Australia launches digital traceability platform to track coral supply chains

Australia has launched the Australian Wildlife Traceability System, a digital platform designed to track coral through the supply chain. Mirage News reported that the platform is a world first aimed at enhancing traceability and supporting the sustainable management and trade of wildlife resources. [1]

The platform was built by OriginsNext, an Australian technology company, in collaboration with government representatives, industry figures, and scientists. Mirage News reported that secure tags assign each piece of coral a unique digital identification number and a verified record. Approved users can scan the identification tag to verify its origin. [1]

Wildlife smuggling is estimated to generate between 5 billion and 23 billion dollars annually, increasing to between 67 billion and 193 billion dollars when timber and fish are included. This makes it the fourth largest criminal enterprise globally, behind drug, firearm, and human trafficking. [2]

The new digital system aims to build trust, assist businesses with regulatory compliance, and reduce illegal, unreported, and unregulated wildlife trade. Mirage News reported that the system helps Australia fulfill its obligations under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. [1]