akar.earthPolygon: Definition
What is a polygon under the EUDR? The boundary of a production plot, when it is required instead of a single point, and how to map one correctly.
A polygon is a closed shape defined by a series of latitude and longitude points that marks the boundary of a plot of land. Under the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), a polygon is required for production plots larger than 4 hectares, except for cattle, so that the whole area can be checked for deforestation since the cut-off date.
Why it matters
A single point only says where a plot is. A polygon says how big it is and exactly which land it covers. That lets operators and authorities overlay the plot on satellite imagery and forest maps to see whether any part was cleared after 31 December 2020. Missing, wrong or overlapping polygons are one of the most common reasons EUDR data fails due diligence.
How it is used
- Field teams walk the boundary with a GNSS device or trace it on high-resolution imagery, then check it with the farmer.
- Coordinates are stored with at least six decimal places and exported as GeoJSON for the due diligence statement.
- Polygons are screened against forest baselines and alerts to flag risk.
Read the full rules on EUDR polygon requirements and the related term geolocation.
Indonesia and Southeast Asia angle
Many Indonesian smallholder plots are under 4 ha and may qualify for a single point, but palm oil and rubber holdings often exceed that size, and one farmer may manage several parcels. Informal tenure means boundaries are not always recorded, so mapping must be agreed with farmers and neighbours. Carbon projects mapping the same farms can share the data.
Common mistakes
- Polygons that do not close, self-intersect or overlap neighbouring plots.
- Drawing the whole village or farm group as one polygon.
- Using low-accuracy phone GPS under canopy without checking against imagery.
- Not updating polygons when plots are split, sold or expanded.
Check your readiness with the EUDR readiness check or visit the EUDR hub.
Frequently asked questions
When does EUDR require a polygon?
For plots of land over 4 hectares used to produce relevant commodities other than cattle. Smaller plots can be described by a single point.
What format should EUDR polygons be in?
The EU Information System accepts geolocation data in GeoJSON. Coordinates use latitude and longitude with at least six decimal places.