Chain Custody
Administrative models track the volume of sustainable material through a supply chain where it might be mixed with conventional material. Under mass balance allocation, a linen mill can sell a specific quantity of fabric as certified sustainable if they have purchased an equivalent amount of certified flax fibre. This approach allows for the physical mixing of fibres during spinning while maintaining an administrative record of the sustainable volume.
Volumetric Reconciliation
Calculation of the final output involves subtracting the known waste percentages from the initial weight of the certified raw material. When a mill uses mass balance allocation, it must maintain a strictly audited ledger that proves the amount of certified yarn sold does not exceed the amount of certified fibre purchased. This system provides a practical way for mills to support sustainable farming without needing separate production lines for every grade.
It is a common requirement for global organic or recycled standards.
Audit Documentation
Verification of these records occurs during annual inspections by certification bodies. The mill must demonstrate that their mass balance allocation reflects the actual flow of materials through the factory. Any discrepancy in the ledger can lead to the loss of the mill’s right to use the certification label.
