Indicative Indicators of Specific Greenhouse Gas Emissions as the Basis of a National Sectoral Metallurgy Benchmarking System
Abstract
Purpose. To substantiate theoretical and methodical foundations and develop practical recommendations for the implementation of a national benchmarking system for specific greenhouse gas emissions in the Ukrainian iron and steel industry as a tool for stimulating decarbonization and ensuring the competitiveness of the national economy in the context of European integration.
Method. A complex of scientific methods was used: systemic-structural analysis to study global benchmarking models (EU ETS, WorldSteel, Keidanren); mathematical modeling to develop the formulas for calculating indicative indicators; comparative analysis to compare the technological efficiency of domestic and foreign metallurgical enterprises; statistical methods for processing material and energy balance data of production processes.
Findings. A conceptual model of two-level sectoral benchmarking based on the establishment of restrictive and motivational carbon intensity levels was formed; a unified algorithm for conducting benchmarking for metallurgical processes was developed, including nine stages; specific values of indicative indicators for specific emissions for coke, pig iron, and steel production were calculated, allowing the identification of zones for regulatory impact and state support.
Theoretical implications. The work deepens scientific approaches to managing the decarbonization of the national economy by clarifying the categorical apparatus of "sectoral benchmarking" and expanding the methodical toolkit for assessing the carbon intensity of industrial products, taking into account direct and indirect emissions (Scope 1, 2).
Practical implications. The results can be used by the Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Ukraine in developing the national plan for the allocation of greenhouse gas emission allowances, forming criteria for project selection for the Decarbonization Fund, and by metallurgical enterprises to assess risks related to the implementation of the CBAM mechanism.
Originality. For the first time, the implementation of a two-level system of indicative indicators using flexible coefficients (restrictive $ko$ and motivational $km$) was proposed, which allows adapting the carbon regulation system to cyclical changes in industry and Ukraine's strategic decarbonization goals for 2030–2050.
Research limitations. Limitations are due to the complexity of obtaining verified data from enterprises located in combat zones or temporarily occupied territories, as well as high volatility in energy prices, which affects the energy balances of production.
Paper type. Research.
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References
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