Blockchain-based solution for the process of obtaining and maintaining of the rainforest alliance certification in the Sri Lankan tea supply chain

Abstract

The tea industry in Sri Lanka holds a significant position in the global market, as it is the fourth largest tea producer worldwide, and renowned for its premium brand name, “Ceylon Tea.” However, despite the positive economic impacts, the industry encounters several sustainable challenges, such as inadequate agricultural practices, labour wage disparities, deforestation, and soil erosion, among others. This study aims to propose a blockchain-based framework to address these sustainability issues and streamline the process of obtaining and maintaining the Rainforest Alliance certification in the Sri Lankan tea supply chain. The Rainforest Alliance is a voluntary certification program that is widely adopted in the tea industry as a mark of sustainability.