GHG Emissions Measurement
Below, you’ll find a concise overview of the methods used to measure greenhouse gas emissions. Click on the provided links for our more in-depth explanations.
What are Scope 1, 2, 3 Emissions?
The GHG Protocol has emerged as the prevailing benchmark for assessing an organization’s greenhouse gas emissions, serving as the de facto standard in the field. It offers a structured framework for classifying various emissions, both direct and indirect, into three distinct categories known as Scopes 1, 2, and 3. This classification system not only facilitates a comprehensive understanding of an organization’s carbon footprint but also empowers businesses and institutions to strategically manage and mitigate their environmental impact. By delineating emissions sources and responsibilities across different scopes, the GHG Protocol has helped to foster a more organized approach for businesses to tackle their climate goals.
GHG Measurement Standards
In addition to its widely recognized and influential Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions standards, the GHG Protocol has defined and established various other emissions measurement standards. These additional standards serve to enhance the organization’s comprehensive approach to sustainability and greenhouse gas management. By continually expanding its framework, the GHG Protocol accommodates a broader spectrum of emissions sources and measurement criteria, thereby enabling organizations to develop a more nuanced and precise understanding of their climate impact. These supplementary standards underscore the GHG Protocol’s pivotal role as a key driver in measuring and managing GHG emissions across industries worldwide.
GHG Protocol Corporate Standard
The Corporate Standard is a foundational guide that plays a vital role in facilitating the measurement of an organization’s greenhouse gas emissions across the three distinct scopes: Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3. Within this comprehensive standard, a critical aspect lies in delineating the intricate boundaries for reporting emissions. These boundaries encompass not only which entities or subsidiaries should be included but also extend to defining the specific operations and activities that fall under the purview of emissions calculation. While the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard offers a meticulous and detailed exploration of Scope 1 emissions, it takes a more focused and nuanced approach to Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions. For these latter scopes, organizations can refer to supplementary standards, which provide in-depth and specialized guidance, enabling a more comprehensive understanding and accurate measurement of their emissions within the broader context of their value chains and indirect impacts.