Home/Climate Tech Foundations/Scopes 1, 2, 3 Emissions/Introduction

Understanding Emission Scopes

Master the GHG Protocol framework and learn how to categorize and measure greenhouse gas emissions across your entire organization

Your Progress

Section 1 of 5

Introduction

Scope 1: Direct Emissions

Scope 2: Indirect Energy

Scope 3: Value Chain

Key Takeaways

The GHG Protocol: A Global Standard

The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard 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 emission scopes is essential for effective climate action, as each scope requires different measurement methods and reduction strategies.

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 Scope Visualizer

Select Company Type to See Emission Breakdown

Emission Scope Breakdown

Direct Emissions(25%)

Emissions from owned or controlled sources

Indirect Energy(30%)

Emissions from purchased electricity and heat

Value Chain(45%)

All other indirect emissions in the value chain

🏭

Scope 1

Direct Emissions

⚡

Scope 2

Indirect Energy

🔗

Scope 3

Value Chain

Key Insight

Most companies are surprised to learn that Scope 3 emissions typically represent the largest portion of their carbon footprint. Understanding all three scopes is crucial for comprehensive emission reduction strategies.