Understanding Emission Scopes
The GHG Protocol framework categorizes emissions into three scopes to help organizations measure and manage their carbon footprint
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Section 3 of 5The GHG Protocol: A Global Standard
The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol provides the world's most widely used framework for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. It categorizes emissions into three scopes to help organizations understand their full carbon footprint and develop comprehensive reduction strategies.
This standardized approach ensures consistency in emissions reporting and allows for meaningful comparisons between organizations. Understanding scopes is essential for developing effective net zero strategies, as each scope requires different approaches to measurement and reduction.
Why Scopes Matter
Different scopes have different levels of control and reduction potential. Scope 1 emissions are directly controllable, while Scope 3 emissions often represent the largest opportunity but require collaboration across value chains.
Interactive Emission Scopes Explorer
Direct Emissions
Scope 1Emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company
Indirect Energy
Scope 2Emissions from purchased electricity, heat, and steam
Value Chain
Scope 3All other indirect emissions in the value chain
Emission Scopes by Industry
Automotive Manufacturer
Technology Company
Retail Chain
Key Insight
Scope 3 emissions often represent the largest portion of a company's carbon footprint, but they're also the most challenging to measure and reduce. Effective net zero strategies require addressing all three scopes.