Carbon Accounting and Reporting

Course Outline

Course Overview

This course is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of carbon accounting principles, methodologies, and reporting frameworks. Participants will explore the tools and strategies required for accurately measuring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions, as well as developing effective carbon management and reduction strategies.

This course will be delivered through a combination of lectures, practical exercises, case studies, continuous assessment through quizzes, presentations and assignments, and guest speakers to ensure participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in carbon accounting and reporting. Participants will be prepared to contribute to the accurate measurement, reporting, and management of greenhouse gas emissions in various professional contexts.

 

Module 1: Introduction to Carbon Accounting

• Definition and significance of carbon accounting
• Overview of greenhouse gases and their impact on climate change
• Role of carbon accounting in sustainability and corporate responsibility

Module 2: Greenhouse Gas Inventory

• Identifying and quantifying greenhouse gas emissions
• Sources and scopes of emissions (Scope 1, 2, and 3)
• Emission factors and conversion factors

Module 3: Carbon Accounting Standards and Frameworks

• Global and national carbon reporting standards (e.g., GHG Protocol, ISO 14064)
• Sector-specific reporting guidelines (e.g., CDP, GRI)
• Alignment with international agreements (e.g., Paris Agreement)

Module 4: Scope 1 Emissions

• Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources
• Measurement methodologies for Scope 1 emissions
• Strategies for reducing and mitigating Scope 1 emissions

Module 5: Scope 2 Emissions

• Indirect emissions from purchased energy
• Calculation methods for Scope 2 emissions
• Strategies for transitioning to low-carbon energy sources

Module 6: Scope 3 Emissions

• Indirect emissions from the value chain
• Categories of Scope 3 emissions (e.g., supply chain, transportation)
• Approaches to measuring and reporting Scope 3 emissions

Module 7: Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Strategies

• Principles of carbon offsetting
• Carbon reduction strategies and initiatives
• Case studies on successful carbon reduction projects

Module 8: Carbon Accounting Software and Tools

• Overview of carbon accounting software
• Data collection and management tools
• Integration with other sustainability reporting systems

Module 9: Carbon Reporting and Disclosure

• Developing a carbon report
• Communicating carbon performance to stakeholders
• Legal and regulatory requirements for carbon reporting

Module 10: Verification and Assurance

• Importance of independent verification
• Verification processes and standards
• Ethical considerations in carbon accounting verification