The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) will combine their leading GHG standards and co-develop new standards for GHG emissions accounting and reporting. In addition, the organisations will work on a joint product carbon footprint standard, reflecting the increase in companies seeking to access more granular data from across their value chain to guide decarbonisation decisions.

The harmonised portfolio will represent a major step towards a more common global language for emissions accounting – simplifying processes for companies, increasing consistency for policymakers, and reducing measurement and reporting burdens for all users.

Both ISO and GHG Protocol standards have been widely adopted by organisations around the world. The ISO 1406X family of standards is used by governments in legislation and regulation and forms the foundation for GHG reporting and verification frameworks in many industries. GHG Protocol standards are relied upon by leading sustainability and disclosure initiatives.

The fragmentation of standards and policies is one of the barriers to effective climate action. According to a joint statement by the parties, the new partnership, which includes a common approach and portfolio of dual-logo standards covering corporate, product, and project accounting, addresses that challenge by aligning existing standards and providing a shared platform for future co-development.

Sergio Mujica, ISO Secretary-General said: “Both ISO and GHG Protocol have a shared vision to efficiently advance climate action and simplify the task for all stakeholders. This is a new era for the carbon accounting landscape and both organizations are thrilled to be working together.”

Emmanuel Faber, Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), said, “The ISSB welcomes this development, which will augment the globally accepted baseline for greenhouse gas accounting. Consistent, comparable carbon data is essential for investors globally, enabling informed capital allocation decisions.”