A chain of custody standard is needed to link ResponsibleSteel certified steel producers with steel users. An effective standard has to be practical for steelmakers, manufacturers and end-users to implement, support credible claims, create value, and above all else drive sustainability across the steel sector.

ResponsibleSteel asked OneWorldStandards to consider the full range of chain of custody options, from identity preservation and segregation through to ‘mass balance’ and ‘book and claim’, and to work with civil society and other stakeholders from steelmaking, manufacturing, construction and automotive supply chains to develop ResponsibleSteel’s downstream chain of custody system.

During the first phase of the project core concepts were discussed with stakeholders, international ‘green claims’ legislation was reviewed, and the language and specifications for the labelling of ResponsibleSteel certified steel products were developed. In a second phase a formal chain of custody standard was drafted for public consultation.

OneWorldStandards continues to support ResponsibleSteel as the standard is further refined.