Digital Technologies and Collaborative Governance Capability in Forestry Supply Chains

Abstract

Digital technologies are transforming supply chain management by enabling greater connectivity, transparency, and coordination among supply chain partners. In forestry supply chains, characterized by dispersed resources, multiple stakeholders, and complex operational processes, collaborative governance has become increasingly important for improving coordination and sustainable resource management. However, existing studies mainly focus on operational optimization and digital applications, while the governance implications of digital technologies remain insufficiently explored. This conceptual article explores how digital technologies may enable collaborative governance capability in forestry supply chains through four governance mechanisms: information sharing, resource integration, collaborative decision-making, and adaptive governance. Based on collaborative governance and digital transformation literature, a conceptual framework is proposed to illustrate how digital technologies may support governance processes through the Internet of Things, big data analytics, cloud computing, blockchain, and artificial intelligence. The article provides theoretical insights into digital-enabled collaborative governance and practical implications for sustainable forestry supply chains.