An Introduction to the GHG Protocol
Greenhouse Gases are gases that absorb and emit radiation within the thermal infrared range. Those in Earths atmosphere are mostly water vapour, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide and ozone. Whilst necessary, as without them the Earths temperature would be around -18°C, humans have caused an increase of 40% in the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide, which in turn is leading to the warming of the planet and other associated issues such as ocean acidification, rising sea levels and species loss. It is therefore vital that we stay aware of our impact on the planet, and do our best to manage greenhouse gas emissions.
What is the GHG Protocol?
The GHG Protocol is the most widely used accounting tool to manage, understand and quantify greenhouse gas emissions. Used by government and business leaders, the GHG Protocol is a decade-long partnership between the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). It serves as the foundation for almost every greenhouse gas standard in the world, as well as offering an internationally accepted tool for businesses to compete in a global marketplace.
Why are we getting involved?
We are now working towards achieving the GHG Protocol Mark, which will allow us to have the backing of the WRI and the WBCSD on the certifications we issue. Our tool will adhere to their standards, enabled by our BETA customers who have enabled us to pay for the audit. This will enable us to help companies achieve further certification, beyond the ISO 14001, ISO 50001, ISO 20121, BS 8555 and B Corp certifications we already offer.
What the GHG Protocol means for us
Being a part of the GHG protocol means a lot to us. It goes beyond allowing companies to measure, manage and report their greenhouse gases, as it gives our customers a competitive edge on the marketplace. In 2016, at least 92% of Fortune 500 companies responding to the Carbon Disclosure Project used the GHG Protocol, only strengthening its reputation amongst market leaders. Incorporating this into our system facilitates competition with these corporations, and will allow businesses with our certification to strengthen their position.
The GHG Protocol will allow us to strengthen our carbon footprint certification, and put your business in a better position as a B-Corp. If you have any questions about the GHG Protocol or your organisations carbon emissions, get in touch with us via our contact page.