Zero Emissions in Trasport? How GLEC v3 can help you
The GLEC Framework v3 is a crucial update to the protocol developed by the Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC). Its primary goal is to help companies and organizations measure and manage greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in their transportation and logistics activities. If you want to make your company more sustainable, the GLEC Framework is a valuable resource to explore.
The GLEC Framework v2 classified logistics emissions into three scopes, following the accounting principles of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Scope 1 includes direct emissions from assets owned or controlled by the reporting company, Scope 2 covers indirect emissions from the production and distribution of electricity, heat, and steam consumed by the company, and Scope 3 includes indirect emissions from the company’s supply chain, such as transportation emissions and product use.
The GLEC Framework v3, in line with ISO 14083, divides overall greenhouse gas emissions into emissions related to the use of energy for transportation operations or hub tank-to-wheel (TTW) and emissions related to the provision of this energy well-to-tank (WTT). Let’s delve into the main sections of this manual and what they mean for companies.
INTRODUCTION AND FRAMEWORK PURPOSE
This section explains the main objectives of the GLEC Framework, namely the standardization of methods for calculating transportation-related emissions. V3 introduces improvements to ensure greater accuracy and transparency in emissions reporting. The GLEC Framework aligns with international standards, including the GHG Protocol and sustainability initiatives like the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
BASIC PRINCIPLES
The framework is based on key principles such as transparency, consistency, and comparability. This section outlines the conceptual basis for calculating emissions, emphasizing that they should be reliable and replicable. Version 3 updates some criteria to better align with business needs and new data available.
EMISSIONS MEASUREMENT METHODOLOGIES
A central part of the GLEC Framework is the detailed explanation of methodologies for measuring emissions. This section includes information on how to collect data, what units of measurement to use, and how to calculate emissions for various transportation modes, such as trucks, trains, ships, and airplanes. It provides significant space for specific models for each mode, allowing for more accurate emissions calculations.
EMISSIONS CATEGORIES
In this part of the manual, the GLEC Framework classifies emissions as direct and indirect, according to the GHG Protocol (Scopes 1, 2, and 3). Direct emissions are those produced by the company's own vehicles, while indirect emissions include those generated by suppliers and other partners in the supply chain.
REPORTING AND COMMUNICATION
This section is crucial for companies that want to share their progress in reducing emissions. The framework provides guidelines on how to present data clearly and understandably, both for internal use and for public relations or regulatory obligations. It also addresses the topic of assurance, ensuring that the reported data is verified and accurate.
BENCHMARKING AND TARGETS
The GLEC Framework V3 helps companies set emission reduction targets in line with industry best practices. It introduces a benchmarking system that allows businesses to compare themselves with other sector players and track progress over time. This section explains how to establish realistic targets in accordance with climate change commitments.
IMPLEMENTATION AND TOOLS
Finally, the manual offers practical tools and suggestions for implementing the framework within a company. There are guidelines for data collection and management, recommended software, and case studies showing how companies have successfully adopted the framework.
The GLEC Framework v3 represents a significant step forward for companies looking to reduce their emissions in the transportation sector. Each section of the manual provides practical instructions to enhance transparency and effectiveness in logistics operations, helping organizations contribute to the fight against climate change.
