Improved management of biodiversity data in fibre value chains

How biodiversity data is collected and used is crucial for it to support decision-making. In this project, IVL and Essity develop approaches to make biodiversity data more reliable, comparable and usable in the forest and fibre sector.

Companies in the forest and fibre sector need better data on biodiversity. Data is available today, but it is often difficult to compare, track over time and interpret, especially when raw materials originate from many different locations and suppliers. To be useful in decision-making, biodiversity data needs to be managed as a business-critical resource. It must be traceable, comparable and reliable.

The project develops practical approaches for how biodiversity data can be collected, quality assured and used in fibre-based value chains. The work is led by IVL in collaboration with Essity.

Within the project, a limited number of biodiversity indicators are tested and selected. These indicators are intended to be relevant, understandable and feasible to use in practice. The work is based on life cycle assessment and is complemented with methods that capture how land use and landscape affect biodiversity. The results are intended to support risk assessment, sustainability reporting and dialogue with customers and other stakeholders.

The project aims to contribute to better decision-making and increased consideration of biodiversity in the forest and fibre sector.