scope1

Scope 1 refers to direct greenhouse gas emissions that occur from sources owned or controlled by an organization. This includes emissions from stationary combustion, such as fossil fuels burned in boilers, furnaces, or kilns; mobile combustion from company-owned vehicles and equipment; process emissions from chemical reactions during production; and fugitive emissions, such as leaks of refrigerants or natural gas from equipment.

Measurement and reporting of Scope 1 emissions typically follow the Greenhouse Gas Protocol framework. Emissions are usually reported as metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MtCO2e) and are calculated from activity data (fuel consumption, energy use, distance traveled) multiplied by emission factors. It may also cover non-CO2 greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide where applicable. Some sectors may distinguish biogenic CO2, depending on national or organizational accounting rules.

Relation to other scopes is a key feature: Scope 1 covers direct emissions, while Scope 2 encompasses indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat, or steam, and Scope 3 includes other indirect emissions across the value chain. Scope 1 is often the largest or most controllable portion of an organization’s emissions, making it a primary focus for reduction strategies.

Regulatory and planning contexts use Scope 1 data for setting climate targets, risk assessments, and disclosure. Reporting frameworks and standards such as the GHG Protocol, CDP, and aligned ISO standards guide measurement, verification, and public reporting. Jurisdictions may require Scope 1 reporting for specific industries or organizations.

Challenges in Scope 1 accounting include accurately estimating fugitive emissions, handling variations in fuel types and processes, and integrating data from dispersed operations. Proper governance and transparent methodology help ensure consistent, credible emissions inventories.