CPA Ontario Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Measurement and Reporting Guide. Learn the six essential steps for effective greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting and reporting based on the greenhouse gas protocol. Click to download the guide now.

Introducing the CPA Ontario Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Measurement and Reporting Guide

Whether voluntarily or due to regulatory requirements, organizations across the globe are recognizing the need to measure, manage, and report their carbon emissions accurately. While the focus has been on carbon as it is the most significant greenhouse gas (GHG) contributing to climate change the need to reduce other GHGs, such as methane, is growing.

That’s why CPA Ontario is proud to present this Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Measurement and Reporting Guide (Guide). This Guide is designed to provide comprehensive, non-authoritative guidance to organizations and CPAs involved in GHG accounting. It offers insights and practical steps to help navigate the complexities of GHG measurement and reporting.

This Guide outlines six essential steps for effective GHG accounting and reporting based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. It begins with identifying the relevant regulatory and reporting frameworks, followed by thorough planning and preparation to establish a solid foundation. The Guide then covers best practices for data collection and management, accurate emissions calculations, and comprehensive GHG inventory reporting. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of robust documentation and recordkeeping to ensure transparency and readiness for external assurance.

The 6 key steps set out in the guide are:

  1. Regulatory and Reporting Framework Identification: Understand the various international, national, and local regulations that apply to your organization. Learn how to select the appropriate reporting framework and align your internal processes with external deadlines.
  2. Planning and Preparation: Define your organizational and operational boundaries, establish criteria for base year selection, and identify key stakeholders. This section ensures that you have a solid foundation for accurate GHG accounting.
  3. Data Collection and Management: Discover best practices for identifying data sources, documenting data collection procedures, and ensuring data quality. Learn how to handle data gaps and use proxy data when necessary.
  4. Emissions Calculations: Gain insights into selecting appropriate calculation methodologies, identifying emission factors, and performing accurate emissions calculations. This section also covers the importance of documenting assumptions and methodologies used.
  5. GHG Inventory Reporting: Prepare a comprehensive GHG inventory report that includes key findings, emissions totals by scope, and significant changes from previous reporting periods. Learn how to conduct an internal review and approval process to ensure the accuracy and completeness of your report.
  6. Documentation and Record Keeping: Establish a robust system for maintaining an audit trail, archiving documents, and protecting sensitive data. This section also provides guidance on preparing for external assurance, if applicable.

Get Started Today

Organizations can use this guide to streamline their GHG reporting processes and enhance their compliance. By following these steps, they can achieve more accurate and reliable GHG inventories, supporting their sustainability goals. We invite you to explore the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Measurement and Reporting Guide and take the first step towards more effective and reliable GHG accounting. Access the Guide here.