The Carbon Footprint of Platinum Group Metals
This document provides practical guidance on how to calculate the carbon footprint of primary (mined) Platinum Group Metals. "The Carbon Footprint of Platinum Group Metals" provides stakeholders involved in the PGM value chain with background information and technical guidance on what the industry perceives as best practice approach regarding the measurement of GHG emissions of refined PGMs. It complements the LCA publications that are made available on the website, and the industry-average life cycle asssessment data that LCA practictioners can source from the IPA or through the GaBi/LCA for Experts database.
Characterization factor:
The current version of the guidance recommends AR5 (100 year GWP)
To align with PACT Methodology: Use the latest version of the IPCC Assessment Report publication as indicated in Chapter 3.2.1 of the PACT Methodology
Exemption rule
The current version of the guidance has an exemption rule of max. 1% of emissions at individual attributable processes, and cumulative at max. 3% of emissions overall
This is stricter than PACT and therefore, no other additional action is needed
Allocation
The current version of the guidance follows the allocation decision tree as indicated in Chapter 3.3.1.4 Figure 8 of the PACT Methodology and add an additional step specific for this industry
Biogenic emissions and removals:
Not been relevant for this product, so not currently included
Validity period
The current version of the guidance recommend to update PCFs at least in a 5-year cycle or whenever a significant change occurs in the production process or any other parameters affecting the PCF
To align with PACT Methodology: Follow the 3-year cycle or earlier if > 10% variance criteria as indicated in Chapter 6.1.2.1 of the PACT Methodology
Data quality metrics
The current version of the guidance does not mandate the calculation of any specific data quality metrics
To align with PACT Methodology: Use the data quality metrics as indicated in Chapter 4.2 of the PACT Methodology
Assurance and verification
The current version of the guidance does not include specific requirements about the level and basis for assurance and verification
To align with PACT Methodology: Follow the requirements specified in Chapter 5 of the PACT Methodology
