emissionsprofil

Emissionsprofil, or emissions profile, is a quantitative description of the greenhouse gas emissions associated with an entity, activity, or product over a defined period, typically measured in metric tons of CO2 equivalent. It is used to understand where emissions come from and how they change over time.

It is usually broken down by sources and gases. Common breakdowns include scope-based categories (scope 1 direct emissions, scope 2 indirect from purchased electricity, and scope 3 other indirect emissions) or by activity sectors such as energy use, transportation, industry, and supply chain. Emission types include CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, often aggregated as CO2e.

Calculation relies on activity data (fuel use, energy consumption, production volumes) and emission factors, following recognized methodologies such as the GHG Protocol, IPCC guidelines, or ISO 14064. Data quality and transparency are key to a credible profile.

Uses include benchmarking performance, setting reduction targets, reporting to regulators and investors, and guiding decarbonization strategies at corporate, product, or regional levels. Emissions profiles can be prepared for organizations, facilities, products, or geographic areas.

For products, the profile often relates to life cycle emissions from cradle to grave and may use product category rules and LCA methods. For regions or cities, profiles inform policy design and climate planning.

Limitations include data gaps, time lags, varying methodologies, and uncertainties in emission factors. Profiles should be accompanied by documentation of methods and assumptions to ensure comparability.