Greenhouse gas accounting methodologies explained

For: Multinational Organisation

[Jun – Sep 2020]

The client is active in the field of a specific renewable fuel which can be used in the transport sector. studio Gear Up explained the basics of greenhouse gas accounting following the ISO 14040 standard, and how this relates to application of the methodology in prominent EU and US tools: Biograce and GREET respectively. We explained in great detail the methodology of the EU Renewable Energy Directive. We evaluated the carbon footprints that are publicly reported for the specific fuel. We discussed the quality of underlying data and how this could and should be improved with realistic industry practice data. Policy makers are currently basing support mechanisms on outdated assumptions and this could have great consequences for the appreciation of the renewable fuel.

As part of the assignment we executed an Industry Structure Analysis and a Materiality analyse to identify which external factors, like changing policy environment, may influence the industry sector’s operations. Understanding the greenhouse gas performance might give input to future strategic directions of the industry.

Related

Analysis of SAF allowances (FEETS) – 2024-price update

February 2025, the European Commission adopted a new support mechanism on ‘SAF allowances’: used to bridge the price gap for the use of alternative fuels to accelerate the roll out of SAF.
We reviewed this mechanism in order to assess its expected impact on supporting the development of SAF market. We conclude that the policy design would require additional policy instruments to support the broader development of the SAF market.

Read More

Current POME-based biofuels in EU fall within current production potential 

According to studio Gear Up’s numerical analysis, the current volume of POME-biofuels deployed in the EU are in the range of current production volumes of POME residues. We advise to keep a close look on the future volumes of POME-based biofuels, given the upper limits of production. Strengthening the information position of renewable fuels supply chains with more frequent auditing and historical data of POME-oil production are needed.

Read More

SAF allowances may not be the best instrument to ramp up SAF production

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) are renewable fuels that replace fossil based kerosine in aircrafts and are seen as an important option to mitigate climate emissions in the aviation sector. Generally, these alternative fuels are more expensive than their fossil counterpart, kerosene. In order to support the uptake of SAF, the European Commission has introduced several policy instruments.

Read More
Scroll to Top