GHG Protocol Policy and Action Standard
Greenhouse Gas Protocol
Guidelines to measure and manage greenhouse gas policies efficiently.
The GHG Protocol Policy and Action Standard costs $0 USD. Renewal costs $0 USD.
Key Strengths
- Developed with input from 270+ participants across 40 countries, ensuring global relevance
- Pilot-tested on 27 policies and actions in 20 countries and cities
- Provides standardized, credible methodology for GHG policy impact estimation
- Backed by WRI and WBCSD — two of the world's most respected sustainability institutions
- Supports both national and subnational (local) policy analysis
- Accompanied by a free online e-learning course for practical application
Ideal For
This standard is best suited for government analysts, policy advisors, and climate researchers at national or subnational levels who need a rigorous, internationally recognized framework for quantifying GHG impacts of climate policies. It is also valuable for NGOs, international development organizations, and consultants supporting governments in designing, evaluating, or reporting on climate mitigation actions.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Scope
Overview
The GHG Protocol Policy and Action Standard helps policymakers and organizations measure and manage greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from policies and actions. Developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), its goal is to enable transparent reporting of GHG impacts. The standard was created in response to the need for consistent and credible methods to track progress on climate policies. It supports various stakeholders including governments, businesses, and NGOs in assessing the effectiveness of climate actions.
Key features include guidelines for setting baselines, estimating impacts, and assessing both positive and negative effects of policies. The standard aims to improve accountability and facilitate informed decision-making. Notable users include national governments and international organizations engaged in climate policy, showcasing its global relevance. This tool is pivotal for advancing climate goals and fostering international cooperation on GHG reduction initiatives.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
No formal certification or credentialing process exists — this is a voluntary methodological standard. Users apply the standard's guidelines to their policy analysis and self-report results. Documentation of baseline scenarios, policy scope, data sources, and GHG impact calculations is expected as part of transparent reporting in line with the standard's requirements.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
There is no formal exam or audit process. The GHG Protocol Policy and Action Standard is a voluntary methodological framework. Users self-apply the standard's guidelines to their policy analysis, documenting baselines, scope, and GHG impact estimates. An optional online e-learning course is available to support correct application of the standard.
Renewal & Compliance
There are no formal renewal requirements. The GHG Protocol Policy and Action Standard is a voluntary framework, not a time-limited credential. Users are encouraged to stay current with any updates or revisions to the standard published by the GHG Protocol.
Accountability Model
Impact & Outcomes
Salary & Market Value
No published salary impact data is available for this standard, as it is a voluntary methodological framework rather than a professional certification. Proficiency in GHG Protocol standards is generally valued in climate policy, sustainability consulting, and government roles.
Employer Recognition
Consider Alternatives If...
This standard is not appropriate for organizations seeking a certification of their own operations, products, or facilities — it is a methodological framework for policy analysis, not a credential. Those looking for corporate GHG accounting or project-level carbon crediting should consider other GHG Protocol standards or ISO 14064.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2019
Cost Breakdown
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
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Sources & Citations
Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
Greenhouse Gas ProtocolLast verified Mar 10, 2026