Meaning
Calculations distribute the environmental benefits of recycled feedstock across a range of final products. A proportional allocation model assigns the sustainable attributes based on the actual mass balance of the production site. This system allows a company to claim a percentage of recycled content even if the molecules are mixed with virgin material.
It is a common practice in the chemical recycling industry where feedstocks are co-processed.
Mass Balance
The input of sustainable material must match the total output of certified products.
Strict Custody
Documentation follows the material through every stage of the manufacturing process. Under a proportional allocation model, an independent auditor verifies that the company is not selling more green credits than it has actually earned. This verification process involves checking purchase orders and production logs against the sales of finished goods.
Maintaining this transparency is vital for the credibility of the mass balance system and the trust of the customers.
Digital Trail
Electronic ledgers record every transaction involving the certified resin. These records prove that the proportional allocation model was applied correctly and that no double counting occurred. Companies use this data to issue sustainability declarations to their buyers.
The existence of a clear trail ensures that the environmental claims can survive a formal inspection by regulatory bodies or non-governmental organisations.
