Life cycle sustainability assessment of the platinum supply chain in the European Union

Abstract

This study investigates the sustainability of platinum, designated a “critical raw material” by the European Commission. Platinum has an essential role in automotive catalysts and hydrogen fuel cells, pivotal for the energy transition. This research examines the sustainability of platinum, extending the scope to incorporate social and economic factors, contrary to the predominant tendency of focusing solely on environmental aspects. First, a Material Flow Analysis (MFA) maps the platinum supply chain, identifying critical nodes within it. Second, a sustainability assessment is performed, including an environmental, social, and economic assessment of the supply chain, in order to evaluate the total impact and therefore the sustainability of the use of platinum. The integration of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) with input-output matrices (Environmentally-Extended Multi-Regional Input-Output or EEMRIO method), allows for a regional analysis to locate the main sources of impact. Finally, an equilibrium range for sustainability assessment (ERSA) is proposed to guide European policies, striving for a balance among environmental, social, and economic impacts, particularly comparing primary with secondary production, and primary production outside and inside the EU. The results show that secondary production of platinum causes a substantial drop in CO2-eq emissions (100.9 %) and labour hours (78.9 %), but the costs increase significantly compared to primary production. A balanced approach between primary and secondary production (50–55 % recycling) is recommended to enhance environmental, economic, and social sustainability. The production of platinum in the European Union (EU) results in a 32 % reduction in CO2-eq emissions and 94 % fewer labour hours, but costs increase by 55.2 % compared to production in non-EU countries. The equilibrium range for sustainability assessment (ERSA) would be such that 27–53 % of the total consumption of platinum in EU is produced within EU countries. Knowledge about the platinum supply chain and the environmental, social, and economic impacts produced (in different stages or countries) is fundamental to establishing short- and long-term economic and environmental strategies.