How to Calculate?

The Basic Formula

The fundamental equation for calculating greenhouse gas emissions is:

• Activity Data: A quantitative measure of an activity that results in emissions (e.g., liters of fuel consumed, kilowatt-hours of electricity used, kilograms of material purchased).
• Emission Factor: A factor that converts activity data into GHG emissions (e.g., kg CO2e per liter of diesel).

Step-by-Step Process

1. Define Boundaries: Decide what to include (e.g., specific products, entire company operations).
2. Identify Emission Sources: List all activities that generate greenhouse gases within your boundaries.
3. Collect Data: Gather accurate activity data (invoices, meter readings, Bill of Materials).
4. Select Emission Factors: Use reputable databases (like IPCC, DEFRA, or EPA) to find the correct factors for your activities.
5. Calculate: Multiply data by factors and aggregate the results.

Product Carbon Footprint (PCF)

Calculating the footprint of a specific product often involves a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which looks at emissions from "cradle to grave" or "cradle to gate".

• Raw Materials: Extraction and processing of inputs.
• Manufacturing: Energy and resources used in production.
• Distribution: Transportation to the customer.
• Use Phase: Emissions generated while using the product.
• End-of-Life: Disposal, recycling, or incineration.