In a world increasingly focused on decarbonization and environmental accountability, the ability to accurately quantify a product’s carbon footprint has become essential. Recognizing this, Amorim Cork Solutions, in collaboration with a partner, has developed a Carbon Footprint Tool that enhances its sustainability strategy by combining technological innovation with internationally recognized methodologies.
Designed to quantify CO₂ emissions throughout the industrial life cycle of products (cradle-to-gate), the tool is already being applied across various areas of the company’s portfolio, including sealing and vibration control solutions, where both technical performance and sustainability are critical factors in decision-making.
A New Paradigm in Environmental Analysis
The carbon footprint reflects the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions expressed in tons of CO₂ equivalent, associated with a product, process, or organization. This includes both direct emissions, such as those from fossil fuels, and indirect emissions, such as electricity consumption or the transport of raw materials.
To ensure reliability and comparability, the tool was developed in accordance with internationally recognized standards. These include ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, which establish the principles and framework for Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), as well as ISO 14067, which specifically focuses on Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) and incorporates the beneficial effects of carbon sequestration by forests.
The credibility of the results is ensured by an independent verification process conducted by APCER, which confirms compliance with key international standards, reinforcing stakeholders’ trust in the implemented assessment system.
Cork: A Measurable Environmental Asset
In Amorim T&D and Amorim Tech Seal solutions, cork plays a central role not only for its technical performance but also for its distinctive environmental value. As a natural and renewable material with carbon sequestration capacity, cork positively contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the products in which it is used.
By using the Digital Carbon Footprint Tool, Amorim Cork Solutions is now able to provide clients and the market with concrete and measurable values regarding the CO₂ emissions of its materials upon request.
For example, in the case of TD1049, a cork-based material used as a gasket and recommended for most transformer oils, a roll with typical dimensions of 1020 mm x 6 mm x 11 m has a carbon footprint of -37 kg CO₂ per roll.
In vibration control solutions, using VC2100 material, applied as a vibration pad, a plate with dimensions of 1270 mm x 500 mm x 35 mm has a carbon footprint of -18 kg CO₂ per plate.
The development of this tool represents a strategic milestone in Amorim Cork Solutions' sustainability policy, consolidating its commitment to responsible innovation and supporting industries in achieving their environmental goals.
