboration with the Institute of Forest Technology of the University of Freiburg, has implemented a groundbreaking project to enhance the traceability of timber from the Black Forest. This case study showcases how Xylene’s digital product passports and advanced blockchain tracking technology have transformed the timber supply chain, ensuring trusted transparency and efficiency from the forest to the final palleted product.
The primary objective of the project was to establish a robust system for tracking timber logs from their origin in the Black Forest, through the sawmill, and up to the final product on pallets and ensuring secure and trustworthy data. This was achieved by registering the location of each log in the forest at the point of harvest, tagging them for identification, and documenting each stage of their journey on the blockchain.
Phase 1: Forest Registration and Tagging
The project commenced in a forest section in the Black Forest near Bad Rippoldsau-Schnapbach. Trees were selected by the local forester to be harvested and each felled tree was individually registered at its location through the Xylene mobile app. Using GPS technology, the exact coordinates of each log were recorded, providing a precise starting point for traceability.
Each log was then tagged with a unique identifier, allowing for seamless tracking throughout its lifecycle and coupling the registered data with the QR-code tag. The collected data was notarised on the Blockchain linked to Xylene to ensure tamper-proof information, whilst protecting confidential information.
Phase 2: Transportation and Sawmill Processing
Once tagged, the logs were transported to Rombach sawmill in Oppenau. Xylene’s tracking system monitored the transportation process, ensuring that the logs were accurately accounted for during transit. Upon arrival at the sawmill, each log was scanned, and its data was updated in the digital product passport.
At the sawmill, the logs were cut into specified lengths. During this process, each piece was tagged again, maintaining the continuity of traceability. These tagged logs were then sawn into various sizes and shapes, depending on the final product requirements.
Phase 3: Palletisation and Mass Balance Registration
The final phase involved assembling the sawn pieces onto pallets. Xylene’s technology registered the mass balance of the timber, ensuring that the volume and weight of the products were accurately recorded.
Each pallet was tagged, and all associated data were updated in the digital product passport, providing a comprehensive record from the forest to the finished product.
Results and Benefits
The collaboration with the University of Freiburg and Rombach demonstrated several key benefits:
- Enhanced Traceability: The project provided complete transparency of the timber supply chain, from the forest to the final product. This level of traceability is crucial for verifying the origin and sustainability of the timber.
- Sustainability Compliance: The detailed records ensured compliance with sustainability standards, supporting environmental stewardship and responsible forestry practices. This is especially important for EU regulation, such as the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive and Deforestation Regulation
- Improved Data Accuracy: The use of blockchain notarisation allowed for precise and tamper-proof data collection and management, facilitating better decision-making and inventory control. Blockchain certificated can highlight exact transaction details and pinpoint responsibilities in a secure and protected way.
Conclusion
The success of the Xylene and University of Freiburg project highlights the potential of advanced tracking technologies in transforming the timber industry. By providing end-to-end traceability and enhancing operational efficiency, Xylene’s digital product passports offer a robust solution for sustainable and transparent supply chain management.
This case study underscores Xylene’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, setting a new standard for traceability in the timber sector. The project not only benefits the industry but also contributes to the broader goal of environmental conservation and responsible resource management.
With this first proof of value creation and sustainability, the university and Xylene will expand the project in the upcoming months to include traceability at a larger scale over a longer period.