Emission factor databases compared: A comprehensive analysis of leading resources
Tobias Martetschlaeger
6Min. reading time
Corporate Sustainability
Emission factors (EF) form a crucial basis for understanding and assessing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). While certain sectors require specific emission factors, overarching databases provide a holistic view of GHG and their components across various industries and activities. Various databases, such as Climatiq, DEFRA, or Ecoinvent, offer different approaches and methodologies for calculating these factors. As companies, research institutions, and policymakers need accurate and relevant emission factors, benchmarks from these emission databases are essential. To help you identify emission sources more precisely and develop more efficient strategies for emission reduction, we offer you a comprehensive comparison of various emission factor databases available for free download.
The choice of a suitable database for emission factors depends on various factors. Factors such as the desired level of detail, consideration of different scopes, data availability, regional specifications, and many more play a significant role in the correct selection of an appropriate emissions database. Our free comparison provides you with more detailed information on the relevant selection categories of emission factor databases. Furthermore, it offers you a clear orientation in selecting the right database. You can conveniently download the benchmark with a click on the download button at the end of this article.
Emission Factor Databases: The Essentials at a Glance
Emission factors are central to understanding greenhouse gas emissions.
The selection of the database depends on many factors such as the scope coverage, the underlying emission data, and regional requirements.
Database comparisons promote precise analyses and strategies for reducing emissions.
Understanding Emission Factors: Database Comparison
In the context of global climate change, emission factors play a critical role in the assessment and comparability of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). They serve as fundamental data points to quantify and analyze the emissions from various sectors such as electricity generation, transportation, and industry.
Definition and Importance of Emission Factors
Emission factors are specific values that indicate how many greenhouse gases – particularly CO2 emissions – are released per energy unit during the combustion of fossil fuels or other processes, such as in cement production. These factors are essential for calculating GHG and are relevant for implementing measures to reduce global warming.
Data Collection Methodology
The data collection for emission factors is based on a variety of sources, including emissions trading data, documentation from environmental agencies, and open data sources. Measurement methods and calculation procedures are subject to strict quality control to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data.
Comparison of Emission Factor Databases
The emission databases being compared offer diverse information on the CO2 emissions of different energy carriers, industries, and regions. They vary in detail level, geographical coverage, and the presentation of data for different user groups.
For a more precise analysis of GHG along your production line and supply chain, a comprehensive comparison of emission factor databases is available for free. You can conveniently download it by clicking the download button at the end of this article.
Ember Electricity Data Explorer
The Ember Electricity Data Explorer focuses on electricity data and includes information on electricity generation, the energy mix, and the associated emissions worldwide. The database features emission factors from Scope 2. Detailed data on electricity production and its CO2 intensity enable comparisons between countries and regions. The availability of data is very high.
EPA
The United States Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, offers an emissions database that focuses on air pollutants including greenhouse gases from various sources. Its emission factors cover all scopes. The data is broken down by various sectors such as energy, industry, and transportation. The immediate availability of data is very high.
AIB
The AIB (Association of Issuing Bodies) provides a platform for accessing information on guarantees of origin for electricity from renewable energies in Europe. The data pertains to the certification and tracking of green electricity. AIB covers Scope 2. Additionally, the data availability is very high.
Climate Transparency
Climate Transparency is an international partnership that publishes the “Brown to Green Report” annually. This report evaluates and compares the climate policies and performances of G20 countries, focusing on their energy and emissions data that represent Scope 2. The immediate availability of data is high.
NEEFE (FAR)
The NEEFE (Network for Energy, Environment and Health in the Framework of the Environmental Accounting) is a project that conducts research on environmental economics and emission factors that represent Scope 2. The FAR (Format for Automatic Reporting) is part of this network and deals with simplifying emissions reporting. NEEFE (FAR) has low data availability.
Carbonfootprint.com
Carbonfootprint.com targets businesses and individuals looking to calculate and reduce their carbon footprint. The emission factors used represent Scope 2. The platform provides tools for calculating emissions based on activity data and offers suggestions for possible compensation measures. Furthermore, the data availability is very high.
Electricity Maps
Electricity Maps provides real-time data on CO2 emissions from electricity generation as well as the energy mix of various countries. Thus, their data availability is very high. The data that represent Scope 2 is presented visually and illustrates the current CO2 emissions status in the electricity sector.
DEFRA
The British DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) publishes annual emission factors covering Scopes 1, 2, and 3 for a variety of activities and processes. The data availability is also very high. These activities and processes help organizations calculate their carbon footprint and are specifically tailored to the United Kingdom.
Ecoinvent
The Ecoinvent database provides extensive information on the environmental impacts of various products and services throughout their entire life cycle. Emission factors from Scope 3 are represented in this database. It is mainly used for life cycle assessments and sustainable product development. The data availability is very high.
Understanding Emission-Intensive Industries and Their Emission Factors
Emissions from various economic sectors vary significantly, with the type of energy use and production technologies playing a crucial role. Key elements include the intensity of energy consumption and the degree of implementation of renewable energy sources. Use our free comparison of emission factor databases to gain a clear overview of the complex composition of your greenhouse gas emissions. The overview considers sector-specific differences and helps you make informed decisions for your sustainability strategy. Download now and start analyzing emission sources systematically!
Electricity and Heat Production
Electricity and heat production is one of the main contributors to GHG, with fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas dominating. Renewable energies such as wind and solar power contribute to reduction by providing clean electricity and decreasing the demand for fossil fuels.
Aviation and Shipping Emissions
Aviation and shipping are significant sources of emissions, particularly of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Environmental initiatives and technological innovations aim to reduce fossil fuel consumption and develop alternatives such as electric vehicles for air and maritime transport.
The Role of Industrial Processes
Industrial processes generate considerable amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Various sectors are increasingly exploring the use of renewable energy sources and more efficient production methods to lower emission values.
Free Download: Comparison of Emission Factor Databases
Download our free comparison of emission factor databases now – the ideal foundation for an informed and complete CO₂ inventory for your company. With the right selection, you reliably cover Scopes 1, 2, and 3. Take the opportunity to make your climate strategy more efficient and take the next step toward decarbonization. Download now and get started!
Frequently Asked Questions about Emission Factor Databases
How is the emission factor determined for different energy sources?
The emission factor for different energy sources is determined by considering the direct emissions during combustion as well as indirect emissions arising from the extraction, processing, and transportation of the energy sources.
What factors should be considered when selecting an emission factor database?
When selecting an emission factor database, one should pay attention to data currency, geographical coverage, details of the emission sources, as well as methodological transparency and scientific recognition.
Are free emission factor databases as reliable as paid options?
The reliability of free emission factor databases depends on the quality of data sources, data availability, and transparent methodology. They can be comparable to paid options but require careful verification.
Can free emission factor databases be used for regulatory purposes?
Free emission factor databases can be used for regulatory purposes under certain conditions if they choose recognized methodology and provide sufficient documentation and validation.
How are emission factors calculated for different energy carriers?
Emission factors for different energy carriers are calculated by analyzing the fuel, its calorific value, and specific combustion properties. They also consider the factors arising during the life cycle of energy production.
How up-to-date is the data in the emission factor databases?The currency of the data in the emission factor databases varies depending on the information source. Some databases are updated annually, while others provide real-time data on electricity generation and its emission factors.
What methodology underlies the calculation of emission factors?
The calculation of emission factors is based on a methodology that follows the life-cycle approach and integrates all greenhouse gas emissions associated with the generation of energy and the combustion of fuels.
*For ease of readability, we use the term CO2. However, we understand it more broadly here, in the sense of "CO2 equivalents" or CO2e. CO2e is a metric used to measure the climate impacts of all greenhouse gases by converting their emissions into an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide based on their global warming potential. In discussions about CO2 reduction in companies, it is generally better to use CO2e because it provides a more comprehensive picture of a company's total emissions by accounting for not just carbon dioxide, but also other significant greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide.
Emission factors (EF) form a crucial basis for understanding and assessing greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). While certain sectors require specific emission factors, overarching databases provide a holistic view of GHG and their components across various industries and activities. Various databases, such as Climatiq, DEFRA, or Ecoinvent, offer different approaches and methodologies for calculating these factors. As companies, research institutions, and policymakers need accurate and relevant emission factors, benchmarks from these emission databases are essential. To help you identify emission sources more precisely and develop more efficient strategies for emission reduction, we offer you a comprehensive comparison of various emission factor databases available for free download.
The choice of a suitable database for emission factors depends on various factors. Factors such as the desired level of detail, consideration of different scopes, data availability, regional specifications, and many more play a significant role in the correct selection of an appropriate emissions database. Our free comparison provides you with more detailed information on the relevant selection categories of emission factor databases. Furthermore, it offers you a clear orientation in selecting the right database. You can conveniently download the benchmark with a click on the download button at the end of this article.
Emission Factor Databases: The Essentials at a Glance
Emission factors are central to understanding greenhouse gas emissions.
The selection of the database depends on many factors such as the scope coverage, the underlying emission data, and regional requirements.
Database comparisons promote precise analyses and strategies for reducing emissions.
Understanding Emission Factors: Database Comparison
In the context of global climate change, emission factors play a critical role in the assessment and comparability of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). They serve as fundamental data points to quantify and analyze the emissions from various sectors such as electricity generation, transportation, and industry.
Definition and Importance of Emission Factors
Emission factors are specific values that indicate how many greenhouse gases – particularly CO2 emissions – are released per energy unit during the combustion of fossil fuels or other processes, such as in cement production. These factors are essential for calculating GHG and are relevant for implementing measures to reduce global warming.
Data Collection Methodology
The data collection for emission factors is based on a variety of sources, including emissions trading data, documentation from environmental agencies, and open data sources. Measurement methods and calculation procedures are subject to strict quality control to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the data.
Comparison of Emission Factor Databases
The emission databases being compared offer diverse information on the CO2 emissions of different energy carriers, industries, and regions. They vary in detail level, geographical coverage, and the presentation of data for different user groups.
For a more precise analysis of GHG along your production line and supply chain, a comprehensive comparison of emission factor databases is available for free. You can conveniently download it by clicking the download button at the end of this article.
Ember Electricity Data Explorer
The Ember Electricity Data Explorer focuses on electricity data and includes information on electricity generation, the energy mix, and the associated emissions worldwide. The database features emission factors from Scope 2. Detailed data on electricity production and its CO2 intensity enable comparisons between countries and regions. The availability of data is very high.
EPA
The United States Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, offers an emissions database that focuses on air pollutants including greenhouse gases from various sources. Its emission factors cover all scopes. The data is broken down by various sectors such as energy, industry, and transportation. The immediate availability of data is very high.
AIB
The AIB (Association of Issuing Bodies) provides a platform for accessing information on guarantees of origin for electricity from renewable energies in Europe. The data pertains to the certification and tracking of green electricity. AIB covers Scope 2. Additionally, the data availability is very high.
Climate Transparency
Climate Transparency is an international partnership that publishes the “Brown to Green Report” annually. This report evaluates and compares the climate policies and performances of G20 countries, focusing on their energy and emissions data that represent Scope 2. The immediate availability of data is high.
NEEFE (FAR)
The NEEFE (Network for Energy, Environment and Health in the Framework of the Environmental Accounting) is a project that conducts research on environmental economics and emission factors that represent Scope 2. The FAR (Format for Automatic Reporting) is part of this network and deals with simplifying emissions reporting. NEEFE (FAR) has low data availability.
Carbonfootprint.com
Carbonfootprint.com targets businesses and individuals looking to calculate and reduce their carbon footprint. The emission factors used represent Scope 2. The platform provides tools for calculating emissions based on activity data and offers suggestions for possible compensation measures. Furthermore, the data availability is very high.
Electricity Maps
Electricity Maps provides real-time data on CO2 emissions from electricity generation as well as the energy mix of various countries. Thus, their data availability is very high. The data that represent Scope 2 is presented visually and illustrates the current CO2 emissions status in the electricity sector.
DEFRA
The British DEFRA (Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs) publishes annual emission factors covering Scopes 1, 2, and 3 for a variety of activities and processes. The data availability is also very high. These activities and processes help organizations calculate their carbon footprint and are specifically tailored to the United Kingdom.
Ecoinvent
The Ecoinvent database provides extensive information on the environmental impacts of various products and services throughout their entire life cycle. Emission factors from Scope 3 are represented in this database. It is mainly used for life cycle assessments and sustainable product development. The data availability is very high.
Understanding Emission-Intensive Industries and Their Emission Factors
Emissions from various economic sectors vary significantly, with the type of energy use and production technologies playing a crucial role. Key elements include the intensity of energy consumption and the degree of implementation of renewable energy sources. Use our free comparison of emission factor databases to gain a clear overview of the complex composition of your greenhouse gas emissions. The overview considers sector-specific differences and helps you make informed decisions for your sustainability strategy. Download now and start analyzing emission sources systematically!
Electricity and Heat Production
Electricity and heat production is one of the main contributors to GHG, with fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and gas dominating. Renewable energies such as wind and solar power contribute to reduction by providing clean electricity and decreasing the demand for fossil fuels.
Aviation and Shipping Emissions
Aviation and shipping are significant sources of emissions, particularly of carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides. Environmental initiatives and technological innovations aim to reduce fossil fuel consumption and develop alternatives such as electric vehicles for air and maritime transport.
The Role of Industrial Processes
Industrial processes generate considerable amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Various sectors are increasingly exploring the use of renewable energy sources and more efficient production methods to lower emission values.
Free Download: Comparison of Emission Factor Databases
Download our free comparison of emission factor databases now – the ideal foundation for an informed and complete CO₂ inventory for your company. With the right selection, you reliably cover Scopes 1, 2, and 3. Take the opportunity to make your climate strategy more efficient and take the next step toward decarbonization. Download now and get started!
Frequently Asked Questions about Emission Factor Databases
How is the emission factor determined for different energy sources?
The emission factor for different energy sources is determined by considering the direct emissions during combustion as well as indirect emissions arising from the extraction, processing, and transportation of the energy sources.
What factors should be considered when selecting an emission factor database?
When selecting an emission factor database, one should pay attention to data currency, geographical coverage, details of the emission sources, as well as methodological transparency and scientific recognition.
Are free emission factor databases as reliable as paid options?
The reliability of free emission factor databases depends on the quality of data sources, data availability, and transparent methodology. They can be comparable to paid options but require careful verification.
Can free emission factor databases be used for regulatory purposes?
Free emission factor databases can be used for regulatory purposes under certain conditions if they choose recognized methodology and provide sufficient documentation and validation.
How are emission factors calculated for different energy carriers?
Emission factors for different energy carriers are calculated by analyzing the fuel, its calorific value, and specific combustion properties. They also consider the factors arising during the life cycle of energy production.
How up-to-date is the data in the emission factor databases?The currency of the data in the emission factor databases varies depending on the information source. Some databases are updated annually, while others provide real-time data on electricity generation and its emission factors.
What methodology underlies the calculation of emission factors?
The calculation of emission factors is based on a methodology that follows the life-cycle approach and integrates all greenhouse gas emissions associated with the generation of energy and the combustion of fuels.
*For ease of readability, we use the term CO2. However, we understand it more broadly here, in the sense of "CO2 equivalents" or CO2e. CO2e is a metric used to measure the climate impacts of all greenhouse gases by converting their emissions into an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide based on their global warming potential. In discussions about CO2 reduction in companies, it is generally better to use CO2e because it provides a more comprehensive picture of a company's total emissions by accounting for not just carbon dioxide, but also other significant greenhouse gases like methane and nitrous oxide.
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