The GHG Protocol: the accounting standard behind UK SRS emissions

The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol is the global standard for measuring and reporting corporate greenhouse-gas emissions. It underpins almost every major climate-reporting framework including CDP, ISSB standards, EU CSRD and others. UK SRS S2 mandates its use for emissions measurement.

Scope 1 covers direct emissions from sources a company owns or controls. Scope 2 covers indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heat and cooling. Scope 3 covers all other indirect emissions across the value chain, upstream and downstream — usually the largest share of a company's footprint.

Yes, UK SRS S2 mandates disclosure of absolute gross emissions in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, calculated using the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard, across all three scopes. Companies must also disclose their measurement methodology and assumptions.

UK companies must use the UK Government's GHG Conversion Factors for Company Reporting, published annually by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). Using current-year factors is essential — out-of-date factors are among the most common reporting errors.

Yes, the GHG Protocol is undergoing its biggest revision since the Scope 3 Standard launched, updating its entire corporate suite. The Scope 2 consultation received over 400 responses in late 2025/early 2026, with final revised standards planned for end of 2027. A new ISO partnership will harmonise carbon accounting standards.