Understanding the intricate flows of resource consumption and emissions within various industries is paramount in pursuing a sustainable future.
As part of TransFIRe’s Work Stream 1 (WS1), we are working on a ground-breaking study that bridges a critical gap in our comprehension of foundation industries. Foundation industries include the cement, ceramics, chemicals, glass, metals, and paper sectors – the backbone of our society.
The developed study introduces a methodological framework that addresses the gap in mapping resource flows and provides a replicable blueprint for interpreting the complexities of resource consumption and emissions. By adopting this approach, we gain profound insights into the collective performance of these industries and their sectors. Furthermore, the study benchmarks the current performance of the UK against global averages and best practices, acting as a compass for tracking progress towards ambitious net-zero targets.
One of the key merits of this study lies in its ability to foster a transparent and traceable measurement of foundation industries. The research unravels the intricacies of each sector, unveiling their relevance and associated impacts. This marks a significant stride towards establishing a comprehensive framework for quantifying the footprint of these industries, guiding policymakers and stakeholders towards informed decision-making.
Within the foundation industries, cement and steel manufacturing emerge as the drivers of the UK’s performance. On a mass basis, these sectors contribute to nearly half of the total material output within the considered industries. The significance of cement and steel cannot be understated. The study recognises this undeniable truth, emphasising that advancements in these sectors will reverberate through the decarbonisation trajectory.
The proposed methodological approach offers a comprehensive analysis of the UK’s foundation industries and lays a solid foundation for cross-country and cross-regional comparisons. A key insight underscored by the study is the divergence in energy and emissions intensities across different materials. Acknowledging this divergence is essential, as overlooking it may lead to skewed performance metrics and misguided conclusions. The study’s approach, when adopted internationally, harmonises the evaluation of products and sectors, enabling fair and accurate assessments that transcend geographical boundaries.
Perhaps the most promising facet of this study is its dynamic nature. The methodology outlined within equips us with the tools to monitor the flow of resource utilisation within foundation industries. Replicating this approach on a broader scale presents a profound understanding of the ripple effects of policy implementations and technological breakthroughs. As we navigate the complicated path towards sustainability, this study becomes a guiding star, illuminating the way forward and offering a clear lens through which we can gauge our progress.
Written by Natanael Bolson