What is CBAM?
The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, or CBAM, is a regulatory framework that applies a carbon cost to imported goods with high embedded emissions. Its purpose is to prevent carbon leakage and ensure that imported products are subject to similar carbon standards as domestic production.
CBAM introduces new requirements for businesses to understand product classifications, engage with suppliers, collect emissions data, and assess carbon cost exposure across their supply chains.
Why CBAM matters
The EU CBAM definitive phase began on 1 January 2026. The UK CBAM is expected to apply from 1 January 2027 and will initially cover aluminium, cement, fertiliser, hydrogen, iron and steel.
Businesses that act early can reduce compliance risks, avoid supplier data gaps, and make more informed procurement and pricing decisions.
How CBAM benefits your business
- Improves visibility over supplier emissions and product level carbon data
- Reduces compliance risk by identifying in-scope goods early
- Supports better procurement decisions using carbon insight
- Helps anticipate carbon related cost exposure and protect margins
- Strengthens credibility with customers and stakeholders
How SustainZone supports CBAM
SustainZone helps organisations assess CBAM exposure, collect supplier emissions data, calculate embedded emissions, and prepare structured outputs for EU and UK CBAM readiness.
CBAM Exposure Assessment
Identify whether imported goods, suppliers, and materials fall within CBAM scope and where action is required first.
Supplier Data Collection
Build supplier workflows to collect emissions data and supporting evidence for reporting.
Embedded Emissions Calculation
Estimate carbon intensity using supplier data, default values, and documented assumptions.
Reporting and Readiness Support
Prepare outputs for compliance teams, procurement, finance planning, and future verification.
Our approach
- Review imported goods, suppliers, and product categories
- Map CBAM exposure across EU and UK requirements
- Collect supplier emissions data and identify gaps
- Calculate embedded emissions and prepare reporting outputs
Not sure if CBAM applies to your business?
We can help you review your imports, supplier data, and product categories to understand your exposure before compliance deadlines create pressure.
Start CBAM Readiness Review
