Vintage oak valued for wine barrels, antique furniture and solid flooring
By Ken Hickson for Focus on Forests “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue”. While that’s usually applied to the bride’s attire on wedding days, but as these matrimonial events are very restricted around the world these days, why not apply it to a precious wood instead? Oak. Lockdowns or not, it is still […]
DoubleHelix expands its global operations to 13 locations
Darren Thomas, co-Founder and CEO of Double Helix Tracking Technologies (DoubleHelix), the Singapore company which pioneered the use of DNA analysis to verify timber species and origin, relocates back to the United Kingdom this month from where he will continue to manage the global business. He and fellow Englishman Kevin Hill established DoubleHelix in Singapore […]
Withdrawal of DoubleHelix services from Myanmar
Following careful consideration of ongoing developments in Myanmar, and in alignment with EU sanctions imposed on Myanma Timber Enterprise (MTE) effective 21st June 2021, DoubleHelix will cease all operations in the country on the same day. This decision prioritises the safety and welfare of our staff and demonstrates our commitment to responsible business practices. We […]
How DNA test and trace aims to cut illegal exports of the endangered African cherry
By Ken Hickson The science of DNA testing to check on crimes of a human kind is now being increasingly utilised to help bring an end to environmental crime or at least to reduce the level of illegal trade. The latest focus of attention is the endangered African cherry – officially known as Prunus africana. […]
Joining Forces for Next-Generation Risk Management: Global Timber Supply Chain Risk & Regulatory Compliance
Singapore-based Double Helix Tracking Technologies is joining forces with 11Foundry of the United States to help timber companies all over the world better manage their global supply chain risk and regulatory compliance. Many timber industry professionals are familiar with global regulations such as the US Lacey Act and EU Timber Regulation. Whilst industry professionals have […]
Sourcing Certified Timber for Maldives Sustainable Resort Features
A sustainable timber supply chain for Patina Maldives Resort is one part of the developer’s quest to build for perpetuity By Floyd Cowan Visitors to the Maldives immediately become aware of its precious fragile environment and most guests are sensitive to the need to protect and preserve it. When Pontiac Land of Singapore decided to […]
How to avoid natural forests destruction and meet strict international timber trade rules
By Ken Hickson for Focus on Forests How can importers manage the risks associated with getting timber products from the Amazon? We hear a lot about the damage to the Amazon – the largest rainforest resource in the world – from deforestation, illegal logging and out of control forest fires. But little is said about […]
Exporting Chain of Custody certified wood from Indonesia to New Zealand
How can you be sure that the beautiful teak dining table or decking you proudly possess is not made from wood illegally harvested from a Southeast Asia forest? Double Helix Tracking Technologies is doing its best to provide the very assurances needed by timber importers, builders, designers, furniture makers, retailers and consumers. The first shipment […]
Status of DoubleHelix services in Myanmar since 1st February 2021
DoubleHelix has been closely monitoring the situation in Myanmar since the military asserted control at the beginning of February. Our primary concern has been for the safety and welfare of our staff in Myanmar. At this time, they are all staying safe at home. Our next priority is to our customers and partners operating in […]
Innovations helping smallholder farmers & forest-owners add sustainability & integrity to their enterprise
By Ken Hickson for Focus on Forests “The DNA tracking will help to reduce the A$42.8 billion illicit trade of teak.” Project leader, Professor Andrew Lowe from the University of Adelaide “This is a powerful means of restoring trust and confidence in chain of custody systems.” Darren Thomas, Double Helix Tracking Technologies “Biophysical and social […]
