Greenhouse gas balancing according to the SURE-EU system: An innovative approach to sustainable energy management 

In Uncategorised by agriportance GmbH

Greenhouse gas accounting (GHG accounting) has become increasingly important in recent years as a means of assessing the impact of human activities on the climate and developing efficient mitigation strategies. Various systems such as REDcert, ISCC and the SURE-EU system offer different approaches to GHG accounting. This article focusses on the SURE-EU system and examines its role, advantages and differences to other accounting systems such as REDcert and ISCC. 

What is the SURE-EU system? 

The SURE system, or SUSTAINABLE RESOURCES Verification Scheme, is a certification system that is recognised by both the European Commission and the competent national authorities in the individual member states. It assesses the sustainability of biomass and bio-based products along the entire value chain. The SURE system focuses on reliable and transparent GHG accounting and was developed to provide a consistent method for monitoring and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the EU. 

It provides proof that the sustainability criteria set out in the EU's Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) for the generation of electricity and heat from biomass have been met. As an instrument, SURE confirms the particular importance of electricity and heat generation from biomass as an effective measure in the fight against climate change. Unlike REDcert, however, the SURE system does not cover the production of final fuels. As SURE and REDcert recognise each other, one part of the supply chain can be certified according to REDcert and another part according to SURE in order to fulfil the verification obligation for the entire supply chain. 

Transparency and traceability

SURE provides a clear framework for assessing the sustainability and traceability of products. This is particularly beneficial in supply chains with many stakeholders. 

Flexible customisation of the SURE system 

The SURE-EU system can be flexibly adapted to national and regional circumstances, which leads to broader applicability. 

Benchmarking

SURE enables a systematic comparison of the GHG balance between different products or production processes, which can lead to further optimisation. 

Difference between SURE, REDcert and ISCC 

Methodology

Whilst REDcert focuses primarily on biogenic fuels and ISCC covers a wide range of applications, SURE offers a specialised approach for the biomass and bioproducts industry. 

Flexibility

ISCC is very flexible and globally applicable, while REDcert is more focussed on the European market. SURE offers a middle ground here thanks to its customisable structure. 

Transparency

When it comes to transparency and traceability, SURE scores particularly highly with its stringent certification process. 

SURE-EU system procedure 

The system uses a life cycle analysis (LCA) to analyse the GHG accounting. Emissions from raw material extraction through to end use are taken into account. A special feature is the inclusion of a „hot-spot analysis“, in which specific areas with high emissions are identified and analysed separately. 

The approach and procedure of the SURE-EU system are complex and multi-stage in order to ensure a comprehensive and reliable greenhouse gas balance (GHG balance) and sustainability assessment. Below you will find a summarised description of the typical procedure: 

First steps and documentation requirements 

  1. Self-evaluationThe company or organisation seeking certification first conducts a self-evaluation to understand the current status of GHG emissions and sustainability practices. 
  1. Data collectionThe next step is to collect all the data required to assess the GHG balance. 
  1. Auditing by third partiesAn independent auditor checks the data and compliance with the SURE standards. 

Life cycle analysis (LCA) and hot-spot analysis 

Life cycle analysisThe data collected is used to carry out a life cycle analysis that covers all emissions from raw material extraction and production through to disposal or end use. 

Hot spot analysisIn parallel, a hot-spot analysis is carried out to identify areas within the product life cycle that cause particularly high emissions. 

Results and optimisation 

  1. ValuationThe results are evaluated and documented as part of the GHG balance. 
  2. Optimisation plansOptimisation plans are developed based on the hot-spot analysis and the LCA. 
  3. Certification: The SURE certificate is issued upon successful auditing and assessment. 

SURE: Continuous monitoring and improvement 

  1. MonitoringThe company continuously monitors its GHG footprint and sustainability practices. 
  2. Annual reviewAn annual re-audit ensures that the standards are met and that improvements have been made. 
  3. RecertificationDepending on the results of the annual review, the SURE certificate is renewed or adjusted. 

GHG accounting plays a key role in the sustainable energy economy. The SURE-EU system is a promising instrument in this context, characterised by transparency, flexibility and a special focus on the biomass and bioproduct industry.  

The SURE-EU system is therefore based on a holistic approach that includes both current emissions and potential for reducing emissions. The comprehensive approach and procedure ensures a high degree of transparency and credibility, making it an important tool in GHG accounting and sustainable resource management.