Understanding Emission Factors
Discover how emission factors convert everyday activities into greenhouse gas emissions
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Section 1 of 5What Are Emission Factors?
Emission factors are conversion factors that translate activity data into greenhouse gas emissions. They represent the amount of CO₂ equivalent emitted per unit of activity, such as kilograms of CO₂ per kilowatt-hour of electricity or per kilometer driven.
These factors are essential for carbon accounting because they allow organizations to calculate their emissions based on measurable activities rather than direct emission measurements, which are often impractical or expensive.
The Magic Formula
Emissions = Activity Data × Emission Factor
This simple equation is the foundation of carbon accounting worldwide.
Interactive Emission Factor Discovery Tool
Explore different categories of emission factors and discover how everyday activities translate into greenhouse gas emissions. Click on categories and specific factors to learn more.
Why Emission Factors Matter
- • Convert activity data into greenhouse gas emissions
- • Enable accurate carbon accounting and reporting
- • Vary by region, technology, and time period
- • Critical for setting reduction targets and tracking progress
- • Based on scientific research and international standards