Detection of illegal logging
CSI: Elemental analysis as a key to detecting fraud in supply chains
Deforestation and agricultural expansion are advancing rapidly worldwide. Despite existing regulations, a significant portion of tropical timber harvesting and the production of agricultural commodities such as coffee, cocoa, and soy takes place under illegal or unclear circumstances.
The origin and authenticity of these products are often difficult to trace. This creates opportunities for fraud, human rights violations, and unsustainable practices. CSI (Crop Source Investigations), a specialized service of Meise Botanic Garden, offers a powerful solution through elemental analysis using ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry). This technology makes it possible to determine the geographical origin of plant material based on its unique elemental signature.
CSI focuses on the determination of the origin of:
- Wood
- Coffee
- Cocoa
- Soy
In addition to elemental analysis, molecular and morphological expertise can also be applied where necessary to determine the origin and species identity of the material. CSI supports law enforcement agencies, certifiers, and NGOs working towards sustainable and transparent supply chains.
More info: https://www.meise-csi.be