The mass balance approach is an important milestone on the journey toward a circular economy. Because bio-based feedstocks are often mixed with other materials during manufacturing, it’s not always practical or feasible to physically separate recycled content and track it separately.
How it varies from other tracking methods
Other approaches often freely attribute circular or bio-based feedstock inputs to one or more outputs.
Alternatively, the mass balance approach measures the amount of circular and/or bio-based feedstocks at various points throughout the production process and segregates it in bookkeeping. Each of the final outputs then have a more accurate measure of its share of circular and/or bio-based feedstock versus fossil feedstocks.
Benefits of using the mass balance approach
The mass balance approach gives a more accurate measure of the make-up of an output or final product. When it’s clear what share is circular and/or bio-based feedstock, it’s possible to work toward increasing that share in the production process and attributing it on an equivalent basis.
Also, those using the mass balance approach can make more credible claims about the sustainability of their final products.
Multiple organizations offer certification schemes for sustainability of biomass, including ISCC, RSB and RedCert. Learn more about labelling and certifications here.
This website uses cookies to improve your user experience
We use cookies for a variety of purposes, such as website functionality and helping target our marketing activities. Click "accept" to accept our cookies. You can change the cookie settings by clicking "change settings".