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Climate changes
Did you know that more than 70 percent of global emissions come from energy and industrial activities according to the IPCC report? (https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/) This figure highlights that understanding how to calculate emissions is not only the responsibility of governments, but also an urgent need for businesses, communities, and organizations that want to take concrete action in addressing the climate crisis.
Emissions inventory is the foundation of any sustainability strategy. Without clear numbers, it is impossible to set credible emission reduction targets. This article helps you understand the basic guidelines of greenhouse gas emissions inventory, with a lighter and more educational approach that is relevant to the business context in Indonesia.
Have you ever heard companies mention their carbon footprint figures, such as 120 tons of CO2e per year? These numbers do not appear by chance. They are the result of a structured inventory process that follows global methodologies.
An emissions inventory is the process of identifying, collecting, calculating, and reporting greenhouse gas emissions generated by an entity. The guidelines commonly refer to the GHG Protocol (https://ghgprotocol.org) and IPCC Guidelines.
The main objectives include:
Why can two companies of similar size produce very different emissions calculations? One of the answers lies in defining organizational boundaries.
Under the GHG Protocol, there are two main approaches:
Choosing organizational boundaries is crucial because it determines the scope of data that must be collected.
According to the GHG Protocol, emission sources are categorized into three main scopes:
Scope 3 often presents challenges for companies due to its wide coverage. However, it is usually the largest contributor to total emissions. Understanding priorities greatly helps in data collection.
Have you ever found emissions data difficult to collect because it is scattered across multiple departments? This is why inventory guidelines emphasize the importance of systems and internal coordination.
Commonly collected data includes:
Data quality strongly determines calculation accuracy. Primary data is preferable, but secondary data can still be used as long as the methodology is clearly explained.
The IPCC states that emissions calculations depend on the appropriateness of the emission factors used (https://www.ipcc-nggip.iges.or.jp). Emission factors are conversion values used to translate activity data into emissions.
Once all data has been calculated, the next step is to prepare an emissions report that is transparent, concise, and consistent. Reports are generally structured into:
A well prepared report can be used for audits, ESG reporting, and sustainability certification.
Some challenges commonly faced by companies, especially in the distribution, manufacturing, and logistics sectors, include:
Despite these challenges, they create opportunities to improve data governance and strengthen a culture of sustainability.
In the digital era, more companies are turning to automated solutions to calculate emissions quickly and accurately. Platforms such as carbon management tools can:
Technology turns the inventory process from a compliance requirement into a strategic tool.
Emissions inventory is the first step in starting a sustainability journey. With the right methodology, valid data, and technological support, the process becomes far more effective.
If you want to calculate business emissions in a practical and credible way, Jejakin offers CarbonIQ to help companies measure, monitor, and manage emissions comprehensively. You can start with one business unit and expand as your needs grow.
Start your decarbonization journey now, one accurate data point at a time.
Jejakin’s green programs combine high-tech monitoring, biodiversity restoration, and community-led initiatives to deliver powerful, sustainable change across ecosystems.
