Revision of ISEAL Chain of Custody Models and Definitions Guidance
ISEAL is revising its Chain of Custody (CoC) Models and Definitions Guidance to improve clarity and consistency, helping stakeholders across sectors to effectively navigate the complexities of traceability and chain of custody.
Originally published in 2016, the CoC guidance has been a valuable public good across industries, providing clear definitions to support stakeholders to understand the link between chain of custody and the claims that can be made about a product. Since then, the traceability landscape has evolved significantly, and we’re updating this guidance to keep pace with these changes.
Supply chain management has seen major shifts due to regulatory developments, technological advancements, and increased corporate climate action. New regulations like the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) require companies to collect more detailed information on the origins and sustainability performance of materials. Innovations in technology, such as blockchain and satellite monitoring, are helping companies trace their products with greater precision. Additionally, new variations of CoC models are emerging to meet the growing demand for certified commodities while addressing specific supply chain needs, including Controlled Blending and Controlled Mass Balance.
Our goal is to provide stakeholders across sectors with definitions and frameworks that are clear, consistent, and relevant, supporting them as they navigate this dynamic landscape. The main objectives of this revision are to:
- Provide updated definitions of CoC models that are applicable across different sectors and commodities.
- Incorporate new CoC models, including Controlled Blending and Controlled Mass Balance.
- Introduce readers to the key concepts underpinning Chain of Custody, including attribution and volume reconciliation.
- Develop helpful visual aids, such as diagrams and infographics, to improve clarity.
The public consultation on the revised ISEAL Chain of Custody (CoC) Models and Definitions Guidance has now closed. The consultation ran from 11 November 2024 to 11 January 2025.
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback. Your input has been invaluable in shaping guidance that is practical, accurate, and aligned with the needs of diverse sectors and markets.
Join us on Wednesday 9 July, 16:00–17:00 BST (UTC+1), for a launch webinar introducing the revised CoC Models and Definitions Guidance.
Register for the launch webinar here!
For more information on the CoC guidance revision process, please contact:
- Josh Taylor, Traceability Manager, josh@isealalliance.org.
- Jessica Fryer, Coordinator Impacts and Innovations, JessicaF@isealalliance.org
Thank you for your involvement in creating a shared language and understanding for Chain of Custody models.