Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Verification Services
Greenhouse gas verification is an independent assessment of the reliability (considering completeness and accuracy) of a GHG inventory. Sweco’s carbon experts can provide various levels of assurance in line with ISO 14064/65, as well as onward carbon consultancy in net zero strategising and organisational GHG reporting.
Why do I need to ‘verify’ GHG emissions?
The primary aim of a verification audit or assessment is to provide confidence to businesses – and in turn their end customers – that the reported information and associated statements represent a faithful, true, and fair account of its GHG emissions.
GHG verification services are usually required by any organisation reporting on their GHG Emissions. It is a key step to demonstrate that the methodology used aligns with the relevant standards and ensure consistency for quantifying, monitoring and reporting emissions. Verification also enhances credibility and transparency and facilitates the ability to track performance and progress in the reduction of GHG emissions.
Auditing is part of a verification process to ensure that a third party validates the assessment process and reporting. The objective of the audit is to reach a conclusion about the accuracy of the GHG statement and the conformity of the statement.
To support clients through their net zero journey, Sweco can provide verification planning, 360-degree emissions reviews, record auditing, reporting and validation services for complete peace of mind – as well as documented assessments for outward credibility.
What exactly are greenhouse gases?
Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) are the six gases listed in the Kyoto Protocol: carbon dioxide (CO2); methane (CH4); nitrous oxide (N2O); hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs); perfluorocarbons (PFCs); and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6).
When it comes to verifying these GHGs, the British Standard on the verification of GHG assertions (BS EN ISO 14064-3:2019) sets out two general levels of assurance: reasonable assurance engagements; and limited assurance engagements. The level of assurance dictates the relative degree of confidence required by the Verifier.
How can GHG verification support the net zero journey?
Identifying a relevant and accurate GHG Inventory is the first and most critical step in an organisation’s net zero journey.
Having your GHG inventory verified ensures all emission data reported is correct which will allow for effective emission mitigation as the key emission hotspots will be identified from all potential emission sources within the GHG Inventory. This sets the tone for your trajectory of decarbonisation as you can identify methods of front-loaded emission reduction (the immediate elimination and reduction of emissions). In short, verification comes with the following key benefits:
Assurance
Verification process involves an assessment of the risks of material discrepancies in reported data. Discrepancies relate to differences between reported data and data generated from the proper application of the relevant standards and methodologies. Identifying and resolving discrepancies will ensure a company’s GHG inventory and associated statements are faithful, true, and fair account of a company’s GHG emissions.
Credibility
In accordance with the GHG Protocol, there are several GHG accounting and reporting principles that need to be adhered to when compiling a GHG inventory. Adherence to these principles and the presence of a transparent, well-documented system (audit trail) is the basis of a successful verification and credible GHG inventory.
Documented validation
Clients will receive a Verification Statement; a document which summarises the verification process and concludes on the validity of the GHG assertion. This can be shared further for assurance purposes.
What does the verification process involve?
The Verification depends on the nature of the information reviewed, the objective of the verification and the level of assurance agreed. As an example, it can include:
1. Evidence Gathering Plan: this demonstrates the client’s audit trail and allows the verifier to conduct an initial examination of all data, information and evidence provided by the client. The Verifier will identify potential non-conformities or request to provide further supporting evidence or clarification.
2. A Site Audit: the Verifier ensured that all requests for information are addressed.
3. Verification Statement: an analytical review of the further evidence or data provided during the Site Audit, followed by a production of Verification Statement Report concluding on the findings.
GHG verification for ISO 14064/65
The ISO 14060 standards provides clarity and consistency for quantifying, monitoring, reporting and validating or verifying GHG emissions and removals to support sustainable development through a low-carbon economy and to benefit organisations, project proponents and interested parties worldwide:
ISO 14064-1
Details principles and requirements for designing, developing, managing and reporting organization-level GHG inventories. It includes:
- requirements for determining GHG emission and removal boundaries
- quantifying an organization’s GHG emissions and removals
- identifying specific company actions or activities aimed at improving GHG management.
ISO 14064-2
Details principles of quantifying and reporting of project emissions. It provides the basis for GHG projects to be verified and validated. It describes the process for verification or validation, including verification or validation planning, assessment procedures, and the evaluation of organizational, project and product GHG statements.
ISO 14065
Defines requirements for bodies that validate and verify GHG statements. It can be used as a basis for accreditation and other forms of recognition in relation to the impartiality, competence, and consistency of validation and verification bodies.
requirements and guidance on inventory quality management, reporting, internal auditing and the organization’s responsibilities in verification activities
Project snapshot: GHG consultancy for Cala
Cala Management Ltd commissioned Sweco UK Ltd to provide independent verification of our annual Scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions, and other sustainability data, to meet the requirements of our Sustainability Linked Loan (SLL) facility.
The SLL agreement contains a number of sustainability Key Performance Indicators that Cala’s sustainability performance is measured against each year (leading to potential benefits or penalties regarding the SLL interest rates).
Sweco provided an excellent service throughout the verification process. Communication lines were clear, with project roles defined and a single point of contact throughout. A project plan was produced quickly and all deliverable dates were met as scheduled. The verification process was robust, but fair, with full transparency throughout the process. The final project deliverables were on time and produced to a high quality.
Based on the strength of Sweco’s work, we have commissioned them to provide this service annually for the remainder of the loan period. We very much look forward to working with them In the future – I have no hesitation in recommending Sweco UK Ltd for similar projects.
Kathryn Dapré Head of Sustainability at Cala Management
GHG verification for improved air quality
Developing a GHG emissions inventory for your business activities presents an ideal opportunity to address the associated air pollutant emissions that can adversely impact air quality, relating to both human health and ecosystems.
Such emissions might include oxides of nitrogen (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), sulphur dioxide (SO2), particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ammonia (NH3), and more.
In many cases, these pollutants will be emitted via the same activities as those for GHGs, including but not limited emissions from vehicles, onsite heating/power plant, back-up power generation, industrial facilities, intensive farming processes, and construction activities.
The streamlining of GHG and air pollutant inventories allows the relevant emissions reduction strategies / action plans / performance targets etc. to include common measures targeted at both GHG and air pollutants, ensuring a path towards net zero can align with a net air quality improvement.
Sweco UK benefits from a team of air quality specialists with expertise in developing air pollutant emissions inventories for a range of projects across an array of sectors. If you are seeking to take a pro-active step in reducing your pollutant emissions to air in tandem with paving your way to net zero, please get in touch with our Air Quality team.