What Is ISCC-Certified Pyrolysis Oil?

As global emphasis on sustainable development intensifies, pyrolysis oil is gaining increasing attention in the energy, chemical, and materials sectors. However, the commercialization of pyrolysis oil still faces challenges, such as complex feedstock sources and fluctuating product quality. In this context, ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) has become a key framework, bridging the pyrolysis industry and the international green market, ensuring pyrolysis oil meets stringent sustainability and traceability standards.

What Is ISCC?

ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) is a globally recognised sustainability certification system that covers all sustainable feedstocks, including agricultural and forestry biomass, biogenic wastes and residues, circular materials, and renewables. ISCC is among the world’s largest certification systems. The ISCC system is continuously developing in response to regulatory developments, market demand, and technological advancements. As of 2025, it mainly includes the following:

ISCC EU

It is recognised by the European Commission to demonstrate compliance with the sustainability criteria for biofuels and bioliquids set out in the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) and by the United Kingdom under the renewable fuel obligation.

ISCC PLUS

It is a voluntary sustainability certification for plastics and chemicals, food and feed markets, as well as biofuels outside the European Union and the UK.

ISCC CORSIA

It is recognised by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) for the certification of CORSIA-eligible sustainable aviation fuels.

ISCC Japan FIT

It is recognised by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) for the procurement of biomass fuels eligible under the Japan Feed-inTariff system. Materials cerified under this scheme can be used for the production of renewable electricity in Japan under the FIT system.

ISCC Carbon Footprint Certification

It enables the certification of product carbon footprints for various products and value chains.

ISCC Canada CFR

Environment And Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has confirmed that ISCC Canada CFR meets the requirements for certification under section 62 of Canada’s CFR. This recognition is based on the ISCC PLUS certification requirements, which will serve as the baseline for the ISCC Canada CFR certification scheme.

What Is ISCC-Certified Pyrolysis Oil?

ISCC-certified pyrolysis oil refers to pyrolysis oil products produced through sustainable methods and certified under the ISCC system. It can be certified under ISCC PLUS for entry into the sustainable chemicals market or under ISCC EU for use within the fuel system. The ISCC-certified pyrolysis oil produced by pyrolysis system complies with the following sustainability criteria:

Traceable Feedstock

The feedstock used must be traceable and derived from sustainable waste or residues, such as waste plastics or used rubber.

Standardized Processing Procedures

The pyrolysis process must adhere to the technical specifications defined by the ISCC system, ensuring that the entire production process meets sustainability requirements.

Quantifiable Carbon Emissions

The production process must comply with greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction requirements, ensuring that the carbon footprint is measurable, reportable, and provides emission reduction benefits.

Full-chain Monitoring and Management

The entire value chain—from feedstock collection, transportation, pyrolysis processing, and product storage and distribution to end use—must be included within the ISCC system, enabling full traceability and supply chain management.

Why Is ISCC Critical for the Pyrolysis Oil?

Offer Opportunity to Enter the Global Supply Chain

ISCC-certified pyrolysis oil are recognized by major global chemical companies such as Shell, Dow, BASF, and LyondellBasell. This lets it join fossil feedstock replacement programs and international sustainable supply chains.

Ensures Sustainability and Environmental Compliance

ISCC requires full traceability across the entire production chain. This guarantees compliance with standards for sustainability, greenhouse gas reduction, and social responsibility at every stage. This helps enterprises meet regulatory requirements.

Enhance Product Value and Brand Credibility

ISCC certification provides authoritative validation for pyrolysis oil products, elevating their economic value. It significantly strengthens a company’s position in areas such as carbon footprint accounting, and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance assessments.

Unlocks Carbon Credits and Policy Incentives

In regions such as the European Union, ISCC-certified products may qualify for renewable energy subsidies, carbon reduction quotas, and green labeling schemes. These benefits facilitate project financing and accelerate commercialization efforts.

How to Obtain ISCC Certification

Obtaining ISCC certification is not an overnight process. It requires comprehensive evaluation and rigorous third-party audits. Below is a simplified overview of the key steps involved:

Advancing Pyrolysis Oil into the Green Value Chain

ISCC-certified pyrolysis oil represents the future of materials and energy — low-carbon, traceable, and circular. In the context of global carbon neutrality goals and the transformation of green supply chains, ISCC certification allows pyrolysis companies to boost product competitiveness while delivering greater value to customers. We believe that with ongoing policy support and growing market demand, ISCC certification will become a key driver for the healthy and sustainable development of the pyrolysis oil industry.