GHG Protocol

The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol is the most widely used international accounting framework for quantifying and managing GHG emissions from private and public sector operations, value chains, and products. Developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), the GHG Protocol’s Corporate Standard (2004) defines Scope 1, 2, and 3 emission categories. IFRS S2 mandates the use of GHG Protocol as the measurement standard for corporate GHG disclosures. The GHG Protocol is undergoing its first major revision of its corporate suite of standards, with updates to the Scope 3 standard currently under public consultation (final standard expected 2027). In September 2025, ISO and the GHG Protocol announced plans to harmonize their standards.

GHG Protocol Corporate Standard (2004, under revision); GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard (2011, under revision); IFRS S2, paragraph 29 (mandates GHG Protocol use); ISO–GHG Protocol harmonisation announcement (September 2025).

The GHG Protocol is the mandatory measurement framework for IFRS S2, ESRS E1, California SB 253, and virtually all voluntary ESG frameworks. The ongoing Scope 3 standard revision (expected final 2027) introduces a proposed quantified coverage requirement (reported Scope 3 categories must cover 95% of estimated total Scope 3 emissions), more rigorous data quality requirements, and clearer guidance on exclusions. Companies should begin upgrading their Scope 3 data collection systems in anticipation.