John Simon, the boss of Simmonds Lumber, another DoubleHelix client, explains how it works.

ECONOMIST: Genetic testing of wood can curb illegal logging

Enter DoubleHelix Tracking Technologies, a Singapore-based firm that uses DNA testing to pinpoint where a piece of wood is from.

ECONOMIST: Genetic testing of wood can curb illegal logging

Now, thanks to DoubleHelix, Simmonds can show that a piece of merbau decking assembled in Australia comes from a specific (and legit) stump in Indonesia.

ECONOMIST: Genetic testing of wood can curb illegal logging