Blockchain can provide transparency and security in tracking the furniture's journey, automating processes, reducing intermediaries, and enhancing traceability, logistics, transportation, and inventory management; it also can improve the furniture manufacturing industry's efficiency and supply chain management. In addition, blockchain technology can assist with waste management and circularity by providing transparency and security in tracking furniture journeys, identifying products that are ready for disposal or recycling, creating marketplaces for used sustainable furniture, and certifying the authenticity of sustainable furniture.
By automating several operations and eliminating the need for middlemen, blockchain can assist in cutting the time and resources necessary for supply chain management.
One of the most significant benefits of blockchain is its capacity to provide a transparent and secure method for tracking the journey of a piece of furniture from its raw material source to its final consumer. By providing a system to track the origin of the materials used to construct furniture, blockchain technology can aid in enhancing product traceability and identifying the source of any potential problems. This may increase transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain, making identifying inefficiencies and potential problems more manageable.
In addition, blockchain technology may be used to boost the efficiency of logistics and transportation in the furniture industry by enabling real-time tracking of product whereabouts and route optimization. This can help reduce the time and resources required for logistics and transportation, resulting in lower costs and more efficiency.
There are two examples of how blockchain technology is being utilized to assist with furniture:
Provenance is a company established in the United Kingdom that utilizes blockchain technology to monitor the route of furniture from the source of raw materials to the ultimate user. This gives buyers access to verifiable information on the materials and manufacturing procedures of the furniture they want to buy, allowing them to make better-educated decisions regarding the environmental effect of their purchases.
Shojinwood is a Japanese company that employs blockchain technology to monitor the provenance of the materials used in its furniture. It gives buyers access to reliable information about the components and manufacturing procedures of the furniture they want.
Manufacturers may use blockchain technology to improve their operations and the customer experience in a variety of ways:
Traceability of the Supply Chain: Improve transparency and security in tracking furniture journeys through the supply chain.
Quality Control: Track furniture quality, including the materials used, the manufacturing process, and the testing outcomes.
Authentication of Products: Verify the provenance and authenticity of the furniture.
Environmental Impacts and Carbon Emissions: Track the environmental and social impact of furniture manufacturers, such as the usage of sustainable materials, the carbon footprint, and the working conditions of those involved in the manufacturing.
Blockchain technology can also be used to provide transparency in the labeling of furniture. Manufacturers, suppliers, and retailers may use blockchain to store data. All supply chain participants may then track and validate this information, giving transparency and accountability. This can assist in ensuring that the information on the label is correct and current. Consumers may access the information recorded on the blockchain via a QR code or other ways, giving them a complete history of the furniture they purchase. Furthermore, blockchain technology may track certifications such as FSC, GOTS, LEED, etc.