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Data Checklist for DRI (Direct Reduced Iron)

Updated this week

This checklist helps non-EU suppliers and exporters understand which data points are needed for calculating CBAM emissions for DRI (Direct Reduced Iron). The process supports the most common production routes—DRI and DRI using Hydrogen—to ensure accurate and efficient emissions reporting.


🔍 Step 1: Identify Your Product and CN Code

What to do: Determine if your product falls within the “DRI” category.

Why it matters: The CN code defines the emissions data requirements for CBAM compliance.

How to proceed:

  • Refer to the EU’s CBAM guidance to find the correct CN code for DRI (e.g., 7203 10 00 for DRI in lumps, pellets or similar forms).

  • Confirm the classification specifically identifies Direct Reduced Iron.

  • Record your CN code for accurate tracking and emissions reporting.


⚙️ Step 2: Select Your Production Method

What to do: Identify which DRI production method is used at your facility.

Why it matters: Different production methods (e.g., with natural gas vs. hydrogen) produce different levels of emissions and require different input tracking.

How to proceed:

Choose one of the following production methods:

  • DRI (Natural Gas or Syngas-based)

  • DRI using Hydrogen

🔎 Note: Emissions data collection will adapt based on your selected method to ensure accuracy and CBAM alignment.


🔌 3. Collect Data

What to do: Record all data points used in your production, ranging from materials/precursors to electricity used in production. Make sure to collect the data for a whole year and for the total amount of DRI produced.

Why it matters: Emissions are primarily driven by the reducing agent and energy source used in DRI production.

How to proceed:

  • List precursor materials used such as Ferro-alloys,DRI, Pig iron, Hydrogen or Sintered ore

  • Reach out to suppliers for emissions factors or use approved default values.

  • Log total energy used (e.g., electricity) and other production metrics tied to your selected production method over each reporting period.


📊 Step 4: Get Emissions Calculations and Reporting

What to do: Record total DRI output and track emissions over the reporting period.

Why it matters: Emissions per tonne must be calculated for CBAM declarations and internal ESG tracking.

How to proceed:

  • Go to the Product Emissions module in your platform.

  • Submit input material data based on your selected production method.

  • Review calculated emissions per tonne of DRI output.

  • Use the results for your CBAM reports and internal carbon accounting.

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