Measuring Carbon Emissions
Carbon emissions can be measured using a variety of methods, depending on the source of emissions and the level of detail required. The most commonly used methods include:
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Direct measurement: This involves measuring the quantity of emissions from a specific source, such as a power plant or factory, using instruments such as gas analysers or flow meters.
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Estimation based on activity data: This involves estimating emissions based on data about the activity that generates the emissions, such as the amount of fuel consumed or the number of miles driven. This method is often used to estimate emissions from transportation, buildings, and other sectors.
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Life cycle analysis: This involves analysing the emissions associated with the entire life cycle of a product, from raw materials extraction to disposal. This method takes into account emissions associated with all stages of the product life cycle, including production, transportation, and use.
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Emission factors: This involves using standardized emission factors to estimate emissions based on activity data. Emission factors are based on average emissions per unit of activity, such as emissions per unit of electricity generated or per unit of fuel consumed.
Once emissions have been measured, they can be reported and tracked using various tools and frameworks, such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, the Carbon Disclosure Project, or the Science Based Targets initiative. These frameworks provide guidelines and standards for measuring, reporting, and verifying emissions data, as well as for setting emissions reduction targets and tracking