Knowledge is key to creating a positive environmental impression for future generations
Abrupt Climate Change
Sudden, large variations in some major component of the climatic system, with rapid, widespread effects. Suddenness/abruptness happens in the order of decades.
Absolute Emissions
Absolute emissions are the emissions quantified for an organisation (or country) and it is the proper measure of GHGs, used by measuring standards and protocols. For instance, if an organisation states that it produced 1 million tonnes of CO2 in 2012, it is reporting its absolute emissions. In the case of CARBON CONTROL™, the Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions of the organisation are considered in the absolute emissions calculations. (The optional Scope 3 emissions are not included.) While calculating absolute emissions is relatively straightforward, the calculations involve defining boundaries; quantifying activities which cause GHG emissions; and the determination of the appropriate conversion factors (or emission factors).
Absolute Target (CARBON CONTROL™ annual reduction targets)
A target defined by a reduction in absolute emissions over time, e.g., if an organisation is complying with the CARBON CONTROL™ Standard, the organisation must reduce absolute carbon emissions by an average of 3 percent annually from when they were first awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark of approval.
Adaptation
Adjusting aspects of natural or human systems (e.g., behaviour, policies, technology, etc) in reaction to actual or predicted changes in our planets environment due to climate change.
Adaptive Capacity
A systems ability to adjust to climate change (as well as climate variability and extremes) to moderate potential damages, to use opportunities, or to manage with the consequences.
Additionality
An approved criteria for achieving reductions in GHG emissions, by using project-based activities (e.g., those under CDM, or offset projects for carbon trading, etc), that exceeds those reductions which would have happened without a project under business-as-usual.
Aerosols
Tiny particles or liquid drops in our planets atmosphere that absorb or reflect sunlight depending on their physical composition.
Afforestation
Growing trees and forests on bare land.
Albedo
The quantity of solar radiation that is reflected from an object or surface, usually denoted by a percentage.
Allocation
The mechanism where GHG emissions allowances are initially distributed under a GHG emissions trading system. Emissions allowances may initially be distributed in a variety of ways.
Allowance
In GHG markets, an allowance is authorisation to emit a specific quantity of GHG emissions each year (e.g., allowance is usually 1 tonne of CO2 equivalent). The total amount of allowances allocated to all organisations (be it government or corporation for example) in a GHG emissions trading system is determined by the magnitude of the overall limit on GHG emissions.
Alternative Energy
This includes energy that is derived from non-traditional sources (e.g., CNG, solar, hydro-electric power, wind).
Annex I Countries/Parties
Countries/parties listed in Annex I (as amended in 1998) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, along with all the developed countries in the Organisation of Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and transition economies. Annex 1 members commit to the goal of returning individually or jointly to their 1990 levels of GHG emissions.
Anthropogenic Emissions
GHGs emitted by human activities (e.g., burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and land-use alterations that result in increases in GHG emissions.
Assessment Process/ Form (CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form).
Based on internationally accepted standards, the CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form sets out energy management requirements for improved energy efficiency, reduced energy usage and lower carbon emissions. The independent auditor assesses the organisations energy management system using the CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form. The auditor will provide guidance to the organisation on meeting the CARBON CONTROL™ energy management system requirements. Where an organisations energy management system has already been independently approved, such as for ISO 50001, the requirements set out in the CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form may be accepted as having been met. This can avoid duplicating work already undertaken
Atmosphere
Layer of gases that surrounds our planet (Approximately 480 km in thickness - majority gases include nitrogen, oxygen and carbon dioxide).
Atmospheric Lifetime
The average time that a molecule stays in the atmosphere before it is withdrawn through a chemical reaction or deposition. It is also described as the time that it takes after the human-induced emission of a gas (for the concentrations of that gas) in our planets atmosphere to return to its natural levels. GHG lifetimes may range from a few years to thousands of years.
Auctioning
The mechanism for the distribution of GHG allowances in an emissions trading system which involves the allowances being sold to the highest bidder.
Audit/Auditing Process
The CARBON CONTROL™ approved independent auditor will audit the organisations emissions for the previous twelve months using the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool. For organisations new to CARBON CONTROL™ this first audit is to establish a base year. For organisatons that are entering their second or subsequent years the approved independent auditor will determine, using the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool , if they have achieved a 3% annual reduction in their carbon emissions in line with the CARBON CONTROL™ emissions reduction criteria.
Auditor
A nationally and/or internationally accredited independent certified body/party approved by CARBON CONTROL™ which generally offers a portfolio of international management system certifications and other management standards (e.g., ISO standards) and inspection services to organisations locally and or globally.
Banking
When unused allowances (or offset credits) are carried over from one compliance period to the next.
Base Year/Base Year Option
The Base Year or Base Year Option refers to the historical carbon emissions for a specific year or the average annual emissions over a specific number of years. It is used as a baseline for evaluating ongoing emissions performances. The CARBON CONTROL™ Base Year Option is the emissions for the year prior to applying for the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark of approval or the average annual emissions for the two or three successive years prior to applying.
Baseline
A hypothetical or real scenario for what the GHG emissions, removals or storage would have been without the GHG project-based activities.
Benchmarking
An allowance allocation mechanism whereby allowances are then distributed by establishing a level of allowed GHG emissions per unit of input or output.
Biofuels
Fuels produced from plant matter (e.g., wood, ethanol, etc).
Biogeochemical Cycle
Movements through our planet system of important chemical constituents which are vital for life, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and phosphorus.
Biomass
Matter that is biological in its origination, it can also be organic matter (both living and dead) from above and below ground (e.g., trees, crops, grasses, tree litter, roots, animals and animal waste).
Biosphere
The part of our planets system comprising of all ecosystems and living organisms, in our planets atmosphere (land is referred to as the terrestrial biosphere and the oceans are referred to as the marine biosphere), including derived dead organic materials (e.g., litter, soil organic materials and oceanic detritus).
Black Carbon (BC) Aerosol
This is a type of aerosol that is the most strongly light-absorbing component of particulate matter (PM), and it is formed by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, and biomass. It is emitted directly into our planets atmosphere in the form of fine particles (PM2.5).
Boundaries (or part of organisation)
Physical limits, site limits or organisational limits (e.g., a process; a group of processes; processes relating to specific products/brands; a site; an entire organisation; multiple sites under the control of an organisation). Organisations are eligible to apply for CARBON CONTROL™ certification for all or part of their operations based on the corporate structure or physical location and these sections may be individually certified.
Borehole
A borehole is a hole which is drilled into the Earth or ice for exploration purposes or for the gathering of geophysical data. Climate scientists usually extract samples of ice cores (which is a kind of borehole), to make calculated predictions on the atmospheric composition of earlier years.
When unused allowances (or offset credits) are carried over from one compliance period to the next.
Base Year/Base Year Option
The Base Year or Base Year Option refers to the historical carbon emissions for a specific year or the average annual emissions over a specific number of years. It is used as a baseline for evaluating ongoing emissions performances. The CARBON CONTROL™ Base Year Option is the emissions for the year prior to applying for the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark of approval or the average annual emissions for the two or three successive years prior to applying.
Baseline
A hypothetical or real scenario for what the GHG emissions, removals or storage would have been without the GHG project-based activities.
Benchmarking
An allowance allocation mechanism whereby allowances are then distributed by establishing a level of allowed GHG emissions per unit of input or output.
Biofuels
Fuels produced from plant matter (e.g., wood, ethanol, etc).
Biogeochemical Cycle
Movements through our planet system of important chemical constituents which are vital for life, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and phosphorus.
Biomass
Matter that is biological in its origination, it can also be organic matter (both living and dead) from above and below ground (e.g., trees, crops, grasses, tree litter, roots, animals and animal waste).
Biosphere
The part of our planets system comprising of all ecosystems and living organisms, in our planets atmosphere (land is referred to as the terrestrial biosphere and the oceans are referred to as the marine biosphere), including derived dead organic materials (e.g., litter, soil organic materials and oceanic detritus).
Black Carbon (BC) Aerosol
This is a type of aerosol that is the most strongly light-absorbing component of particulate matter (PM), and it is formed by the incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, and biomass. It is emitted directly into our planets atmosphere in the form of fine particles (PM2.5).
Boundaries (or part of organisation)
Physical limits, site limits or organisational limits (e.g., a process; a group of processes; processes relating to specific products/brands; a site; an entire organisation; multiple sites under the control of an organisation). Organisations are eligible to apply for CARBON CONTROL™ certification for all or part of their operations based on the corporate structure or physical location and these sections may be individually certified.
Borehole
A borehole is a hole which is drilled into the Earth or ice for exploration purposes or for the gathering of geophysical data. Climate scientists usually extract samples of ice cores (which is a kind of borehole), to make calculated predictions on the atmospheric composition of earlier years.
Cap
A mandated restraint in a scheduled period that places an upper limit on the total anthropogenic GHG emissions that are allowed for release into the atmosphere. It may be measured as gross GHG emissions or as net GHG emissions (GHG emissions excluding gases which are sequestered).
Cap and trade system
A system for the purpose of limiting and reducing GHG emissions. Cap and trade regulation designs a single market method as opposed to a command and control method that prescribes reductions on a source-by-source basis. Cap and trade regulation is a system for setting a total limit on GHG emissions and allows organisations to comply by taking on GHG emission reduction project activities at their covered facilities and/or by buying GHG emission allowances (or credits) from other organisations that have developed emission reductions in excess of their compliance obligations.
CARB
California Air Resources Board
Carbon (C)
Carbon is an element listed in the periodic table. In terms of climate change, the word carbon not only refers to CO2 but it also refers to the inclusion of other GHGs, such as CH4 and N2O. Nowadays, scientists usually put all 6 GHGs together under the same heading ÅcarbonÅ by determining their carbon dioxide equivalent. These 6 GHGs include Carbon dioxide (CO2) - Methane (CH4) - Nitrous oxide (N2O) - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) - Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) - Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). So when scientists discuss about carbon footprint, they usually mean CO2 combined with all the other major GHGs, not only carbon.
Carbon Cycle
All carbon reservoirs and carbon fluxes. The carbon cycle is generally described as 4 main reservoirs of carbon interconnected by pathways of exchange. These reservoirs include the atmosphere, terrestrial biosphere (generally includes freshwater systems), oceans, and sediments (includes fossil fuels). The yearly movements of carbon (carbon exchanges between reservoirs) occur because of a variety of chemical, physical, geological, and biological mechanisms. Oceans contain the largest pools of carbon close to the EarthÅs surface, but most of that pool is not involved with rapid exchange with our atmosphere.
Carbon Dioxide (or CO2)
CO2 is a colourless chemical compound and it comes in the form of an odourless gas. CO2 is formed during breathing process, combustion process, and the decay of organic matter. CO2 is the reference gas against which other GHGs are quantified so it has a Global Warming Potential of 1.
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (or CO2e)
CO2e is a unit for comparing the radiative forcing of a GHG to carbon dioxide. The CO2e is calculated using the mass of a given GHG multiplied by its global warming potential (GWP). This universal unit of measurement represents the GWP of each of the 6 GHGs, expressed in terms of the GWP of 1 unit of CO2. The unit is used to evaluate releasing (or avoiding releasing) different GHGs against a common basis. Expressing all GHGs in terms of tonnes of CO2e enables the different gases to be aggregated (grouped together). CO2e is usually expressed as million metric tonnes of CO2e (MMTCO2e). The CO2e for a gas is derived by multiplying the tonnes of the gas by the associated GWP. MMTCO2e = (million metric tons of a gas) * (GWP of the gas).
Carbon Dioxide Fertilization
An enhancement in the growth of plant life due to increases in atmospheric Carbon Dioxide concentration. Depending on their process for photosynthesis, certain kinds of plant life are more sensitive to variations in atmospheric Carbon Dioxide concentration.
Carbon Footprint
This refers to the total quantity of GHGs emitted by human activities (e.g., burning fossil fuels to drive vehicles or heat houses, etc) generally calculated over a year. Carbon footprint is generally measured in equivalent tonnes of CO2 (which is the major GHG).
Carbon Intensity
The relative quantity of carbon emitted per unit of energy or fuels consumed (it is generally measured in grams per gigajoule). Low Carbon Fuel Standards usually set limits of carbon intensity on fuels.
Carbon Neutral
To be considered carbon neutral an entity or material must maintain a balance between emitting and using carbon. For instance, an organisation emits specific amounts of CO2 when it is burning fossil fuels (for heat, energy, etc), however, this organisation can balance out those CO2 emissions by planting specific numbers of trees as the vegetation will absorb CO2 from our atmosphere (certain types of trees and forests are certified for this balancing purpose, and organisations can donate money to charities which can plant certified trees). Certain non-traditional fuels like biofuels can also be considered carbon neutral (e.g., straw logs) because during their lifetime of growth they have absorbed as much CO2 as they will emit when they are burned (for heat or energy).
Carbon Sink
The mechanisms for the removal of more CO2 from our atmosphere than they emit, in connection with the carbon cycle. For instance, forests and oceans are prime examples of carbon sinks.
Carbon Sequestration
The mechanism for increasing the amount of carbon stored in a reservoir other than in our planetÅs atmosphere. This mechanism can be biological methods that involve directly removing CO2 from our planetÅs atmosphere by land-use change, afforestation, reforestation, and other activities that enhance soil carbon in agriculture. This removal is regarded as temporary since the CO2 returns to our planetÅs atmosphere when plants die or are burned. Physical methods involve separating and disposing of CO2 from flue gases or from processing fossil fuels for the production of hydrogen - and CO2-rich fractions and long-term storage in underground in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, coal seams, and saline aquifers.
Carbon Capture and Storage (or Sequestration)
A range of technologies used to cause significant reductions in CO2 emissions from fossil fuel burning power plants, industrial processes, and other stationary sources of CO2. The mechanism involves a total of 3 steps whereby CO2 is captured from power plants (or industrial sources); transport of the captured and compressed CO2 (usually in pipelines); and underground injection and geologic sequestration (or permanent storage), of that CO2 in rock formations that contain very small openings (or pores) that trap and hold the CO2.
Carbon Tax
An extra fee added onto the price of a fossil fuel purchase due to its carbon content. The carbon tax works by discouraging the purchasing of fossil fuels for the goal of reducing CO2 emissions overall, through encouraging the use of alternatives such as renewable energy where no carbon taxation is applied.
Categories
Carbon emissions measurement categories specified by CARBON CONTROL™.
CDP
Carbon Disclosure Project
Certify/ CARBON CONTROL™ Certification process
If the audit and assessment have been passed and the organisation has committed to the CARBON CONTROL™ annual reduction targets then the organisation is entitled to apply to be awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ mark of approval. This requires the receipt of the audit and assessment report from the approved auditor, the signing of the CARBON CONTROL™ license agreement and payment of the annual license fee. The organisation is then entitled to display the mark on all of the marketing materials and products related to the section of the organisation which has been certified.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
CFCs are synthetic gas substances made up of chlorine, fluorine and carbon. They cause depletion of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, and they are also GHGs.
CHP
Combined Heat and Power.
CH4
Methane
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
CDM is one of the three market processes set up by the Kyoto Protocol to allow flexibility for complying with the market system. The purpose of CDM is to encourage sustainable development in developing countries and assist Annex I members with meeting their GHG emission reduction commitments. CDM allows industrialized countries to invest in GHG emission reduction projects in developing countries and to swap credits for the achieved emission reductions.
Climate
The climate is the statistical average of weather conditions for zones/regions over a period of time.
Climate change
Climate change can be described as the alarming change in the measures of climate (e.g., wind, temperature, or rainfall), which lasts for long-term trends - decades or more.
Climate Feedback
A mechanism that increases or reduces direct warming or cooling effects.
Climate Lag
Climate lag is the delay which arises in climate change due to a certain factor which varies only at a very slow pace. For instance, the effects due to the release of more CO2 into our planetÅs atmosphere, which occur gradually over time since the oceans take long periods of time to get warmer in reaction to a variation in radiation.
Climate Model
Climate model is a quantitative approach for the representation of the interactions between our planetÅs atmosphere, oceans, land surface, and ice. Climate models can vary from relatively basic models to quite detailed complex models.
Climate Sensitivity
In IPCC published reports, the equilibrium climate sensitivity means the equilibrium variation in global mean surface temperature that occurs after a doubling of the atmospheric (equivalent) carbon dioxide concentration. In most common cases, the equilibrium climate sensitivity means the equilibrium variation in surface air temperature that occurs after a unit variation in radiative forcing (degrees Celsius, per watts per square meter, ºC/Wm-2).
Climate System (or Earth system)
This refers to the natural reactions between gases in our atmosphere, our planetÅs water, ice, land, living things, and solar energy. Together, they determine our planet's climate. The climate system involves the 5 physical components (atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere) that are responsible for our planetÅs climate and its changes.
Coal Mine Methane
This methane is a subset of coalbed methane which is emitted from coal seams during a mechanism of coal mining.
Coalbed Methane
This methane is found in coal seams. It is generally known as virgin coalbed methane, or coal seam gas.
Concentration
Quantity of a chemical in a specific volume or weight of air, liquid, or other medium.
Consumer
A consumer is a person or group of people, such as a household. In the case of CARBON CONTROL™ consumers are the final users of products or services which display the CARBON CONTROL™ mark.
COP
Conference of the Parties
CO2
Carbon dioxide
CO2e
Carbon dioxide equivalent
Credits (also known as Carbon Credits)
These credits may be distributed by entities (government, corporations, etc) for reductions achieved using GHG offset projects or through environmental performance achieved beyond a regulatory standard.
Criteria (CARBON CONTROL™ criteria)
An organisation must meet three criteria to be awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ mark:
1. The organisation must have demonstrated a prior commitment to carbon emissions reduction.
2. The organisation must commit to a reduction of its annual CO2 emissions by 3% or more in at least two of four carbon emissions measurement categories specified by CARBON CONTROL™. The organisation must reduce its emissions by 3% or more on the previous year or by a yearly average of 3% since being awarded the mark. One of the four categories is the absolute emissions of the organisation while the other three are relative emissions measurements (intensity ratios). The organisationÅs emissions will be verified by an independent auditor approved by CARBON CONTROL™ using the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool.
3. The organisation must have an energy management systems in place and approved by the approved auditor in accordance with the CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form. This form sets out the CARBON CONTROL™ requirements for improved energy efficiency, reduced energy usage and assesses the energy management structures the organisation has in place.
Cryosphere
The cryosphere is one of the interrelated components of our planet's system. It is frozen water in the form of snow, permanently frozen ground (permafrost), floating ice, and glaciers. Fluctuations in the volume of the cryosphere cause variations in oceanic sea level, that directly impact our planetÅs atmosphere and biosphere.
A mandated restraint in a scheduled period that places an upper limit on the total anthropogenic GHG emissions that are allowed for release into the atmosphere. It may be measured as gross GHG emissions or as net GHG emissions (GHG emissions excluding gases which are sequestered).
Cap and trade system
A system for the purpose of limiting and reducing GHG emissions. Cap and trade regulation designs a single market method as opposed to a command and control method that prescribes reductions on a source-by-source basis. Cap and trade regulation is a system for setting a total limit on GHG emissions and allows organisations to comply by taking on GHG emission reduction project activities at their covered facilities and/or by buying GHG emission allowances (or credits) from other organisations that have developed emission reductions in excess of their compliance obligations.
CARB
California Air Resources Board
Carbon (C)
Carbon is an element listed in the periodic table. In terms of climate change, the word carbon not only refers to CO2 but it also refers to the inclusion of other GHGs, such as CH4 and N2O. Nowadays, scientists usually put all 6 GHGs together under the same heading ÅcarbonÅ by determining their carbon dioxide equivalent. These 6 GHGs include Carbon dioxide (CO2) - Methane (CH4) - Nitrous oxide (N2O) - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) - Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) - Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). So when scientists discuss about carbon footprint, they usually mean CO2 combined with all the other major GHGs, not only carbon.
Carbon Cycle
All carbon reservoirs and carbon fluxes. The carbon cycle is generally described as 4 main reservoirs of carbon interconnected by pathways of exchange. These reservoirs include the atmosphere, terrestrial biosphere (generally includes freshwater systems), oceans, and sediments (includes fossil fuels). The yearly movements of carbon (carbon exchanges between reservoirs) occur because of a variety of chemical, physical, geological, and biological mechanisms. Oceans contain the largest pools of carbon close to the EarthÅs surface, but most of that pool is not involved with rapid exchange with our atmosphere.
Carbon Dioxide (or CO2)
CO2 is a colourless chemical compound and it comes in the form of an odourless gas. CO2 is formed during breathing process, combustion process, and the decay of organic matter. CO2 is the reference gas against which other GHGs are quantified so it has a Global Warming Potential of 1.
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (or CO2e)
CO2e is a unit for comparing the radiative forcing of a GHG to carbon dioxide. The CO2e is calculated using the mass of a given GHG multiplied by its global warming potential (GWP). This universal unit of measurement represents the GWP of each of the 6 GHGs, expressed in terms of the GWP of 1 unit of CO2. The unit is used to evaluate releasing (or avoiding releasing) different GHGs against a common basis. Expressing all GHGs in terms of tonnes of CO2e enables the different gases to be aggregated (grouped together). CO2e is usually expressed as million metric tonnes of CO2e (MMTCO2e). The CO2e for a gas is derived by multiplying the tonnes of the gas by the associated GWP. MMTCO2e = (million metric tons of a gas) * (GWP of the gas).
Carbon Dioxide Fertilization
An enhancement in the growth of plant life due to increases in atmospheric Carbon Dioxide concentration. Depending on their process for photosynthesis, certain kinds of plant life are more sensitive to variations in atmospheric Carbon Dioxide concentration.
Carbon Footprint
This refers to the total quantity of GHGs emitted by human activities (e.g., burning fossil fuels to drive vehicles or heat houses, etc) generally calculated over a year. Carbon footprint is generally measured in equivalent tonnes of CO2 (which is the major GHG).
Carbon Intensity
The relative quantity of carbon emitted per unit of energy or fuels consumed (it is generally measured in grams per gigajoule). Low Carbon Fuel Standards usually set limits of carbon intensity on fuels.
Carbon Neutral
To be considered carbon neutral an entity or material must maintain a balance between emitting and using carbon. For instance, an organisation emits specific amounts of CO2 when it is burning fossil fuels (for heat, energy, etc), however, this organisation can balance out those CO2 emissions by planting specific numbers of trees as the vegetation will absorb CO2 from our atmosphere (certain types of trees and forests are certified for this balancing purpose, and organisations can donate money to charities which can plant certified trees). Certain non-traditional fuels like biofuels can also be considered carbon neutral (e.g., straw logs) because during their lifetime of growth they have absorbed as much CO2 as they will emit when they are burned (for heat or energy).
Carbon Sink
The mechanisms for the removal of more CO2 from our atmosphere than they emit, in connection with the carbon cycle. For instance, forests and oceans are prime examples of carbon sinks.
Carbon Sequestration
The mechanism for increasing the amount of carbon stored in a reservoir other than in our planetÅs atmosphere. This mechanism can be biological methods that involve directly removing CO2 from our planetÅs atmosphere by land-use change, afforestation, reforestation, and other activities that enhance soil carbon in agriculture. This removal is regarded as temporary since the CO2 returns to our planetÅs atmosphere when plants die or are burned. Physical methods involve separating and disposing of CO2 from flue gases or from processing fossil fuels for the production of hydrogen - and CO2-rich fractions and long-term storage in underground in depleted oil and gas reservoirs, coal seams, and saline aquifers.
Carbon Capture and Storage (or Sequestration)
A range of technologies used to cause significant reductions in CO2 emissions from fossil fuel burning power plants, industrial processes, and other stationary sources of CO2. The mechanism involves a total of 3 steps whereby CO2 is captured from power plants (or industrial sources); transport of the captured and compressed CO2 (usually in pipelines); and underground injection and geologic sequestration (or permanent storage), of that CO2 in rock formations that contain very small openings (or pores) that trap and hold the CO2.
Carbon Tax
An extra fee added onto the price of a fossil fuel purchase due to its carbon content. The carbon tax works by discouraging the purchasing of fossil fuels for the goal of reducing CO2 emissions overall, through encouraging the use of alternatives such as renewable energy where no carbon taxation is applied.
Categories
Carbon emissions measurement categories specified by CARBON CONTROL™.
CDP
Carbon Disclosure Project
Certify/ CARBON CONTROL™ Certification process
If the audit and assessment have been passed and the organisation has committed to the CARBON CONTROL™ annual reduction targets then the organisation is entitled to apply to be awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ mark of approval. This requires the receipt of the audit and assessment report from the approved auditor, the signing of the CARBON CONTROL™ license agreement and payment of the annual license fee. The organisation is then entitled to display the mark on all of the marketing materials and products related to the section of the organisation which has been certified.
Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
CFCs are synthetic gas substances made up of chlorine, fluorine and carbon. They cause depletion of the ozone layer in the stratosphere, and they are also GHGs.
CHP
Combined Heat and Power.
CH4
Methane
Clean Development Mechanism (CDM)
CDM is one of the three market processes set up by the Kyoto Protocol to allow flexibility for complying with the market system. The purpose of CDM is to encourage sustainable development in developing countries and assist Annex I members with meeting their GHG emission reduction commitments. CDM allows industrialized countries to invest in GHG emission reduction projects in developing countries and to swap credits for the achieved emission reductions.
Climate
The climate is the statistical average of weather conditions for zones/regions over a period of time.
Climate change
Climate change can be described as the alarming change in the measures of climate (e.g., wind, temperature, or rainfall), which lasts for long-term trends - decades or more.
Climate Feedback
A mechanism that increases or reduces direct warming or cooling effects.
Climate Lag
Climate lag is the delay which arises in climate change due to a certain factor which varies only at a very slow pace. For instance, the effects due to the release of more CO2 into our planetÅs atmosphere, which occur gradually over time since the oceans take long periods of time to get warmer in reaction to a variation in radiation.
Climate Model
Climate model is a quantitative approach for the representation of the interactions between our planetÅs atmosphere, oceans, land surface, and ice. Climate models can vary from relatively basic models to quite detailed complex models.
Climate Sensitivity
In IPCC published reports, the equilibrium climate sensitivity means the equilibrium variation in global mean surface temperature that occurs after a doubling of the atmospheric (equivalent) carbon dioxide concentration. In most common cases, the equilibrium climate sensitivity means the equilibrium variation in surface air temperature that occurs after a unit variation in radiative forcing (degrees Celsius, per watts per square meter, ºC/Wm-2).
Climate System (or Earth system)
This refers to the natural reactions between gases in our atmosphere, our planetÅs water, ice, land, living things, and solar energy. Together, they determine our planet's climate. The climate system involves the 5 physical components (atmosphere, hydrosphere, cryosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere) that are responsible for our planetÅs climate and its changes.
Coal Mine Methane
This methane is a subset of coalbed methane which is emitted from coal seams during a mechanism of coal mining.
Coalbed Methane
This methane is found in coal seams. It is generally known as virgin coalbed methane, or coal seam gas.
Concentration
Quantity of a chemical in a specific volume or weight of air, liquid, or other medium.
Consumer
A consumer is a person or group of people, such as a household. In the case of CARBON CONTROL™ consumers are the final users of products or services which display the CARBON CONTROL™ mark.
COP
Conference of the Parties
CO2
Carbon dioxide
CO2e
Carbon dioxide equivalent
Credits (also known as Carbon Credits)
These credits may be distributed by entities (government, corporations, etc) for reductions achieved using GHG offset projects or through environmental performance achieved beyond a regulatory standard.
Criteria (CARBON CONTROL™ criteria)
An organisation must meet three criteria to be awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ mark:
1. The organisation must have demonstrated a prior commitment to carbon emissions reduction.
2. The organisation must commit to a reduction of its annual CO2 emissions by 3% or more in at least two of four carbon emissions measurement categories specified by CARBON CONTROL™. The organisation must reduce its emissions by 3% or more on the previous year or by a yearly average of 3% since being awarded the mark. One of the four categories is the absolute emissions of the organisation while the other three are relative emissions measurements (intensity ratios). The organisationÅs emissions will be verified by an independent auditor approved by CARBON CONTROL™ using the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool.
3. The organisation must have an energy management systems in place and approved by the approved auditor in accordance with the CARBON CONTROL™ Energy Management Assessment Form. This form sets out the CARBON CONTROL™ requirements for improved energy efficiency, reduced energy usage and assesses the energy management structures the organisation has in place.
Cryosphere
The cryosphere is one of the interrelated components of our planet's system. It is frozen water in the form of snow, permanently frozen ground (permafrost), floating ice, and glaciers. Fluctuations in the volume of the cryosphere cause variations in oceanic sea level, that directly impact our planetÅs atmosphere and biosphere.
Deforestation
Deforestation is the direct conversion of forested land to non-forested land caused by humans.
DEFRA
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. DEFRA is the UK government department responsible for policy and regulations on environmental, food and rural issues.
Desertification
Desertification is land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to various factors, including climatic variations and human activities. The UNCCD defines land degradation as a reduction or loss, in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas, of the biological or economic productivity and complexity of rain-fed cropland, irrigated cropland, or range, pasture, forest, and woodlands resulting from land uses or from a process or combination of processes, including processes arising from human activities and habitation patterns, such as: (i) soil erosion caused by wind and/or water; (ii) deterioration of the physical, chemical and biological or economic properties of soil; and (iii) long-term loss of natural vegetation. Conversion of forest to non-forest.
Driving Cycle
Vehicle emissions can vary widely, due to differences in vehicle technology and driving behaviour. A driving cycle is a series of data points representing the speed of a vehicle versus time. Driving cycles are produced to assess the performance of vehicles in various ways, as for example fuel consumption and polluting emissions. (The fuel consumption and emission tests are performed on chassis dynamometers, and the tailpipe emissions are collected and measured to indicate the performance of the vehicle.)
Dryland Farming
This is a method whereby soil moisture conservation and seed selection are used to optimize agricultural production under dry conditions.
Deforestation is the direct conversion of forested land to non-forested land caused by humans.
DEFRA
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. DEFRA is the UK government department responsible for policy and regulations on environmental, food and rural issues.
Desertification
Desertification is land degradation in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas due to various factors, including climatic variations and human activities. The UNCCD defines land degradation as a reduction or loss, in arid, semi-arid, and dry sub-humid areas, of the biological or economic productivity and complexity of rain-fed cropland, irrigated cropland, or range, pasture, forest, and woodlands resulting from land uses or from a process or combination of processes, including processes arising from human activities and habitation patterns, such as: (i) soil erosion caused by wind and/or water; (ii) deterioration of the physical, chemical and biological or economic properties of soil; and (iii) long-term loss of natural vegetation. Conversion of forest to non-forest.
Driving Cycle
Vehicle emissions can vary widely, due to differences in vehicle technology and driving behaviour. A driving cycle is a series of data points representing the speed of a vehicle versus time. Driving cycles are produced to assess the performance of vehicles in various ways, as for example fuel consumption and polluting emissions. (The fuel consumption and emission tests are performed on chassis dynamometers, and the tailpipe emissions are collected and measured to indicate the performance of the vehicle.)
Dryland Farming
This is a method whereby soil moisture conservation and seed selection are used to optimize agricultural production under dry conditions.
EBIDTA
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization.
El Niño - Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
El Niño is essentially a warm water oceanic current which periodically flows along the Ecuador coast and the Peru coast, causing disruptions to the local fishing industry. The El Niño is related to a fluctuation in the intertropical surface pressure pattern and oceanic circulation of the oceans of India and the Pacific, known as the Southern Oscillation. This dual atmospheric-oceanic effect is referred to as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. During the event of an El Niño, prevailing trade winds begin to become weaker and the equatorial counter-current begins to become stronger, which results in a warming of surface waters around the area of Indonesia which flow in an east direction to overlie cold waters of the oceanic current of Peru. The El Niño has strong effects on wind, sea surface temperature, and precipitation patterns in the tropical Pacific. The El Niño has climatic effects throughout the area of the Pacific and in a lot of other areas/regions of the world. The opposite to the El Niño is known as La Niña.
Emission(s)
Emissions are releases to the air and discharges to the water and land which result in GHGs entering our planetÅs atmosphere.
Emissions Cap
A mandated limit in a scheduled timeframe which places a ceiling on the total quantity of anthropogenic GHG emissions that may be released into the EarthÅs atmosphere.
Emission Factors or EFs (also known as Conversion Factors)
Emission Factors are the quantity of GHGs emitted, relative to a unit of activity (transport, CHP, etc). Emission Factors are factors that allow GHG emissions to be theoretically estimated from a given unit of available activity data (e.g., tonnes of fuel consumed, tonnes of product produced) and absolute GHG emissions. The equation for the estimation of emissions is: Emissionpollutant = Activity * Emission Factorpollutant . Emissionpollutant is the emissions, in units of pollutant per unit of time. The Activity is the activity rate, in units of weight, volume, distance or duration per unit of time. The Emission Factorpollutant is the emission factor, in units of pollutant per unit of weight, volume, distance or duration (e.g. in the case of vehicles and CO2 GHGs - this may be in grams of CO2 emitted per kilometre travelled, or per fuel consumption, or per speed profiles). The Emission Factors for a given fuel may differ from country to country. Emission Factors also differ by activity (e.g. in the case of vehicles - its type, age, etc)
Emission Offset or Offset Emissions (Carbon Offset)
Emission offsets are defined as voluntary project-based GHG emission reductions or removals which are used to meet voluntary or regulatory emission reduction obligations. Voluntary emission offset programs usually establish specific eligibility criteria, and generally require that offsets be real, quantifiable, verifiable or verified, surplus or additional, permanent and unique. The GHG Protocol states that emission offsets are calculated relative to a baseline that represents a hypothetical scenario for what emissions would have been in the absence of the mitigation project that generates the offsets.
Emission Reductions (ERs) or Emission Reduction Units (ERUs)
The measurable reduction unit of release of GHGs into the EarthÅs atmosphere from a specified activity or over a specified area, and a specified period of time.
Emissions Sources (Greenhouse Gas Source)
Emissions sources are the physical unit or process that releases a GHG into our planetÅs atmosphere.
Emissions Trading
Emissions trading is the mechanism or policy which enables the purchasing and selling of emissions credits or allowances created under an emissions cap. Emissions trading is a market process that allows emitters (parties, countries, organisations) to purchase emissions from or sell emissions to other emitters. Emissions trading is expected to lower the costs of meeting emission targets by enabling those who can achieve reductions (in less costly fashion) to sell excess reductions (e.g. reductions in excess of those required under a regulation) to those who can achieve reductions at greater cost.
Energy Conservation
Reducing energy consumption to reduce GHG emissions caused by such energy-generating processes such as the combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, power plants, etc.
Energy Consumption
This is the quantity of energy applied.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a ratio or other quantitative relationship between an output of performance, service, goods or energy, and an input of energy. For example, conversion efficiency; energy required/energy used; output/input; theoretical energy used to operate/energy used to operate. It is important to mention that both input and output need to be clearly specified in quantity and quality, and be measurable.
Energy Management System (or EnMS)
EnMS is a set of interrelated or interacting elements to establish an energy policy and energy objectives, and processes and procedures to achieve those objectives.
Energy Management Team
Individual(s) responsible for implementing EnMS activities effectively and delivering energy performance improvements.
Energy Objective
In relation to improving the organisationÅs energy performance, the energy objective is a specific achievement/outcome set to meet the organisation's energy policy.
Energy Performance
Energy performance derives from quantifiable results in relation to the organisationÅs energy efficiency, energy consumption and energy use. In the case of EnMS, results may be quantified against an energy policy, objectives, targets and other energy performance requirements of an organisation. The energy performance is a single element of the EnMS performance.
Energy Policy (Energy Policy acceptable to CARBON CONTROL™)
This is the organisationÅs statement for its total intentions and direction in relation to its energy performance, which is formally stated by the top management. Energy policy gives a framework for action and to the setting of energy targets and energy objectives.
Energy Review
An energy review is used to determine the energy performance of an organisation based on specific data and other information, which allows for identifying an opportunity for improvement.
Energy Services
Energy services are activities and their results in relation to the provision and/or energy use.
Energy Target
An energy target is a detailed and measurable requirement of energy performance, that is applicable to the organisation or parts thereof, which is due to the energy objective and which needs to be set and met for the purpose of achieving this objective.
Energy Use
Refers to energy usage such as energy used for lights or heating in an organisation; or even transport; vent systems; processes; cooling systems; production lines, etc.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
ERU(s)
Emissions Reduction Unit(s)
European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS)
The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) was introduced by the European Union (EU) to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other GHGs. The EU ETS commenced operation in January 2005 and is being implemented in distinct phases or Åtrading periodsÅ. The scheme began in January 2005 and the first phase ran from 2005-2007. The second phase is in operation from 2008-2012 to coincide with the first Kyoto commitment period. The third phase will run for eight years, from 2013 to 2020. The EU ETS will be substantially strengthened and extended from 2013, enabling it to achieve the EUÅs climate and energy targets for 2020. The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is designed as a cost-effective way to achieve the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Member States are currently required to draw up National Allocation Plans for each trading period setting out an emissions cap or allowances for all companies covered by the scheme each year. The allocation plans are assessed by the European Commission to ensure that the proposed total quantity of allowances allows the Member State to meet its Kyoto target. National environmental protection agencies implement the EU ETS scheme in their respective countries. Companies that keep their emissions below the level of their allocated allowances can sell their excess allowances at a price determined by supply and demand at that time. Those facing difficulty in remaining within their allowance limit may choose between or combine the following options: They can take measures to reduce their emissions and/or they can buy extra allowances by purchasing credits from verified emission-saving projects in the developing countries or emission reduction projects in specified Kyoto Protocol countries. The limits imposed on available allowances ensure that investing in reducing emissions or selling carbon credits is financially much more attractive than buying credits. The scheme therefore incentivises as well as ensures that emissions are reduced.
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization.
El Niño - Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
El Niño is essentially a warm water oceanic current which periodically flows along the Ecuador coast and the Peru coast, causing disruptions to the local fishing industry. The El Niño is related to a fluctuation in the intertropical surface pressure pattern and oceanic circulation of the oceans of India and the Pacific, known as the Southern Oscillation. This dual atmospheric-oceanic effect is referred to as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation. During the event of an El Niño, prevailing trade winds begin to become weaker and the equatorial counter-current begins to become stronger, which results in a warming of surface waters around the area of Indonesia which flow in an east direction to overlie cold waters of the oceanic current of Peru. The El Niño has strong effects on wind, sea surface temperature, and precipitation patterns in the tropical Pacific. The El Niño has climatic effects throughout the area of the Pacific and in a lot of other areas/regions of the world. The opposite to the El Niño is known as La Niña.
Emission(s)
Emissions are releases to the air and discharges to the water and land which result in GHGs entering our planetÅs atmosphere.
Emissions Cap
A mandated limit in a scheduled timeframe which places a ceiling on the total quantity of anthropogenic GHG emissions that may be released into the EarthÅs atmosphere.
Emission Factors or EFs (also known as Conversion Factors)
Emission Factors are the quantity of GHGs emitted, relative to a unit of activity (transport, CHP, etc). Emission Factors are factors that allow GHG emissions to be theoretically estimated from a given unit of available activity data (e.g., tonnes of fuel consumed, tonnes of product produced) and absolute GHG emissions. The equation for the estimation of emissions is: Emissionpollutant = Activity * Emission Factorpollutant . Emissionpollutant is the emissions, in units of pollutant per unit of time. The Activity is the activity rate, in units of weight, volume, distance or duration per unit of time. The Emission Factorpollutant is the emission factor, in units of pollutant per unit of weight, volume, distance or duration (e.g. in the case of vehicles and CO2 GHGs - this may be in grams of CO2 emitted per kilometre travelled, or per fuel consumption, or per speed profiles). The Emission Factors for a given fuel may differ from country to country. Emission Factors also differ by activity (e.g. in the case of vehicles - its type, age, etc)
Emission Offset or Offset Emissions (Carbon Offset)
Emission offsets are defined as voluntary project-based GHG emission reductions or removals which are used to meet voluntary or regulatory emission reduction obligations. Voluntary emission offset programs usually establish specific eligibility criteria, and generally require that offsets be real, quantifiable, verifiable or verified, surplus or additional, permanent and unique. The GHG Protocol states that emission offsets are calculated relative to a baseline that represents a hypothetical scenario for what emissions would have been in the absence of the mitigation project that generates the offsets.
Emission Reductions (ERs) or Emission Reduction Units (ERUs)
The measurable reduction unit of release of GHGs into the EarthÅs atmosphere from a specified activity or over a specified area, and a specified period of time.
Emissions Sources (Greenhouse Gas Source)
Emissions sources are the physical unit or process that releases a GHG into our planetÅs atmosphere.
Emissions Trading
Emissions trading is the mechanism or policy which enables the purchasing and selling of emissions credits or allowances created under an emissions cap. Emissions trading is a market process that allows emitters (parties, countries, organisations) to purchase emissions from or sell emissions to other emitters. Emissions trading is expected to lower the costs of meeting emission targets by enabling those who can achieve reductions (in less costly fashion) to sell excess reductions (e.g. reductions in excess of those required under a regulation) to those who can achieve reductions at greater cost.
Energy Conservation
Reducing energy consumption to reduce GHG emissions caused by such energy-generating processes such as the combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, power plants, etc.
Energy Consumption
This is the quantity of energy applied.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a ratio or other quantitative relationship between an output of performance, service, goods or energy, and an input of energy. For example, conversion efficiency; energy required/energy used; output/input; theoretical energy used to operate/energy used to operate. It is important to mention that both input and output need to be clearly specified in quantity and quality, and be measurable.
Energy Management System (or EnMS)
EnMS is a set of interrelated or interacting elements to establish an energy policy and energy objectives, and processes and procedures to achieve those objectives.
Energy Management Team
Individual(s) responsible for implementing EnMS activities effectively and delivering energy performance improvements.
Energy Objective
In relation to improving the organisationÅs energy performance, the energy objective is a specific achievement/outcome set to meet the organisation's energy policy.
Energy Performance
Energy performance derives from quantifiable results in relation to the organisationÅs energy efficiency, energy consumption and energy use. In the case of EnMS, results may be quantified against an energy policy, objectives, targets and other energy performance requirements of an organisation. The energy performance is a single element of the EnMS performance.
Energy Policy (Energy Policy acceptable to CARBON CONTROL™)
This is the organisationÅs statement for its total intentions and direction in relation to its energy performance, which is formally stated by the top management. Energy policy gives a framework for action and to the setting of energy targets and energy objectives.
Energy Review
An energy review is used to determine the energy performance of an organisation based on specific data and other information, which allows for identifying an opportunity for improvement.
Energy Services
Energy services are activities and their results in relation to the provision and/or energy use.
Energy Target
An energy target is a detailed and measurable requirement of energy performance, that is applicable to the organisation or parts thereof, which is due to the energy objective and which needs to be set and met for the purpose of achieving this objective.
Energy Use
Refers to energy usage such as energy used for lights or heating in an organisation; or even transport; vent systems; processes; cooling systems; production lines, etc.
EPA
Environmental Protection Agency
ERU(s)
Emissions Reduction Unit(s)
European Union Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS)
The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) was introduced by the European Union (EU) to reduce emissions of carbon dioxide and other GHGs. The EU ETS commenced operation in January 2005 and is being implemented in distinct phases or Åtrading periodsÅ. The scheme began in January 2005 and the first phase ran from 2005-2007. The second phase is in operation from 2008-2012 to coincide with the first Kyoto commitment period. The third phase will run for eight years, from 2013 to 2020. The EU ETS will be substantially strengthened and extended from 2013, enabling it to achieve the EUÅs climate and energy targets for 2020. The EU Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) is designed as a cost-effective way to achieve the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. Member States are currently required to draw up National Allocation Plans for each trading period setting out an emissions cap or allowances for all companies covered by the scheme each year. The allocation plans are assessed by the European Commission to ensure that the proposed total quantity of allowances allows the Member State to meet its Kyoto target. National environmental protection agencies implement the EU ETS scheme in their respective countries. Companies that keep their emissions below the level of their allocated allowances can sell their excess allowances at a price determined by supply and demand at that time. Those facing difficulty in remaining within their allowance limit may choose between or combine the following options: They can take measures to reduce their emissions and/or they can buy extra allowances by purchasing credits from verified emission-saving projects in the developing countries or emission reduction projects in specified Kyoto Protocol countries. The limits imposed on available allowances ensure that investing in reducing emissions or selling carbon credits is financially much more attractive than buying credits. The scheme therefore incentivises as well as ensures that emissions are reduced.
Facility
A facility can be a single installation, set of installations or production processes (stationary or mobile), that may be defined within a single geographical boundary, organisational unit or production process.
FTE
Full-time equivalent
A facility can be a single installation, set of installations or production processes (stationary or mobile), that may be defined within a single geographical boundary, organisational unit or production process.
FTE
Full-time equivalent
Global warming
Global warming is primarily caused by increased levels of CO2 in the atmosphere as a result of humans burning fossil fuels. In order to avoid the catastrophic effects of climate change individuals and companies must control their carbon emissions to reduce the concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In summary, it is the trend of rising Earth's average surface temperature caused predominantly by increased concentrations of GHGs in the atmosphere.
Global Warming Potential (or GWP)
GWP stands for the factor which describes the radiative forcing impact (degree of harm to our planetÅs atmosphere) of one mass-based unit for a given GHG relative to an equivalent unit of CO2 over a given period of time. The IPCC publishes the GWP figures.
Grandfathering
The technique where GHG emission allowances are freely given to entities covered under a GHG emissions trading program based on historic GHG emissions.
Greenhouse Effect
Heat building-up or being trapped in our planetÅs lower atmosphere (troposphere). Some of the heat returning to space from the planet's surface becomes absorbed (absorbed by water vapor, CO2, CH4, etc.) and then becomes reradiated to our planetÅs surface. If GHG atmospheric concentrations continue to increase, then the average temperature of the troposphere will gradually rise.
Greenhouse gas (or GHG)
GHGs are natural and anthropogenic gaseous constituents of our planetÅs atmosphere. They absorb and emit radiation at specific wavelengths within the infrared spectrum of radiation emitted by our planetÅs surface, atmosphere, and clouds. GHGs prevent heat from escaping our planetÅs atmosphere into space. Fossil fuel burning, and deforestation result in significant increases of GHG concentrations in our planetÅs atmosphere. Increases in GHG concentrations may vary the EarthÅs climate. On the 17th of April, 2009, the US EPA's Administrator signed an Endangerment Finding, that stated that the current and projected concentrations of the six key GHGs will have an effect on the planet and be a threat to the public health and welfare of current and future generations. The six key GHGs are Carbon dioxide (CO2) - Methane (CH4) - Nitrous oxide (N2O) - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) - Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) - Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). While GHGs can occur naturally in our planetÅs atmosphere, human activities can cause additional GHG emissions as well. In addition, humans have manufactured certain gaseous compounds that cannot be found in nature which also slow the release of radiant energy into space.
Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol or GHGP)
This is the GHGP Initiative, which is a multi-stakeholder partnership of businesses, NGOs, governments and others convened by the WRI, a U.S. based environmental NGO and the WBCSD, a Geneva based coalition of 170 international companies. GHGP was launched in 1998 with the objective to develop internationally acceptable GHG accounting and reporting standards for business and to promote their broad adoption.
Greenhouse gas report
A document which describes the GHG data of an organisation/project for the purpose of its intended users.
Gross CO2 emissions
The overall GHG emissions (quantified in CO2e) for a given period and specific area/region which excludes GHG sinks in that area/region.
Global warming is primarily caused by increased levels of CO2 in the atmosphere as a result of humans burning fossil fuels. In order to avoid the catastrophic effects of climate change individuals and companies must control their carbon emissions to reduce the concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In summary, it is the trend of rising Earth's average surface temperature caused predominantly by increased concentrations of GHGs in the atmosphere.
Global Warming Potential (or GWP)
GWP stands for the factor which describes the radiative forcing impact (degree of harm to our planetÅs atmosphere) of one mass-based unit for a given GHG relative to an equivalent unit of CO2 over a given period of time. The IPCC publishes the GWP figures.
Grandfathering
The technique where GHG emission allowances are freely given to entities covered under a GHG emissions trading program based on historic GHG emissions.
Greenhouse Effect
Heat building-up or being trapped in our planetÅs lower atmosphere (troposphere). Some of the heat returning to space from the planet's surface becomes absorbed (absorbed by water vapor, CO2, CH4, etc.) and then becomes reradiated to our planetÅs surface. If GHG atmospheric concentrations continue to increase, then the average temperature of the troposphere will gradually rise.
Greenhouse gas (or GHG)
GHGs are natural and anthropogenic gaseous constituents of our planetÅs atmosphere. They absorb and emit radiation at specific wavelengths within the infrared spectrum of radiation emitted by our planetÅs surface, atmosphere, and clouds. GHGs prevent heat from escaping our planetÅs atmosphere into space. Fossil fuel burning, and deforestation result in significant increases of GHG concentrations in our planetÅs atmosphere. Increases in GHG concentrations may vary the EarthÅs climate. On the 17th of April, 2009, the US EPA's Administrator signed an Endangerment Finding, that stated that the current and projected concentrations of the six key GHGs will have an effect on the planet and be a threat to the public health and welfare of current and future generations. The six key GHGs are Carbon dioxide (CO2) - Methane (CH4) - Nitrous oxide (N2O) - Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) - Perfluorocarbons (PFCs) - Sulfur hexafluoride (SF6). While GHGs can occur naturally in our planetÅs atmosphere, human activities can cause additional GHG emissions as well. In addition, humans have manufactured certain gaseous compounds that cannot be found in nature which also slow the release of radiant energy into space.
Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol or GHGP)
This is the GHGP Initiative, which is a multi-stakeholder partnership of businesses, NGOs, governments and others convened by the WRI, a U.S. based environmental NGO and the WBCSD, a Geneva based coalition of 170 international companies. GHGP was launched in 1998 with the objective to develop internationally acceptable GHG accounting and reporting standards for business and to promote their broad adoption.
Greenhouse gas report
A document which describes the GHG data of an organisation/project for the purpose of its intended users.
Gross CO2 emissions
The overall GHG emissions (quantified in CO2e) for a given period and specific area/region which excludes GHG sinks in that area/region.
HVAC System
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) HFCs are one of the six primary GHG emissions. They are synthetic industrial gases, primarily used in refrigeration and other applications as a commercial substitution for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Natural sources of HFCs do not exist. HFCs have an atmospheric lifetime of decades to centuries. HFCs have global warming potential (GWP) thousands of times that of CO2, depending on the gas. HFCs are one of the six GHGs covered under the Kyoto Protocol.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system
Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) HFCs are one of the six primary GHG emissions. They are synthetic industrial gases, primarily used in refrigeration and other applications as a commercial substitution for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Natural sources of HFCs do not exist. HFCs have an atmospheric lifetime of decades to centuries. HFCs have global warming potential (GWP) thousands of times that of CO2, depending on the gas. HFCs are one of the six GHGs covered under the Kyoto Protocol.
ICT
Information and Communication Technology. NOTE: CARBON CONTROL™ follows the OECD definition, which has the following guiding principle: ICT products must primarily be intended to fulfil or enable the function of information processing and communication by electronic means, including transmission and display.
Implementation process
In order to qualify for the CARBON CONTROL™ mark the organisation must implement an energy management system that has been approved by the independent auditor as appropriate to reducing the organisationÅs annual carbon emissions by 3%.
Initiative (CARBON CONTROL™ initiative)
Means the CARBON CONTROL™ standard, mark, campaign and any other attribute or feature under its umbrella of certification.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
The IPCC is the leading international scientific body for the assessment of climate change. It provides a clear scientific view on the current state of climate change and its potential environmental and socio-economic consequences. Thousands of scientists from all over the world contribute to the work of the IPCC on a voluntary basis with the aim of ensuring an objective and complete assessment of current climate change information. Differing viewpoints existing within the scientific community are reflected in the IPCC reports. The assessment reports from the IPCC help to inform the international negotiations on climate change.
Indicators
Indicators are like measuring sticks used to track the environmental protection results achieved by governments, organisations and people.
Intensity-Based Target
Intensity-based targets are denoted by emissions per unit of output (for example, GDP, physical production, etc). An intensity target aims to achieve a particular emissions rate, or level of performance, rather than a specific level of emissions.
Inventory
A GHG inventory is an accounting of the quantity of GHGs emitted to or removed from our planetÅs atmosphere over a specific period of time (for example, an annual basis). It includes informative data on the activities that cause emissions and removals, including a background on the methods used to do the calculations. Policy makers use GHG inventories to track emission trends, develop strategies, policies, and assess progress. Scientists use GHG inventories as inputs to atmospheric and economic models.
IPCC Guidelines
The IPCC Guidelines for National GHG Inventories provide internationally accepted methodologies for estimating national inventories of anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases.
ISO
International Organisation for Standardisation.
ISO 14064-1:2006 Greenhouse gases (or ISO 14064 Part 1)
ISO defines this standard as the specification with guidance at the organisation level for quantification and reporting of GHG emissions and removals. It specifies principles and requirements at the organisation level for quantification and reporting of GHG emissions and removals. It includes requirements for the design, development, management, reporting and verification of an organisation's GHG inventory.
ISO 14064-2:2006 Greenhouse gases (or ISO 14064 Part 2)
ISO defines this standard as the specification with guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of GHG emission reductions or removal enhancements. It specifies principles and requirements and provides guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of activities intended to cause GHG emission reductions or removal enhancements. It includes requirements for planning a GHG project, identifying and selecting GHG sources, sinks and reservoirs relevant to the project and baseline scenario, monitoring, quantifying, documenting and reporting GHG project performance and managing data quality.
ISO 50001:2011
ISO defines this standard as being based on the management system model of continual improvement also used for other well-known standards such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001. This makes it easier for organisations to integrate energy management into their overall efforts to improve quality and environmental management. It provides a framework of requirements for organisations to: develop a policy for more efficient use of energy, fix targets and objectives to meet the policy, use data to better understand and make decisions about energy use, measure the results, review how well the policy works, and continually improve energy management. Using energy efficiently helps organisations save money as well as helping to conserve resources and tackle climate change. ISO 50001 supports organisations in all sectors to use energy more efficiently, through the development of an energy management system (EnMS). Conformance to the standard provides proof that a facility has implemented sustainable energy management systems, completed a baseline of its energy use, and committed to continual improvement in energy performance.
IT
Information Technology
Information and Communication Technology. NOTE: CARBON CONTROL™ follows the OECD definition, which has the following guiding principle: ICT products must primarily be intended to fulfil or enable the function of information processing and communication by electronic means, including transmission and display.
Implementation process
In order to qualify for the CARBON CONTROL™ mark the organisation must implement an energy management system that has been approved by the independent auditor as appropriate to reducing the organisationÅs annual carbon emissions by 3%.
Initiative (CARBON CONTROL™ initiative)
Means the CARBON CONTROL™ standard, mark, campaign and any other attribute or feature under its umbrella of certification.
Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
The IPCC is the leading international scientific body for the assessment of climate change. It provides a clear scientific view on the current state of climate change and its potential environmental and socio-economic consequences. Thousands of scientists from all over the world contribute to the work of the IPCC on a voluntary basis with the aim of ensuring an objective and complete assessment of current climate change information. Differing viewpoints existing within the scientific community are reflected in the IPCC reports. The assessment reports from the IPCC help to inform the international negotiations on climate change.
Indicators
Indicators are like measuring sticks used to track the environmental protection results achieved by governments, organisations and people.
Intensity-Based Target
Intensity-based targets are denoted by emissions per unit of output (for example, GDP, physical production, etc). An intensity target aims to achieve a particular emissions rate, or level of performance, rather than a specific level of emissions.
Inventory
A GHG inventory is an accounting of the quantity of GHGs emitted to or removed from our planetÅs atmosphere over a specific period of time (for example, an annual basis). It includes informative data on the activities that cause emissions and removals, including a background on the methods used to do the calculations. Policy makers use GHG inventories to track emission trends, develop strategies, policies, and assess progress. Scientists use GHG inventories as inputs to atmospheric and economic models.
IPCC Guidelines
The IPCC Guidelines for National GHG Inventories provide internationally accepted methodologies for estimating national inventories of anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases.
ISO
International Organisation for Standardisation.
ISO 14064-1:2006 Greenhouse gases (or ISO 14064 Part 1)
ISO defines this standard as the specification with guidance at the organisation level for quantification and reporting of GHG emissions and removals. It specifies principles and requirements at the organisation level for quantification and reporting of GHG emissions and removals. It includes requirements for the design, development, management, reporting and verification of an organisation's GHG inventory.
ISO 14064-2:2006 Greenhouse gases (or ISO 14064 Part 2)
ISO defines this standard as the specification with guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of GHG emission reductions or removal enhancements. It specifies principles and requirements and provides guidance at the project level for quantification, monitoring and reporting of activities intended to cause GHG emission reductions or removal enhancements. It includes requirements for planning a GHG project, identifying and selecting GHG sources, sinks and reservoirs relevant to the project and baseline scenario, monitoring, quantifying, documenting and reporting GHG project performance and managing data quality.
ISO 50001:2011
ISO defines this standard as being based on the management system model of continual improvement also used for other well-known standards such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001. This makes it easier for organisations to integrate energy management into their overall efforts to improve quality and environmental management. It provides a framework of requirements for organisations to: develop a policy for more efficient use of energy, fix targets and objectives to meet the policy, use data to better understand and make decisions about energy use, measure the results, review how well the policy works, and continually improve energy management. Using energy efficiently helps organisations save money as well as helping to conserve resources and tackle climate change. ISO 50001 supports organisations in all sectors to use energy more efficiently, through the development of an energy management system (EnMS). Conformance to the standard provides proof that a facility has implemented sustainable energy management systems, completed a baseline of its energy use, and committed to continual improvement in energy performance.
IT
Information Technology
Joint Implementation (JI)
JI is a process used under the Kyoto Protocol whereby a developed country may receive ERUs if it can help to fund projects that reduce net GHG emissions in another developed country. (The recipient state is usually a country with an economy in transition.) An Annex I Party (see above) needs to meet specific eligibility requirements to participate in JI.
JI is a process used under the Kyoto Protocol whereby a developed country may receive ERUs if it can help to fund projects that reduce net GHG emissions in another developed country. (The recipient state is usually a country with an economy in transition.) An Annex I Party (see above) needs to meet specific eligibility requirements to participate in JI.
KWh
Kilo-watt hour
Kyoto Mechanisms
These are the 3 mechanisms established under the Kyoto Protocol to increase the flexibility and reduce the costs of reducing GHG emissions. The 3 mechanisms include the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), emissions trading, and joint implementation (JI).
Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol is the first international agreement to set verifiable binding targets for countries for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order to prevent global warming in an effort to combat the serious threat of climate change. These binding targets amount to an average of 5% cent against 1990 levels over the five-year period 2008-2012. The EU, in implementing the Kyoto Protocol, committed to an average reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 8% below 1990 levels. This 8% reduction was allocated proportionately among the member states.
Kilo-watt hour
Kyoto Mechanisms
These are the 3 mechanisms established under the Kyoto Protocol to increase the flexibility and reduce the costs of reducing GHG emissions. The 3 mechanisms include the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), emissions trading, and joint implementation (JI).
Kyoto Protocol
The Kyoto Protocol is the first international agreement to set verifiable binding targets for countries for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in order to prevent global warming in an effort to combat the serious threat of climate change. These binding targets amount to an average of 5% cent against 1990 levels over the five-year period 2008-2012. The EU, in implementing the Kyoto Protocol, committed to an average reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 8% below 1990 levels. This 8% reduction was allocated proportionately among the member states.
Leakage
A leakage occurs when activities which reduce GHG emissions (or increase carbon in plants and soils) in one place and time cause an increase in emissions (or loss of carbon in soils or plants) elsewhere or at later times. For instance, a cement company participating in the EU ETS makes reductions by shutting down one plant and replacing its output with manufacturing from a cement facility in another country which does not have a GHG limit.
Logo
A logo is a graphic mark (e.g., the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark) or emblem commonly used by commercial enterprises, organisations and even individuals to aid and promote instant public recognition. Logos are either purely graphic (symbols/icons) or are composed of the name of the organisation (a logotype or wordmark).
Logo Use Guidelines (CARBON CONTROL™ Logo Use Guidelines)
The manual for organisations on how to properly use the CARBON CONTROL™ mark and how to avoid diluting, tarnishing or confusing the CARBON CONTROL™ brand.
LPG
Liquefied petroleum gas
A leakage occurs when activities which reduce GHG emissions (or increase carbon in plants and soils) in one place and time cause an increase in emissions (or loss of carbon in soils or plants) elsewhere or at later times. For instance, a cement company participating in the EU ETS makes reductions by shutting down one plant and replacing its output with manufacturing from a cement facility in another country which does not have a GHG limit.
Logo
A logo is a graphic mark (e.g., the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark) or emblem commonly used by commercial enterprises, organisations and even individuals to aid and promote instant public recognition. Logos are either purely graphic (symbols/icons) or are composed of the name of the organisation (a logotype or wordmark).
Logo Use Guidelines (CARBON CONTROL™ Logo Use Guidelines)
The manual for organisations on how to properly use the CARBON CONTROL™ mark and how to avoid diluting, tarnishing or confusing the CARBON CONTROL™ brand.
LPG
Liquefied petroleum gas
Mark (CARBON CONTROL™ Mark)
The CARBON CONTROL™ mark, as a trademarked independent consumer label, acts to alleviate the climate change problem. It verifies that the organisations displaying the mark are meeting strict CO2 emissions reduction targets. These organisations are reducing green house gas emissions and working to prevent the most destructive effects of climate change. By purchasing from organisations displaying the CARBON CONTROL™ mark you are contributing towards combating global warming.
MWh
Mega-watt hour.
Methane (CH4)
Methane is a colourless and odourless gas which is most commonly referred to as Natural Gas. It is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. Atmospheric methane is produced in nature, although large quantities of methane emissions are produced from human related sources (e.g., mining) as well. CH4 has a relatively short atmospheric lifetime of approximately 10 years, but its 100-year global warming potential (GWP) is currently estimated to be approximately 21 times that of CO2.
Metric Ton (tonne)
The internationally accepted measurement of the quantity for GHG emissions, equivalent to approximately 2,204.6 pounds or 1.1 short tons.
Milankovitch Cycle The Milankovitch Cycle is a cyclical movement related to our planetÅs orbit around the Sun and subsequently influences climatic patterns. There are 3 types of orbital variations in total: variations in the planetÅs eccentricity, variations in the axial tilt of the planet, and precession of the planetÅs axis. The Milankovitch Theory proposes that the combination of these 3 cycles is known as the Milankovitch Cycles, which cause an effect on the distribution of the planetÅs seasonal sunlight reaching our planetÅs surface and how the sunlight is distributed around the planet.
Mitigation (Climate Change)
The intervention by humans to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of our planetÅs GHGs. For instance, mitigation can be done by more efficiently using fossil fuels for industrial processes or the generation of electricity, changing over from oil to natural gas for use as a heating fuel, or by improving the building insulation, or increasing the number of forests/sinks for the removal of larger quantities of CO2 from our planetÅs atmosphere.
The CARBON CONTROL™ mark, as a trademarked independent consumer label, acts to alleviate the climate change problem. It verifies that the organisations displaying the mark are meeting strict CO2 emissions reduction targets. These organisations are reducing green house gas emissions and working to prevent the most destructive effects of climate change. By purchasing from organisations displaying the CARBON CONTROL™ mark you are contributing towards combating global warming.
MWh
Mega-watt hour.
Methane (CH4)
Methane is a colourless and odourless gas which is most commonly referred to as Natural Gas. It is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. Atmospheric methane is produced in nature, although large quantities of methane emissions are produced from human related sources (e.g., mining) as well. CH4 has a relatively short atmospheric lifetime of approximately 10 years, but its 100-year global warming potential (GWP) is currently estimated to be approximately 21 times that of CO2.
Metric Ton (tonne)
The internationally accepted measurement of the quantity for GHG emissions, equivalent to approximately 2,204.6 pounds or 1.1 short tons.
Milankovitch Cycle The Milankovitch Cycle is a cyclical movement related to our planetÅs orbit around the Sun and subsequently influences climatic patterns. There are 3 types of orbital variations in total: variations in the planetÅs eccentricity, variations in the axial tilt of the planet, and precession of the planetÅs axis. The Milankovitch Theory proposes that the combination of these 3 cycles is known as the Milankovitch Cycles, which cause an effect on the distribution of the planetÅs seasonal sunlight reaching our planetÅs surface and how the sunlight is distributed around the planet.
Mitigation (Climate Change)
The intervention by humans to reduce the sources or enhance the sinks of our planetÅs GHGs. For instance, mitigation can be done by more efficiently using fossil fuels for industrial processes or the generation of electricity, changing over from oil to natural gas for use as a heating fuel, or by improving the building insulation, or increasing the number of forests/sinks for the removal of larger quantities of CO2 from our planetÅs atmosphere.
Net CO2e emissions
This is the difference between sources and sinks of GHG emissions (measured in CO2e) for a given period and specific area/region.
NGOs
Non governmental organisations
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
N2O is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. N2O is produced by natural processes. However high levels of N2O emissions are also produced by human activities like farming and the combustion of fossil fuels. N2O has an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 100 years, and its 100-year global warming potential (GWP) is currently estimated to be 310 times that of CO2.
N2O
Nitrous Oxide
This is the difference between sources and sinks of GHG emissions (measured in CO2e) for a given period and specific area/region.
NGOs
Non governmental organisations
Nitrous Oxide (N2O)
N2O is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. N2O is produced by natural processes. However high levels of N2O emissions are also produced by human activities like farming and the combustion of fossil fuels. N2O has an atmospheric lifetime of approximately 100 years, and its 100-year global warming potential (GWP) is currently estimated to be 310 times that of CO2.
N2O
Nitrous Oxide
OECD
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Organic Growth/Decline.
The increase or decrease of GHG emissions due to variations in production output, product mix, plant closures, and the opening of new plants.
Organisation
An organisation is a business, company, corporation, entity, firm, enterprise, authority or institution, or part or combination thereof, whether incorporated or not, public or private, that has its own functions and administration and that has the authority to control its energy use and consumption. An organisation may be an individual or a group of individuals.
Outsourcing
Outsourcing is the contracting out of activities to other entities/businesses.
Ozone Layer
This is a layer of ozone (between around 15 - 50 km above the Earths surface), which acts to shield our planet from harmful UV radiation from the sun. Naturally occurring events (e.g., volcanoes and solar flares) may cause variations in ozone concentration. However human-induced variations are the most concern (e.g., emitting CFCs).
Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development
Organic Growth/Decline.
The increase or decrease of GHG emissions due to variations in production output, product mix, plant closures, and the opening of new plants.
Organisation
An organisation is a business, company, corporation, entity, firm, enterprise, authority or institution, or part or combination thereof, whether incorporated or not, public or private, that has its own functions and administration and that has the authority to control its energy use and consumption. An organisation may be an individual or a group of individuals.
Outsourcing
Outsourcing is the contracting out of activities to other entities/businesses.
Ozone Layer
This is a layer of ozone (between around 15 - 50 km above the Earths surface), which acts to shield our planet from harmful UV radiation from the sun. Naturally occurring events (e.g., volcanoes and solar flares) may cause variations in ozone concentration. However human-induced variations are the most concern (e.g., emitting CFCs).
Particulate Matter (PM)
PM are tiny fragments of solid or liquid. This includes particles of soot, dust, fumes, mists or aerosols.
Penalties
In the EU ETS system, if a company fails to surrender allowances as required by the end of the deadline of each year to cover its emissions during the preceding year, it is penalised in the form of fines and the possible suspension of its allowance trading permit. The penalties strongly encourage compliance and do not replace the obligation to submit the required allowances.
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
Perfluorocarbons are one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. Perfluorocarbons are synthetic industrial gases produced as a by-product of aluminum smelting and uranium enrichment. Perfluorocarbons are also used in semiconductors manufacturing. Natural sources of PFCs do not exist. The atmospheric lifetimes of perfluorocarbons can be thousands to tens of thousands of years and 100-year GWPs thousands of times that of CO2, depending on the specific perfluorocarbon.
PM
Particulate Matter
Point of Regulation
In a cap and trade program, a point of regulation is the point of program enforcement, or when specific emitters covered under the cap and trade program are forced to surrender sufficient allowances to match their actual GHG emissions within a compliance period.
Procedure
Procedure is a specific approach to perform an activity or a process. Procedures may be documented or not and when a procedure is documented, the term "written procedure" or "documented procedure" is most often used.
Productivity/Efficiency Ratios.
Ratios for the value/achievement of an organisation divided by its GHG impact. Increasing efficiency ratios represent a positive improvement in performance, e.g., resource productivity (sales per tonne of GHG).
PM are tiny fragments of solid or liquid. This includes particles of soot, dust, fumes, mists or aerosols.
Penalties
In the EU ETS system, if a company fails to surrender allowances as required by the end of the deadline of each year to cover its emissions during the preceding year, it is penalised in the form of fines and the possible suspension of its allowance trading permit. The penalties strongly encourage compliance and do not replace the obligation to submit the required allowances.
Perfluorocarbons (PFCs)
Perfluorocarbons are one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. Perfluorocarbons are synthetic industrial gases produced as a by-product of aluminum smelting and uranium enrichment. Perfluorocarbons are also used in semiconductors manufacturing. Natural sources of PFCs do not exist. The atmospheric lifetimes of perfluorocarbons can be thousands to tens of thousands of years and 100-year GWPs thousands of times that of CO2, depending on the specific perfluorocarbon.
PM
Particulate Matter
Point of Regulation
In a cap and trade program, a point of regulation is the point of program enforcement, or when specific emitters covered under the cap and trade program are forced to surrender sufficient allowances to match their actual GHG emissions within a compliance period.
Procedure
Procedure is a specific approach to perform an activity or a process. Procedures may be documented or not and when a procedure is documented, the term "written procedure" or "documented procedure" is most often used.
Productivity/Efficiency Ratios.
Ratios for the value/achievement of an organisation divided by its GHG impact. Increasing efficiency ratios represent a positive improvement in performance, e.g., resource productivity (sales per tonne of GHG).
Radiative Forcing
The radiative forcing is the difference between the incoming radiation energy and the outgoing radiation energy in a given climate system. A positive radiative forcing (more incoming energy) tends to heat up the climate system, while a negative radiative forcing (more outgoing energy) tends to cool down the climate system.
Record
A record is a document stating the results that were achieved or providing evidence of the activities performed. For instance, records may be utilised to document traceability and to provide evidence of verification, preventive action and corrective action.
Reforestation
Reforestation is the planting of forests on lands which have recently had forests but which have been converted to some other use. Article 3.3 of the Kyoto Protocol limits reforestation to planting forests on lands that have not been forested since 1990.
Registries or Registry Systems
Registries are electronic databases that track and record GHG emissions and GHG emission allowance holdings, retirements, cancellations and transfers.
Relative Emissions Ratios (Intensity Ratios)
Whereas absolute emissions quantifies the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases produced, relative emissions (emissions intensity) report the amount of emissions per some unit of economic output. In the case of CARBON CONTROL™ this can be done for a company relative to the companyÅs total turnover/revenue, EBIDTA, FTE or in terms of units of a good produced. For a country, emissions intensity might be calculated as tons of carbon dioxide relative to that countryÅs gross national product.
Relative/Intensity Target (CARBON CONTROL™ annual reduction targets) A target defined by reduction in the ratio of emissions and an organisationÅs business metric over time. Targets are expressed as emissions per unit of economic output (e.g., turnover/revenue, EBIDTA, FTE, or physical production). If an organisation is complying with the CARBON CONTROL™ Standard, the organisation must reduce relative carbon emissions by an average of 3 percent annually from when they were first awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark of approval.
Renewable Energy
This is energy which comes from inexhaustible sources, such as hydro, wind, water, solar, geothermal energy, biofuels, etc.
Reporting
Reporting is the presentation of data to internal management and external users like regulators, shareholders, general public or specific stakeholder groups.
Reservoir
A reservoir is a component of the planetÅs climate system, other than the planetÅs atmosphere, that has the capacity to store, accumulate, or release GHGs. Examples of carbon reservoirs include the oceans, soils, and forests.
The radiative forcing is the difference between the incoming radiation energy and the outgoing radiation energy in a given climate system. A positive radiative forcing (more incoming energy) tends to heat up the climate system, while a negative radiative forcing (more outgoing energy) tends to cool down the climate system.
Record
A record is a document stating the results that were achieved or providing evidence of the activities performed. For instance, records may be utilised to document traceability and to provide evidence of verification, preventive action and corrective action.
Reforestation
Reforestation is the planting of forests on lands which have recently had forests but which have been converted to some other use. Article 3.3 of the Kyoto Protocol limits reforestation to planting forests on lands that have not been forested since 1990.
Registries or Registry Systems
Registries are electronic databases that track and record GHG emissions and GHG emission allowance holdings, retirements, cancellations and transfers.
Relative Emissions Ratios (Intensity Ratios)
Whereas absolute emissions quantifies the amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases produced, relative emissions (emissions intensity) report the amount of emissions per some unit of economic output. In the case of CARBON CONTROL™ this can be done for a company relative to the companyÅs total turnover/revenue, EBIDTA, FTE or in terms of units of a good produced. For a country, emissions intensity might be calculated as tons of carbon dioxide relative to that countryÅs gross national product.
Relative/Intensity Target (CARBON CONTROL™ annual reduction targets) A target defined by reduction in the ratio of emissions and an organisationÅs business metric over time. Targets are expressed as emissions per unit of economic output (e.g., turnover/revenue, EBIDTA, FTE, or physical production). If an organisation is complying with the CARBON CONTROL™ Standard, the organisation must reduce relative carbon emissions by an average of 3 percent annually from when they were first awarded the CARBON CONTROL™ Mark of approval.
Renewable Energy
This is energy which comes from inexhaustible sources, such as hydro, wind, water, solar, geothermal energy, biofuels, etc.
Reporting
Reporting is the presentation of data to internal management and external users like regulators, shareholders, general public or specific stakeholder groups.
Reservoir
A reservoir is a component of the planetÅs climate system, other than the planetÅs atmosphere, that has the capacity to store, accumulate, or release GHGs. Examples of carbon reservoirs include the oceans, soils, and forests.
Scope 1 Emissions (Direct carbon emissions)
Scope 1 emissions are direct GHG emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organisation. Scope 1 can include emissions from fossil fuels burned on site, emissions from entity-owned or entity-leased vehicles, and other direct sources.
Scope 2 Emissions (Indirect carbon emissions)
Scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions resulting from the generation of electricity, heating and cooling, or steam generated off site but purchased by the organisation, and the transmission and distribution (T&D) losses associated with some purchased utilities (e.g., chilled water, steam, and high temperature hot water).
SF6
Sulfur Hexafluoride
Sink
Any process, activity or mechanism which removes a GHG from our planetÅs atmosphere to a reservoir.
SME Small or Medium Enterprise
Standard
A standard uses a set of criteria or requirements to define good business practice or performance, be it social, environmental, quality, safety, health, technical, or ethical, etc. Credible standards oversee certified performance, most often through accreditation bodies, ensuring that audits are consistent and the results are globally recognised. Standards are a management tool with the power to transform supply chains and they can even show the way to sustainability. Standards sometimes use some form of incentive to move producers up the ladder of performance from entry level standards, with lower but meaningful performance requirements, to higher performance standards with bigger rewards.
Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
SF6 is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. SF6 is a synthetic industrial gas which is frequently used in heavy industry to insulate high-voltage equipment and to aid with the production of cable-cooling systems. Natural sources of SF6 do not exist. SF6 has an atmospheric lifetime of 3,200 years. Its 100-year GWP is currently estimated to be 22,200 times that of CO2.
Scope 1 emissions are direct GHG emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the organisation. Scope 1 can include emissions from fossil fuels burned on site, emissions from entity-owned or entity-leased vehicles, and other direct sources.
Scope 2 Emissions (Indirect carbon emissions)
Scope 2 emissions are indirect GHG emissions resulting from the generation of electricity, heating and cooling, or steam generated off site but purchased by the organisation, and the transmission and distribution (T&D) losses associated with some purchased utilities (e.g., chilled water, steam, and high temperature hot water).
SF6
Sulfur Hexafluoride
Sink
Any process, activity or mechanism which removes a GHG from our planetÅs atmosphere to a reservoir.
SME Small or Medium Enterprise
Standard
A standard uses a set of criteria or requirements to define good business practice or performance, be it social, environmental, quality, safety, health, technical, or ethical, etc. Credible standards oversee certified performance, most often through accreditation bodies, ensuring that audits are consistent and the results are globally recognised. Standards are a management tool with the power to transform supply chains and they can even show the way to sustainability. Standards sometimes use some form of incentive to move producers up the ladder of performance from entry level standards, with lower but meaningful performance requirements, to higher performance standards with bigger rewards.
Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6)
SF6 is one of the six GHGs to be covered under the Kyoto Protocol. SF6 is a synthetic industrial gas which is frequently used in heavy industry to insulate high-voltage equipment and to aid with the production of cable-cooling systems. Natural sources of SF6 do not exist. SF6 has an atmospheric lifetime of 3,200 years. Its 100-year GWP is currently estimated to be 22,200 times that of CO2.
Therm(s)
A unit of heat which is equal to 100,000 British thermal units (1.054 x 108 joules).
Tool (CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool)
The CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool calculates the organisationÅs direct carbon emissions (Scope 1) and indirect carbon emissions (Scope 2) using credible and transparent methodologies based on the most robust internationally recognised standards of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). In cases where an organisationÅs annual emissions have already been verified by an independent auditor these verified emissionsÅ figures may be used in the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool, removing the need to repeat the detailed calculations.
Top management
Top management is a individual or group of individuals who direct(s) and control(s) an organisation at the highest level. Top management controls the organisation defined within the scope and boundaries of the EnMS.
Trademark graphics file (CARBON CONTROL™ trademark graphics file)
The image file formats for the CARBON CONTROL™ logo/mark
Turnover of the organisation or Revenue
"Overall Annual Turnover" or "Turnover" means the average gross annual revenue arising from the sale of all products, goods and services. "Turnover" means the "Overall Annual Turnover".
A unit of heat which is equal to 100,000 British thermal units (1.054 x 108 joules).
Tool (CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool)
The CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool calculates the organisationÅs direct carbon emissions (Scope 1) and indirect carbon emissions (Scope 2) using credible and transparent methodologies based on the most robust internationally recognised standards of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). In cases where an organisationÅs annual emissions have already been verified by an independent auditor these verified emissionsÅ figures may be used in the CARBON CONTROL™ Emissions Performance Tool, removing the need to repeat the detailed calculations.
Top management
Top management is a individual or group of individuals who direct(s) and control(s) an organisation at the highest level. Top management controls the organisation defined within the scope and boundaries of the EnMS.
Trademark graphics file (CARBON CONTROL™ trademark graphics file)
The image file formats for the CARBON CONTROL™ logo/mark
Turnover of the organisation or Revenue
"Overall Annual Turnover" or "Turnover" means the average gross annual revenue arising from the sale of all products, goods and services. "Turnover" means the "Overall Annual Turnover".
UN
United Nations.
UNCCD
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
UNDP
United Nations Development Programme
UNFCCC
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
USP
Unique Selling Proposition
UV UltraViolet
United Nations.
UNCCD
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification
UNDP
United Nations Development Programme
UNFCCC
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
USP
Unique Selling Proposition
UV UltraViolet
Verification/Verify
In the case of CARBON CONTROL™, verification/verify is the process of testing or checking, carried out by an independent CARBON CONTROL™ auditor, to ensure that the CARBON CONTROL™ assessments and measurements are performed properly and reliably for an organisation. In the case of emissions trading, verification is the process whereby an independent certification body/party, tests and checks that an GHG emission reduction project has actually achieved the GHG emission reductions commensurate with the credits that it receives.
In the case of CARBON CONTROL™, verification/verify is the process of testing or checking, carried out by an independent CARBON CONTROL™ auditor, to ensure that the CARBON CONTROL™ assessments and measurements are performed properly and reliably for an organisation. In the case of emissions trading, verification is the process whereby an independent certification body/party, tests and checks that an GHG emission reduction project has actually achieved the GHG emission reductions commensurate with the credits that it receives.
WBCSD
World Business Council for Sustainable Development
WCI
Western Climate Initiative
WRI
World Resources Institute
WWF
World Wildlife Fund
World Business Council for Sustainable Development
WCI
Western Climate Initiative
WRI
World Resources Institute
WWF
World Wildlife Fund
