Determination of critical emission sources in bitumen production plants by pareto analysis

In this study, a carbon footprint assessment was conducted at the Unka Sun bitumen production facility in Iraq, covering the period from September 26 to 29, 2024. Emission sources were systematically identified using Pareto analysis. The calculations revealed a total emission of 358.05 tons of CO₂ equivalent, with an average daily emission of 89.5 tons of CO₂ equivalent. Emissions were calculated according to the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol and guidelines provided by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC 2006). Emissions were categorized into three scopes. Scope 1 emissions, resulting directly from fuel combustion and production processes within the facility, accounted for 95% of total emissions. The facility had no Scope 2 emissions, which relate to indirect emissions from electricity consumption. Scope 3 emissions, originating outside the direct control of the facility—such as raw material supply, product transportation, logistics activities, and waste management—were determined to be 3.86 tons per day. Pareto analysis indicated that fuel combustion accounted for 62% of the facility's total carbon footprint, while production processes contributed 30%, and logistics activities contributed 8%. To reduce emissions, it is recommended that burners and boilers be upgraded, combustible waste gases recovered, renewable energy sources adopted, operational procedures optimized, and transportation activities minimized. This study aligns with international standards and is expected to contribute to the literature as a model for energy-intensive production facilities.