Illegal logging is a widespread problem in places like Indonesia, Brazil, Central America, and Central Africa where it affects the income and livelihood of the local population. New technology can help curb the illegal wood economy, however, by offering new forms of traceability. One solution comes from a company that offers a cheap, non-toxic powder that can be sprayed on to trees. Subsequently, the wood can be traced with a scanning device even when it is cut into pieces or turned into paper.