GHG Protocol, Scope 1, 2 & 3 Simple Diagram

Upstream (GHG Categories 1–8)

1. Purchased goods and services – GHG Emissions from producing goods/services your company buys.

2. Capital goods – Emissions from producing long-life assets you purchase (machinery, buildings, equipment).

3. Fuel- and energy-related activities (not included in Scope 1 or 2) – Upstream emissions from fuels and electricity you use (well-to-tank, transmission losses, etc.).

4. Upstream transportation and distribution – Third-party transport/storage of purchased goods to your sites.

5. Waste generated in operations – Treatment/disposal of waste from your operations (by third parties).

6. Business travel – Employee business travel in vehicles not owned/controlled by the company.

7. Employee commuting – Emissions from employees travelling between home and work.

8. Upstream leased assets – Operation of assets you lease (where not already in Scope 1/2).

Downstream (GHG Categories 9–15)

9. Downstream transportation and distribution – Transport/storage of sold products after they leave your control.

10. Processing of sold products – Further processing of intermediate products sold by your company.

11. Use of sold products – GHG Emissions from customers using your products (often the largest for energy-using products).

12. End-of-life treatment of sold products – Disposal/recycling/landfill/incineration of products you sell.

13. Downstream leased assets – Operation of assets you own and lease to others (not in Scope 1/2).

14. Franchises – Operation of franchisee activities (not in Scope 1/2).

15. Investments – Emissions from investments, including financed emissions (relevant to financial institutions and investors).