RFID implementations in the wood supply chains: state of the art and the way to the future

The focus of this review paper is to present the state of the art regarding RFID implementations in wood supply chains, covering the tree marking stage till the transportation to the final processor. The easier than ever collection of data using sensors and the emerging ability to exchange information in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT) form a very promising new environment for the optimization of wood supply chains. Driven by currently enhanced, ability to store different layers of information per merchantable unit (tree assortments at final or semi-final form or containers of woody biomass), RFID applications can provide valuable solutions and revolutionize wood supply chains by warranting traceability, combating illegal logging, minimizing waste and offering detailed information of the wood products properties, among other benefits that are presented in the text. The benefits can be identified at the ecological, social and economic levels, addressing the sustainability concerns of modern societies. To make use of this huge potential, a continuous flow and fusion of information at all supply chain stages must be taken for granted, as well as the close cooperation among stakeholders.