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ISO and GHG Protocol Unite: A New Era in Global Carbon Accounting

A Landmark Partnership for Climate Accountability

In a major step toward harmonizing global climate standards, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) have announced a strategic partnership to deliver unified global standards for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accounting.

This announcement, made on September 9, 2025, in Washington, D.C., marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of carbon reporting. For the first time, two of the most widely adopted climate frameworks will be integrated into a single, coherent system—simplifying emissions measurement and reporting for companies, governments, and investors worldwide.

What's Changing?

Until now, ISO and GHG Protocol standards were developed separately, often leading to overlapping requirements and inconsistent guidance. This partnership addresses that challenge head-on by:

  • Harmonizing existing standards: Including ISO's 1406X series and GHG Protocol's Scope 1, 2, and 3 frameworks
  • Co-developing new standards: Especially a product carbon footprint standard to meet growing demand for value chain transparency
  • Creating dual-logo standards: Offering a unified language for emissions reporting across sectors and borders

Why It Matters ?

The ISO–GHG Protocol partnership is more than a technical alignment—it's a strategic leap forward for global decarbonization. For businesses, governments, and sustainability leaders, this unified framework offers:

  • Simplified Compliance: Reduces complexity by merging two leading standards into one coherent system.
  • Credible, Comparable Data: Enables consistent emissions reporting across sectors and borders—essential for investors, auditors, and regulators.
  • Stronger Climate Disclosures: Supports science-based targets and net-zero commitments with globally recognized guidance.
  • Alignment with Global Initiatives: Reinforces frameworks like the ISSB's sustainability baseline and COP30 goals.
  • Future-Proofing Your Strategy: Prepares your organization for upcoming regulatory shifts and stakeholder expectations.

Timeline

The harmonized standards are currently under development through a joint technical process. Here's what to expect:

Q4 2025 – Q2 2026

Technical collaboration begins, with working groups from ISO and GHG Protocol aligning methodologies, definitions, and verification protocols.

Mid-2026

Draft harmonized standards expected to be released for public consultation. Stakeholders will be invited to provide feedback.

Late 2026 – Early 2027

Final versions of the co-branded ISO–GHG Protocol standards anticipated for global rollout.

In the Meantime

  • Organizations should continue using existing ISO 1406X and GHG Protocol standards for compliance and reporting.
  • Companies preparing for net-zero targets or enhanced disclosures can begin aligning internal systems with both frameworks.
  • Early adopters may benefit from engaging in pilot programs or consultation processes to shape the final standards.

How Varuna Sentinels Can Help

At Varuna Sentinels, we specialize in guiding organizations through the complexities of carbon accounting. With the new ISO–GHG Protocol standards on the horizon, we're ready to help you:

Calculate Your Carbon Footprint

Accurately measure your organization's greenhouse gas emissions across all scopes.

Develop Emission Reduction Strategies

Create actionable pathways to reduce your carbon footprint and achieve net-zero goals.

Report GHG Emissions with Confidence

Ensure compliant, transparent, and credible emissions reporting aligned with global standards.

Let's work together to build a credible, science-based path to net-zero.

Final Thoughts

The ISO–GHG Protocol partnership represents a transformative moment for global carbon accounting. By unifying two of the world's most respected standards, this collaboration will accelerate corporate climate action, enhance data credibility, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Ready to align your organization with the future of carbon accounting?

Reach out to Varuna Sentinels at contact@varuna-sentinels.com or visit our website www.varuna-sentinels.com