FAQ: What are Scope 1 Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions?

Scope 1, 2 and 3 are different types of emissions. They are defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which is an international accounting tool that governments and businesses use to track and report their greenhouse gas emissions. They exist to stop double-counting. Emission fall into these categories based on their source, and are used to measure the carbon footprint of an organisation or individual.

– Scope 1 – These emissions are direct emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organisation or individual. Examples include emissions from on-site combustion of fossil fuels (e.g. boilers and vehicles) and emissions from industrial processes.

– Scope 2 – These emissions are caused indirectly from the generation of purchased electricity, heat, or steam that an organisation or individual consumes. These emissions are generated by power plants and other energy suppliers and are considered indirect because they are not under the control of the organisation or individual.

– Scope 3 – These emissions are all other indirect emissions not included in Scope 2. Examples include emissions from the production of purchased goods and services, waste disposal, and employee commuting. It is important that businesses and individuals understand Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, recording this information and using it to inform strategies to reduce their emissions, helping to move towards a low-carbon future.