What is the difference between Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions?

These three scopes are defined by the GHG Protocol to help organizations categorize their emissions sources:

• Scope 1 – Direct emissions: Emissions from sources you own or control directly (e.g. company vehicles, on-site fuel combustion, industrial processes).

• Scope 2 – Indirect energy emissions: Emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, heating, cooling, or steam consumed by your organization.

• Scope 3 – Indirect value chain emissions: All other indirect emissions that occur in your value chain — from supplier activities to product use, business travel, employee commuting, waste, and more.

Scope 1 and 2 are typically easier to measure, while Scope 3 requires deeper data collection and supplier engagement — but is essential for understanding your full climate impact.