A Standardisation of the Calculation of CO2(e) Emissions Along Supply Chains: Challenges and Requirements Beyond EN 16258

Abstract

European countries are expected to reduce their total annual Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by at least 20 % by 2020 and by 60–80 % by 2050, compared to 1990 emission levels. In order to achieve such reductions of emissions and thus to optimise their efficiency and effectiveness, it is necessary to be able to compare different supply chains. Standards for the calculation of CO2 emissions are a prerequisite for such comparability. In the past, different organisations, corporates and interest groups have developed approaches for a CO2 emission calculation standard. Given the diverse background and motivation of these players the resulting calculation approaches often are not compatible or complementary. With EN 16258 a first step towards a European standardisation has been taken. This research analyses in how far EN 16258 is able to build a basis for a global CO2 emission calculation standard. Furthermore, it reflects how currently on-going work and efforts worldwide can lead to a further convergence of existing emission calculation tools.