CO2e (Carbon Dioxide Equivalent)
A standard unit expressing the global warming impact of any greenhouse gas
What is CO2e (Carbon Dioxide Equivalent)?
Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO2e) is a standard unit for measuring carbon footprints. It expresses the impact of each different greenhouse gas in terms of the amount of CO2 that would create the same amount of warming. This allows different gases to be compared and added together.
Why It Matters for SECR
SECR requires all emissions to be reported in tonnes of CO2e. Different greenhouse gases have different warming potentials—methane is 28-36 times more potent than CO2 over 100 years.
Examples
- 1
1 tonne of methane = 28-36 tonnes CO2e
- 2
1 tonne of nitrous oxide = 265-298 tonnes CO2e
- 3
Common refrigerants can be 1,000+ times more potent than CO2
SECR Reporting Requirements
All SECR emissions must be converted to and reported as tonnes of CO2e using the UK Government's conversion factors.
Related Terms
How CO2e (Carbon Dioxide Equivalent) Fits Into Your SECR Report
Understanding CO2e (Carbon Dioxide Equivalent) is essential for accurate SECR reporting. This concept appears throughout the reporting process—from data collection to final disclosure. Make sure your finance and sustainability teams have a shared understanding of this term.
For practical guidance on applying this concept, see our calculation guides or use the compliance checker to assess your specific situation.
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