Thünen Centre of Competence on the Origin of Timber

The Centre of Competence is the central contact facility for government agencies, timber trade, consumers and associations to verify the species and origin of wood and wood products. Here, wood samples can be determined beyond doubt at the genus or species level, and information on the geographical origin of the wood can be verified for numerous tree species. In addition, certification systems for the sustainability of forest management are being further developed and timber trade flows analyzed.

Short notes

News in brief

Participation in trade fairs and conferences, new developments, exchange with visitor groups, research trips: Things are happening here!

Implementation and effects of the EU Timber Regulation

The EU Timber Regulation is intended to curb the trade in illegally harvested timber. Timber market analyses and company surveys show the discrepancy between the scope of regulation and its implementation.

Wood samples

Woods differ in terms of structure, color and consistency. For this reason, woods are used for very different purposes. In the following we provide examples of 12 domestic and tropical woods, respectively.

Charcoal: What are we barbecuing with?

In recent years, scientists at the Thünen Centre of Competence have examined the composition and declarations of around 450 charcoal and briquette assortments. With surprising results.

The scientific wood collection (Xylothek)

The wood collection of the Thünen Institute has been built up over many years and includes approx. 35,000 wood samples from 11,300 species.

CITESwoodID and macroHOLZdata

Two tools for the determination of woods are now also available as apps for smartphones and tablets

Tracking down the species and origin of wood with genetic methods

When it comes to distinguishing between anatomically similar wood species or making statements about the origin of certain woods, genetic studies are the method of choice. This requires reference samples of woods whose species and origin have been clarified beyond doubt.

New EU regulation for deforestation-free products replaces EUTR

The new EU regulation to curb trade in products linked to deforestation, forest degradation and illegality (in short: EUDR) was adopted in May 2023 and has to be implemented from December 30, 2024.