From Scrap to Carbon Credit: The Math Behind CO² Compensation in Electronics Recycling

Introduction to CO² Offsetting in Electronics Recycling

Electronics recycling is a central element for reducing carbon dioxide (CO²) emissions and advancing sustainability in the technology sector. The mathematics behind CO² offsetting allows quantifying environmental impacts and generating effective carbon credits, in accordance with the guidelines of the National Climate Change Policy (Law No. 12,187/2009).

Legal Basis and Regulatory Framework

The Brazilian regulatory framework for monitoring and mitigating emissions is based on the National Climate Change Policy (Law No. 12,187/2009) and the National Information System on Solid Waste Management (SINIR - Decree No. 10,936/2022). These provisions establish rules for the proper disposal of electronic waste, enabling the generation of carbon credits according to national and international standards.

Collection and Recycling: Sources of Environmental Gains

The initial step consists of efficient electronic waste collection, which prevents irregular disposal and contributes to the recovery of recyclable materials. Recycling reduces the extraction of natural resources and the energy consumption of production processes, decreasing the emissions associated with the lifecycle of the equipment.

Mathematics of CO² Offsetting: Quantification and Methodology

The quantification of emissions avoided through recycling involves analyzing the embodied and avoided equivalent carbon in different stages of electronic waste management. The calculations consider factors such as the weight of processed scrap, recovered materials (metals, plastics), and the comparison between emissions from conventional and recycled processes.

One of the indicators used is Scope 3 of the GHG Protocol, which covers indirect emissions associated with the supply chain and disposal. The adopted methodology aligns with the Brazilian Carbon Credit Protocol (PBCC), established by the Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce, ensuring standardization and traceability.

Safe Disposal and Digital Sanitization

Issues related to privacy and information security are addressed with the proper safe disposal of media and hard drives, preventing data loss risks and complying with the General Data Protection Law (Law No. 13,709/2018). This procedure is essential to enable responsible recycling and issuance of carbon credit certificates.

Environmental Impacts and Socioeconomic Benefits

Beyond emissions mitigation, electronics recycling promotes the reduction of soil and water pollution, as indicated by CETESB in its official reports. Material reuse stimulates a circular economy, generating employment and encouraging low-carbon technologies.

Conclusion

The mathematics behind CO² offsetting in electronics recycling is based on precise calculations and standardized methodologies. The process results in carbon credits that highlight the sustainability of the recycling chain, aligned with current Brazilian regulations and best international practices.