Greenhouse gas accounting (GHG accounting) has become increasingly important in recent years for assessing the impact of human activities on the climate and developing efficient mitigation strategies. Different systems such as REDcert, ISCC and the SURE-EU system offer different approaches to GHG accounting. This technical article focuses 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 recognized 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 evidence that the sustainability criteria set out in the EU's Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) for the production 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. Since SURE and REDcert recognize each other, one part of the supply chain can be certified according to REDcert and another part according to SURE in order to fulfill 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 customization 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 optimization.
Difference between SURE, REDcert and ISCC
Methodology
While REDcert focuses primarily on biogenic fuels and ISCC covers a wide range of applications, SURE offers a specialized approach for the biomass and bioproducts industry.
Flexibility
ISCC is very flexible and globally applicable, while REDcert is more focused on the European market. SURE offers a middle ground through its customizable structure.
Transparency
In terms of transparency and traceability, SURE scores particularly well with its stringent certification process.
Procedure of the SURE-EU system
The system uses a life cycle analysis (LCA) for GHG balancing. Emissions are taken into account from raw material extraction through to end use. A special feature is the integration of a "hot-spot analysis", in which special areas with high emissions are identified and analyzed 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 summary of the typical procedure:
First steps and documentation requirements
- Self-evaluation: The company or organization seeking certification first conducts a self-evaluation to understand the current status of GHG emissions and sustainability practices.
- Data collection: The next step is to collect all the necessary data required to assess the GHG footprint.
- Third-party audit: An independent auditor checks the data and compliance with the SURE standards.
Life cycle assessment (LCA) and hot-spot analysis
Life cycle analysis: The collected data 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 analysis: In parallel, a hot-spot analysis is carried out to identify areas within the product life cycle that cause particularly high emissions.
Results and optimization
- Evaluation: The results are evaluated and documented as part of the GHG balance.
- Optimization plans: Optimization plans are developed based on the hot-spot analysis and the LCA.
- Certification: Upon successful auditing and assessment, the SURE certificate is issued.
SURE: Continuous monitoring and improvement
- Monitoring: The company carries out continuous monitoring of the GHG balance and sustainability practices.
- Annual review: An annual re-audit ensures that the standards are met and improvements have been made.
- Recertification: Depending on the results of the annual review, the SURE certificate is renewed or adjusted.
GHG accounting plays a key role in sustainable energy management. In this context, the SURE-EU system is a promising instrument that is characterized by transparency, flexibility and a special focus on the biomass and bioproduct industry .
The SURE-EU system thus relies on a holistic approach that encompasses both current emissions and the 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.
