Understanding GHG accounting: a guide for businesses

Greenhouse Gas (GHG) accounting might sound complicated, but it's actually a straightforward concept. It's all about keeping track of the emissions your business produces. Why is this important? Because understanding your emissions is the first step towards reducing them and becoming more sustainable.


GHG accounting involves three 'scopes'. Scope 1 covers direct emissions from your business activities. Scope 2 covers indirect emissions from the energy you use. Scope 3 covers other indirect emissions, like those from your supply chain.

By doing GHG accounting, you can identify where most of your emissions come from and find ways to reduce them. This can also save you money in the long run and make your business more attractive to environmentally conscious customers.

For a more comprehensive understanding of GHG accounting, the GHG Protocol is a valuable resource. The GHG Protocol is a widely used international standard for how to measure, manage, and report greenhouse gas emissions. It provides businesses with a framework to understand, quantify, and manage greenhouse gas emissions, thereby contributing to more sustainable operations.