Traceability is defined as the ability to trace the history, application or location of an item or activity by means of recorded identifications. this involves two main aspects: on the one hand, identification of the product by marking; and, on the other, the recording of data regarding the product all the way along the production, processing and distribution chain. The present publication will present a sample of these initiatives in order to show the advantages of efficient traceability that takes account of the user’s aim and the environment in which the system will be operating. It is intended not only for the managers of large-scale enterprises, but also for the managers of community forests and for forest service officers with the task of developing a traceability system suited to their needs.
