Mass balance is an accounting principle to measure and track inputs and outputs of bio-based or recycled materials through complex value chains.
Mass balance is suitable for companies that want to accelerate the use of non-fossil feedstocks. The approach can be applied to existing chemical production systems and supply chains, requiring minimal investments. It can contribute to a continuously increasing share of, for instance, bio-based materials in the case of biomass balance.
When fossil, recycled, or bio-based raw materials are mixed in a production process, a later assignment of the input and outputs is complicated. This is where mass balance comes into play as with this approach, the flow of materials through a complex value chain can be tracked. It can be verified and certified for instance according to the standard of ISCC Plus.
Ultimately, mass balance is just the beginning and one of many first steps toward the sustainable use of materials in the future.
