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Tack: New PCF calculation tool for the adhesives and tapes industry
With the launch of the web-based tool Tack, IVK and Afera introduce a standardised and user-friendly solution for calculating Product Carbon Footprints (PCFs) of adhesives and tapes – even for users without LCA expertise. The tool aims to harmonise carbon accounting across the value chain.
The German Adhesives Association (IVK) and the European Tape Association (Afera) have jointly developed a new calculation tool for determining the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) of adhesives and tape products. The web-based application Tack (Tapes and Adhesives Calculation Kit), created in collaboration with software provider Sphera, is designed for use by manufacturers, converters and raw material suppliers across the supply chain.
Tack is based on international standards ISO 14067:2018 and ISO 14040:2006, and complies with the PCF Guideline issued by the industry initiative Together for Sustainability (TfS). The calculation methodology has been tailored specifically for the adhesives and tapes sectors and was pre-validated by DEKRA Assurance Services.
Standardised data for supply chain transparency
By offering a harmonised approach to PCF determination, Tack enables transparent, consistent data across all life cycle phases. “Tack is a real game-changer,” said Dr Vera Haye, Managing Director of IVK. The tool can be used by companies of all sizes and requires no prior knowledge of life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology.
Afera also sees clear advantages in the joint initiative. The tool was developed in close consultation with stakeholders from across the value chain and delivers reliable PCF results according to established norms. “Downstream users welcome the tool as it provides consistent and credible environmental impact data,” said Dr Pablo Englebienne, Regulatory Affairs and Sustainability Manager at Afera.
Tool supports sustainability transformation
To strengthen the credibility of the results, DEKRA evaluated the software model and functionality based on TfS standards. The endorsement by TfS followed shortly after: “The tool offers a clear, consistent and transparent calculation of PCF values for adhesives and tapes in line with the TfS guideline,” said Alessandro Pistillo, Co-Chair of the Scope 3 GHG Emissions Programme at TfS and BASF.
