Greenhouse Gas Protocol for Food Companies

With in-depth expertise in the food value chain, RISE helps you identify relevant emissions data and prioritize actions. We base our work on the GHG Protocol – the global standard that clearly shows where emissions occur in operations and throughout the value chain, forming the foundation for climate reporting in line with e.g CSRD, VSME and SBTi.

The GHG Protocol divides emissions into three scopes – within the company’s own operations and across the entire value chain – to enable clear and comparable climate reporting.

The GHG Protocol consists of several standards and guidelines that support companies in measuring, understanding, and reporting their emissions in a consistent and transparent way. At the core of the protocol is the classification of emissions into three categories – known as “scopes” – which makes it possible to map the full climate impact, from direct emissions in your own operations to indirect emissions across the value chain. This structure makes it easier to identify improvement areas, set relevant climate targets, and meet legal requirements and customer expectations.

Scope 1 covers direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company. Examples include company-owned factories/facilities, refrigerant leakage, company vehicles, and machinery.
Scope 2 includes indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling.
Scope 3 includes all other indirect emissions generated throughout the value chain, both upstream and downstream. This may include emissions from purchased goods and services, transport, business travel, or waste from your own operations. These emissions are divided into 15 categories under the GHG Protocol.

Scope 3 emissions often account for the largest share of a food company’s total climate impact – and are also the most complex to measure. That’s why it’s important to focus on the categories that are most relevant and material to your business. The result is a more comprehensive decision-making basis, helping you focus efforts where they will have the greatest impact.

Mapping emissions according to the GHG Protocol not only provides a clear picture of the current situation – it also builds a strong foundation for strategic decision-making, setting climate targets, and identifying effective actions. Such an analysis highlights the distribution of emissions, risks, and opportunities, while also meeting requirements from regulations, investors, and initiatives such as CSRD, VSME, SBTi, and CDP. It strengthens both your climate strategy and your company’s credibility – internally, externally, and across the entire value chain.

In need of support?

RISE supports you throughout the entire process – from mapping to reporting. We have specific experience helping small and medium-sized enterprises in their climate efforts and use tailored tools and methods, even for companies with limited resources. Get in touch, and we’ll design a solution that suits your needs.

We look forward to hearing from you!