Advantages of certified production of biogas or biomethane according to the ISCC standard

ISCC stands for International Sustainability and Carbon Certification, which translates to "International Standard for Sustainability and Carbon Certification." It is a certification system that aims to ensure sustainability and determine the carbon footprint of products and services.

In the context of the ISCC, which specializes in sustainability and compliance in the energy production sector, "sustainability" can include the following aspects

• Social responsibility: Consideration of labor conditions, human rights, and relationships with the local community.
• Environmental responsibility: Minimizing negative impacts on the environment, including managing greenhouse gas emissions and using resources efficiently.
• Sourcing of raw materials: Focusing on the use of sustainable, renewable raw materials.
• Traceability and traceability: The ability to trace the origin of raw materials and products at different stages of the production chain.
• Promoting sustainable development: Energy products are produced in a sustainable manner that contributes to long-term economic, environmental and social well-being.

Thus, when we talk about "sustainability" in the context of the ISCC, we mean meeting high standards in all these aspects in energy production.

However, when we talk about certification of production, namely certification of a biogas plant according to standards such as ISCC, usually includes a number of steps and criteria aimed at ensuring sustainability and compliance with environmental and social standards. The main elements of biogas plant certification may include:

• Feedstock sources: Assessment of the sources of feedstock for biogas production. This may include growing energy crops, using agricultural waste or other organic waste.
• Biogas production: An assessment of the biogas production processes, including technology, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, and energy efficiency.
• Social aspects: Consideration of social aspects, such as working conditions, health and safety, relationships with the local community, and other social impacts.
• Determining the carbon footprint: Determination of the climate change impact and carbon footprint of biogas production.
• Traceability and documentation: A traceability system that allows for the traceability of raw materials and other aspects of production.
• Quality and safety standards management: Defining quality management systems and implementing safety standards.
• Audit and inspection: Conducting audits and inspections to determine compliance with standards.

These elements may vary depending on the specific standard and regional requirements. Consider the specific requirements of ISCC or other similar standards that may be applicable in your region and industry.

In order to successfully pass the certification, it should be noted that the development and implementation of the ISCC system at a biogas plant requires some preparation and time. It is important to understand that this is a process that involves a number of steps, and the time for implementation may vary depending on the size of the plant, its current state and available resources. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Assessment of requirements and compliance: Start by thoroughly assessing the requirements of the ISCC standard and determining what needs to be done to be compliant. This may include an audit of your biogas production, feedstock use, social aspects, etc.
• Planning and development of the system: Develop a plan for implementing the ISCC system. This includes identifying responsible persons, resources needed, technical changes in production that may be required to meet the standard.
• Staff education and training: Ensure that personnel who will be working with the ISCC system receive the necessary education and training. This may include training on new procedures, record keeping, and responsibilities for compliance.
• Implementation of the system: Gradually implement the ISCC system, including any necessary changes and updates to production processes.
• Audit and certification: Conduct an internal audit to verify compliance and prepare for an external audit conducted by a certification organization. Successful completion of the audit will allow you to obtain the ISCC certificate.
• Continuous improvement: The ISCC system must be continuously improved. Constantly make changes in accordance with the requirements of the standard and improve processes.

It is also worth noting that for the successful functioning of any management system, an important stage is the involvement of specialists of different levels.

Maintaining a certification system, such as ISCC, at an enterprise usually involves a number of departments and specialists, with the initiative and responsibility being distributed among different teams. The exact structure and distribution of responsibilities may vary depending on the size of the enterprise, its industry and organizational structure. Here are some of the key roles and departments that often interact in running a certification system:

Senior management and management:

• Senior management: Provides support and strategic direction for the implementation and operation of the certification system.
• Quality and sustainability management: Responsible for the development, implementation and maintenance of the certification system.

Quality and Certification Department:

• Quality Manager: Responsible for the implementation and maintenance of the certification system, audits and interaction with certification organizations.

Production Department:

• Production Engineers: Ensure that the technical aspects related to biogas production are performed in accordance with the standards.

Resources and Supply Department:

• Supply managers: Responsible for managing the supply chain and ensuring that raw materials meet the standards.

Health and Safety Department:

• Occupational health and safety specialists: Ensure compliance with safety and working conditions standards.

Specialists in social issues:

• Managers of the company's social responsibility: Responsible for aspects related to social responsibility, such as engagement with the local community.

IT specialists:

• Information technology specialists: Ensure compliance of electronic documentation and traceability systems.

The ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) system can provide a number of benefits for biogas plants internationally and for the country as a whole:

• Sustainability and Environment: Global recognition: ISCC is an internationally recognized standard that can increase the reputation and recognition of a biogas plant internationally.
• Compliance with sustainability standards: The ISCC system helps to confirm compliance with sustainability and high environmental standards, which is important for consumers and partners.
• Trade opportunities: Access to markets for green and sustainable products: ISCC certification can open up access to markets where sustainable and environmentally compliant products are valued and demanded.
• Carbon aspect: Managing the carbon footprint: ISCC allows a biogas plant to measure and manage its carbon footprint, which is becoming increasingly important in the context of commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Social responsibility: Balanced social aspects: ISCC takes into account social aspects such as working conditions and relationships with the local community, which contributes to sustainable development.
• Credibility and traceability: Product credibility: The ISCC system provides traceability of raw materials and products, which helps to determine their origin and compliance with standards.
• International cooperation: Cooperation and exchange of experience: ISCC-certified biogas plants can more easily join international communities and partnerships, share experiences and participate in joint initiatives.
• Legal compliance: Compliance with laws and regulations: ISCC certification helps to meet the requirements of legislation and regulations in the field of sustainability and energy production.

Given the growing interest in sustainability and responsible production, ISCC certification can be an important element for a biogas plant to differentiate itself in the international market and contribute to sustainable development.

In different countries and regions, there are a number of incentives, subsidies and other supports for companies that produce biogas, biomethane or bio-LNG and have certifications, such as ISCC certification or similar sustainability and responsibility standards.

Subsidies and higher prices for certified products can be established as part of national energy efficiency, renewable energy development, and sustainability programs. Also, higher prices can be driven by demand from consumers and companies that are actively seeking to use sustainable and responsibly produced energy resources.

Additional incentives for certified companies may be linked to the country's commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving environmental performance, and promoting renewable energy production.

It is important to study the specific legal and economic conditions of each country or region, as approaches and incentives may differ significantly. In addition, interaction with authorities, support programs and industry associations can help to obtain more detailed information on available support measures for certified biogas companies.

When implementing ISCC in your plant, it is recommended to contact the issuing organization and to study the specific conditions and possibilities of interaction with other standards that may be important for your industry and market.

If you have any questions, please contact

info@certification.ua