In order to co-ordinate the data from the series of Biffaward mass balance studies a framework has been developed that allows resource flow data for geographical areas, industrial sectors or specific resource types to be held in a common database. Ensuring that the data outputs of the projects are compatible means that the projects add value to each other rather than existing as separate and unconnected projects. The data from the projects can, therefore, build up over time to create both a cross-sectoral and geographical picture of resource flows.
The basis of the mass balance framework is a set of conventions for classifying materials, products, geographical regions and industries. A lack of consistent classification of data has frequently been a major barrier to the amalgamation of datasets and, therefore, a series of widely applied classification schemes have been suggested as a standard for mass balance data.
In the framework, geographical regions are classified according to a hierarchical scheme with the UK as the primary geographical unit, with countries, Government Office regions and Local Authorities in subsequent levels. Industries and industrial sectors are classified according to the UK Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes. These codes are widely used, for instance in the National Accounts and the Environmental Accounts, and provide a comprehensive and unambiguous structure for referring to industrial activities.