Collecting data for carbon footprinting can feel overwhelming at first, but following a clear process makes it manageable. This guide will take you step-by-step, helping you stay organised, and gather all necessary information for each Scope.
Data Collection Timeline
We recommend starting data collection at least two months before your reporting deadline (adding more time to this if you also wish to verify externally, and set targets). Here’s a suggested timeline to keep things manageable:
Scope 1 and 2: allocate 1–2 weeks each, since they’re often managed internally.
Scope 3: start supplier and internal cross-department outreach 4–6 weeks in advance, to allow your teams to understand and collect the necessary data.
Remember that data input and checking in the My Emissions platform will also take time. Allocate at least 2-3 weeks for this, to ensure you have buffer time.
Step-by-Step Data Collection Process
Step 1: Define Your Reporting Period
To get started, select a consistent timeframe, like the calendar year, or your last financial year, for your carbon footprint. This reporting period creates a baseline that future reports will be compared against. When submitting the data in your account, the My Emissions platform will ask you to confirm this timeline.
Step 2: Understand the Requirements of Leading Standards
Our process aligns with the GHG Protocol, and incorporates recommendations from WRAP and SBTi.
Here’s what your Company Carbon Footprint will need to include:
Must include all Scope 1 & 2 emissions (e.g., fuel and electricity).
Must include Category 1 - Purchased Goods & Services (Scope 3).
For setting near-term targets: must include at least 67% of Scope 3 emissions to cover significant areas.
For setting long-term reduction targets: should include at least 90% of all Scope 3 emissions.
Must be verified by an independent third-party to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Step 3: Understand Data Needed for Each Scope Using Our Guides
Now it’s time to map out the data needed for each Scope. We recommend using our Data Collection Checklist, or something similar, to plan out exactly what types of data are relevant to your company.
Refer to the Scope-specific articles in this guide for detailed data requirements:
Each Scope article provides a simple table with data categories, examples, and instructions to make it easier to know exactly what to collect.
Tip: Use the Data Collection Checklist to split up larger categories as needed (e.g. if you have multiple team members overseeing different parts of your purchased goods & services), or delete any categories that do not apply to you (e.g. if you do not use refrigeration).
Step 4: Identify Data Sources and Assign Responsibilities
With your Data Collection Checklist set, confirm the records you’ll need, like invoices, utility bills, supplier data, and waste logs. Assign each category to relevant team members:
Scope 1: often managed by operations or maintenance teams, focusing on fuel use and refrigerants.
Scope 2: often handled by finance or operations for energy bills.
Scope 3: often involves procurement, logistics teams, and key suppliers for purchased goods, waste, and transport.
Tip: Many businesses find it helpful to meet with these departments first to brief them on data needs and timelines.
Step 5: Allocate Time and Engage Suppliers Early
Some categories, such as Scope 3 data or Scope 3 electricity emissions factors can involve external supplier input, so starting outreach early is key. Give suppliers plenty of time to respond and plan for potential follow-up.
Suggested Timeline:
Scope 1 and 2: these are often managed internally, so 1–2 weeks should be sufficient.
Scope 3: start 4–6 weeks before your deadline to gather and review data from your teams and suppliers.
Tip: Set weekly check-ins with your team and suppliers to stay on track. It’s common for Scope 3 data to take the most time, so a consistent follow-up schedule helps prevent delays.
Step 6: Review for Accuracy and Completeness
Use our best practice from this guide to review your collected data for accuracy, including:
Required Coverage: double-check that Scope 1 and 2 are fully covered, and that Scope 3 meets at least 67% coverage, with a target of 90%.
Check Units and Consistency: verify that all units are consistent (e.g., kWh for energy, kg for waste) and correct any outliers.
Tip: Before submission, look over each file one last time to spot any unusual values. It’s common to find small corrections that improve the final report.
Remember: We’re here to help every step of the way. If you’re unsure about any part of the process, feel free to reach out to our team. Following these steps will ensure your carbon footprint report is accurate, compliant, and as straightforward as possible.