Grossissions

Grossissions is a term used in environmental accounting to denote the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated by a defined system before any removals, offsets, or credits are applied. The term is not universally standardized and appears primarily in policy discussions and corporate carbon accounting as a contrast to net emissions. Because it emphasizes the total emissions burden without subtracting sequestration or offsetting activities, grossissions can serve as a baseline for tracking decarbonization progress.

Calculation and scope of grossissions can vary by organization or regulation. They may include direct emissions from on-site combustion (scope 1), energy-related emissions from purchased electricity or heat (scope 2), and, depending on boundary definitions, upstream and downstream emissions (scope 3). Calculation typically relies on activity data and emission factors. Boundaries are not uniform, which can lead to differences in reported grossissions between entities or frameworks.

Grossissions are related to net emissions but are not interchangeable. Net emissions equal grossissions minus removals and offsets. Presenting grossissions alongside net emissions helps clarify how much of the total burden remains after accounting for sequestration or crediting activities, and it highlights the impact of specific mitigation strategies.

Limitations and usage considerations include the potential for misinterpretation if boundaries are not clearly stated. The term is most informative when paired with a clear description of what is included in the boundary and when used in conjunction with net figures to illustrate progress toward decarbonization goals.