Polygon Mapping for EUDR Compliance: Ensuring Traceability in Sustainable Supply Chains

As sustainability regulations tighten worldwide, businesses face increasing demands for transparency and traceability. The European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) exemplifies these rigorous standards, mandating traceability down to the farm level, complete with precise geolocation data. For organizations navigating these requirements, polygon mapping technology is invaluable. At UA Consultants, we are dedicated to supporting businesses in implementing polygon mapping to ensure compliance, sustainability, and ethical integrity within their supply chains.

What is Polygon Mapping for EUDR?

Polygon mapping is a geospatial technique that enables the precise mapping of farm boundaries using GPS coordinates. Unlike single-point GPS data, polygon mapping delineates the full perimeter of a plot, providing a more comprehensive representation of the land. Under EUDR guidelines, farms larger than four hectares must be mapped with polygons, while smaller plots can use either polygon mapping or single GPS points. By mapping land with six-digit latitude and longitude coordinates, businesses achieve the high level of traceability required by EUDR and contribute to a deforestation-free supply chain.

Ensuring Farm-Level Traceability

For companies subject to EUDR regulations, traceability to specific plots is essential to validate that commodities are not sourced from recently deforested areas. Geolocation data, supported by field photographs with geotags, time-stamped images, and satellite information, forms the foundation of due diligence statements that businesses must submit before placing products in EU markets. This data is easily collected using mobile devices and accessible GIS applications, allowing even smallholder farmers to participate in responsible sourcing.

Benefits of Polygon Mapping for Environmental and Ethical Compliance

1. Environmental Conservation: Polygon mapping plays a crucial role in protecting ecosystems by enabling companies to monitor land use and avoid sourcing from deforested areas. This technology aids in preserving biodiversity and contributes to climate change mitigation, aligning with global environmental goals.
2. Social and Ethical Responsibility: Beyond environmental conservation, polygon mapping supports social responsibility by protecting indigenous lands from exploitation. This technology allows businesses to respect local communities' rights and fosters ethical practices in supply chain management, helping them align with EUDR’s deforestation-free sourcing goals.

Challenges in Implementing Polygon Mapping

Despite its advantages, polygon mapping presents technological challenges. High-resolution satellite imagery is often costly, and obtaining reliable GPS data in remote areas can be difficult. Additionally, the precision of polygon mapping relies on data accuracy, where errors may lead to misinterpretation or even unjust allegations of deforestation. Smallholder farmers, who may lack GPS tracking tools, are particularly affected. Failure to meet EUDR’s GPS requirements could limit their access to EU markets.

The coffee supply chain exemplifies these challenges. Many coffee exporters rely on intermediaries who lack the means to collect and transmit GPS data. Without such data, compliance with EUDR’s traceability standards becomes difficult, potentially preventing coffee exporters from accessing the EU market and impacting farmers relying on these sales.

Technology Solutions for Effective Polygon Mapping

For businesses committed to sustainable sourcing, polygon mapping offers a powerful solution. Implementing this technology, however, requires investment in GIS software and access to satellite imagery. Partnering with geospatial technology experts can further ensure the accuracy and reliability of mapping.

Steps to Integrate Polygon Mapping into Supply Chain Management

1. Data Collection: Start by gathering critical information on the land used in the supply chain, including satellite imagery, GPS data, and relevant geographic information.
2. Polygon Creation: Using GIS software, create polygons that accurately represent land areas. Precision is vital in this step to ensure that the boundaries reflect the true land use.
3. Monitoring and Verification: Once mapping is complete, regular monitoring is essential to ensure the land remains free from deforestation. This process may include on-the-ground inspections and independent audits to validate data accuracy.
4. Transparency and Reporting: To maintain transparency, businesses should make mapping data available to stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and consumers. Reporting provides public accountability and ensures compliance with EUDR regulations.
5. Continuous Improvement: The insights derived from polygon mapping should inform decision-making and drive continuous improvements in sourcing and sustainability practices, reinforcing responsible land use.

UA Consultants: Guiding You to Sustainable and Compliant Supply Chains

At UA Consultants, we are committed to supporting businesses in adopting sustainable practices that meet EUDR and other regulatory requirements. Our team specializes in implementing polygon mapping technology and developing robust due diligence frameworks for supply chain transparency. By partnering with us, companies can ensure their supply chains remain sustainable, compliant, and ethical.

Contact UA Consultants to explore how polygon mapping can enhance traceability and sustainability in your supply chain. Together, we can lead the way in responsible sourcing and contribute to a deforestation-free future that respects both the environment and local communities.

ASHI CHAUHAN

Email- info@uaconsultants.org