What is the purpose of a greenhouse gas statement?

The purpose of a greenhouse gas statement is to quantify an entity's greenhouse gas emissions. This statement provides a systematic measurement of the emissions produced by an organization, which may include direct emissions from owned or controlled sources and indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling consumed by the reporting entity. By quantifying these emissions, organizations can assess their carbon footprint, identify areas for emission reductions, and make more informed decisions regarding sustainability strategies.

This quantification is essential for managing environmental impact, complying with regulations, and communicating sustainability efforts to stakeholders. It enables businesses to set targets for reducing emissions and track progress over time, fostering accountability and transparency in their environmental practices. This foundational data also serves to support broader initiatives, such as voluntary reporting standards or compliance with mandatory regulations, but the core purpose remains focused on the measurement aspect.