Globally, the challenge of deforestation looms large, posing a threat to biodiverse ecosystems while simultaneously accounting for a significant 11% of the planet's carbon emissions. Around 90% of deforestation stems from the transformation of land for agricultural purposes, primarily to cultivate forest-risk commodities such as cattle, soy, palm oil, cocoa, rubber, and coffee (UK Parliament, 2024).
The European Union Deforestation-free Regulation (EUDR) which will be coming into obligation soon is set to redefine standards for zero-deforestation products and sustainable supply chain practices. As a result, companies are placing greater emphasis on the implementation of sustainable supply chain management. This shift has generated a heightened demand for cost-effective monitoring solutions to substantiate compliance within the context of globalized supply chains. With a deforestation cut-off date set at December 31, 2020, EUDR mandates that products and commodities associated with deforestation or forest degradation subsequent to this deadline are prohibited in EU markets. The specific commodities subject to the requirement of being deforestation-free include cattle, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, soy, rubber, and timber. Additionally, derived products such as beef, chocolate, tire and industrial goods are also encompassed by these regulations. This stringent approach underscores the EU's commitment to curbing deforestation and promoting sustainability within its markets (European Union, 2023).
To comply with the regulation, companies must globally monitor supply chains for both imported and domestically produced commodities in the EU market. The EUDR mandates suppliers to furnish geocoordinates for the land plots where relevant commodities are produced. Additionally, due diligence information for all these locations must be provided. Consequently, the utilization of satellite data and advanced geospatial tools are crucial for accurate monitoring and verification of compliance with these requirements (Global Forest Watch, 2023).
As a trusted partner for businesses to comply with the EUDR, we provide the necessary support and guidance for its compliance. Embracing technological solutions, such as satellite imagery to monitor and integrated in our Land Use Tracker feature within the KoltiTrace MIS platform, we can enhance visibility and accountability throughout supply chains. Adopting such technologies could be instrumental in meeting the traceability and transparency requirements set forth by the regulator.
Geospatial Data Collection for EUDR Compliance
Koltiva utilizes satellite imagery to effectively monitor changes in land cover, specifically focusing on detecting areas experiencing deforestation. Fueled by high spatial and spectral resolution imagery and machine learning algorithms, and integration with openly audited forest cover resources, it delivers unparalleled accuracy and customization. These datasets are processed using spatial data processing applications to extract relevant information, which is then incorporated into our KoltiTrace MIS dashboard for further analysis. A notable strength of both datasets is their alignment with the definitions provided by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the EUDR. With a data accuracy of 10 meters per pixel, we benefit from a detailed and advantageous perspective for precise monitoring of land cover changes. This approach is further enhanced by cross-referencing geospatial data, which includes information on both forest and non-forest areas from satellite imagery and tree cover loss data. The integration of this data is crucial as it is overlaid with farm polygon data sourced from KoltiTrace MIS FarmXtension. This comprehensive analysis involves examining the intersection area between forest regions, tree cover loss, and specific farm polygons, such as those related to coffee or cocoa cultivation. Through this meticulous process, Koltiva is able to verify commodity-specific deforestation, adding a layer of precision to their monitoring efforts.
Integration with GIS (Geographic Information System) for Efficient Spatial Analysis
Satellite imagery provides a wealth of information about the Earth's surface, and when seamlessly integrated into GIS, it enables a comprehensive spatial analysis of deforested areas. We process data obtained from audited forest cover resources using spatial data processing applications. The extracted information is then utilized on our KoltiTrace MIS dashboard for in-depth analysis. Through this integration, the process of mapping deforested regions becomes more efficient and accurate.
Validation from Field Data Collection
Ground data is essential for validating what is observed in satellite imagery. For instance, what looks like deforestation from space might be a seasonal change in certain types of vegetation. Ground data validation helps in avoiding such misinterpretations. Using the KoltiTrace MIS FarmXtension mobile app, the field agents visit producer plantations and collect polygon data by walking around plot boundaries. The app overcomes network challenges in plantation areas by relying on satellite signals, enabling offline functionality through pre-downloaded map data. Collected data syncs automatically once an internet connection is established. For insights into farm deforestation, the KoltiTrace MIS web app overlays farm polygons with geospatial data like forest area and tree cover loss, facilitating the identification of land use changes.
Additional Reference and On-Ground Data Integration to Support Accuracy
Historical Land Closure Patterns: Investigating previous data on land closure exposes distinct patterns of deforestation within a specific region. By analyzing historical trends, we can discern the evolution of deforestation over time.
Sociodemographic Insight: Examining factors such as population demographics, economic activities, and settlement patterns in the vicinity of forests offers a pragmatic framework for comprehending the underlying causes of deforestation. This sociodemographic analysis provides a contextual understanding of the human-related aspects influencing deforestation.
Government Regulations: Understanding the intricacies of forest regulations, protected areas, and land-use policies is essential for gaining a practical perspective on the dynamics of deforestation. This knowledge enables us to assess the impact and effectiveness of governmental measures in mitigating deforestation and promoting sustainable land management.
The global fight against deforestation requires a unified effort, and the upcoming EUDR marks a significant step in the right direction. With over a decade of experience as a trusted global agritech service and on-the-ground solution provider, Koltiva stands as a reliable partner in ensuring EUDR compliance. We offer an end-to-end solution for businesses committed to responsible practices. Consult with our experts today to secure a future where responsible business practices coexist with a thriving planet.
References:
House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee. (n.d.). Summary: Deforestation in Supply Chains - Environmental Audit Committee. Retrieved from https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5804/cmselect/cmenvaud/405/summary.html#:~:text=Around%2090%25%20of%20deforestation%20is,local%20communities%2C%20including%20indigenous%20peoples.
EUR-Lex. (2023). Regulation (EU) 2023/1115 - EUR-Lex. Retrieved from https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:32023R1115&qid=1705477156957
Global Forest Watch. (n.d.). Satellite Data and EU Regulation for Deforestation-Free Supply Chains. Retrieved from https://www.globalforestwatch.org/blog/commodities/satellite-data-eu-regulation-deforestation-free-supply-chains/
Global Forest Watch. (n.d.). Monitoring Forest Degradation for the EUDR - Global Forest Watch. Retrieved from https://www.globalforestwatch.org/blog/commodities/monitoring-forest-degradation-eudr/
Koltiva. (n.d.). Unleashing the Power of Deforestation Monitoring Tools for EUDR Compliance. Retrieved from https://www.koltiva.com/post/unleashing-the-power-of-deforestation-monitoring-tools-for-eudr-compliance
About Writer
Writer: Maria Marshella Gaviota, Marketing Communication Officer at Koltiva
Editor: Daniel Agus Prasetyo, Head of PR and Corporate Communication at Koltiva
Content Source: Didi Adisaputro, Environment Lead, and Fariz Kukuh Harwinda, Product Portfolio and Engagement Manager at Koltiva
Maria Marshella Gaviota, Marketing Communication Officer at Koltiva, blends her marketing expertise with a profound passion for agricultural technology. Armed with a background in marketing and a keen interest in agritech, she offers invaluable insights into the convergence of agriculture and technology. Maria's writing prowess in agritech extends to effectively communicating complex agricultural concepts, technological advancements, and their practical applications in the field.
This is hands down an insightful article for businesses to adhere to EUDR compliance. Looking forward to seeing more posts about this!
Beautifully and informatively written, this article provides us with valuable insights into the Land Use Tracker technology designed for monitoring deforestation.
This is very insightful. We need more information on what actions businesses need to do to adhere to the regulation.
Deforestation has been a major concern, and it's encouraging to see companies like Koltiva stepping up with innovative solutions. The Land Use Tracker's focus on EUDR compliance could be a pivotal force in mitigating environmental risks associated with cocoa production. Great initiative!