CO2 Equivalent

The CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) is a unit of measurement that allows the climate impact of different greenhouse gases (GHGs) to be compared by converting them into a common figure based on carbon dioxide (CO₂). The Global Warming Potential (GWP) of each gas is used to calculate how many tons of CO₂ would cause the same effect on global warming.

For example, methane (CH₄) has a GWP of 28 over a 100-year time horizon, meaning that one ton of CH₄ equals 28 tons of CO₂e.

How is it calculated?

CO₂e = amount of GHG × GWP of the GHG

Applications of CO₂e

• Carbon footprint: Assesses the total impact of products, activities, or services.
• Climate policy design: Helps set reduction goals and mitigation strategies.
• Carbon markets: Used as the base unit for carbon credits and offsets.
  
  

The use of CO₂e standardizes the measurement of climate impact and facilitates communication, decision-making, and emission traceability.

 

At airCO2 we help you calculate your CO₂e emissions automatically and accurately. Request a demo and discover how to reduce your footprint.