PAS 2060
Internationally recognised standard for carbon neutralityWhat is PAS 2060?
PAS 2060 is an internationally recognised BSI standard for demonstrating carbon neutrality. Verification to this standard enables businesses to substantiate any claims of carbon neutrality made about their operations, products or services. It provides clear guidelines for quantifying, reducing and offsetting greenhouse gas emissions to achieve carbon neutrality.
Who is it for?
Organisations of any size in any sector wishing to demonstrate the carbon neutrality of their whole organisation, or of specific products, services, activities, events, projects or buildings.
What emissions does PAS 2060 cover?
To achieve carbon neutrality, PAS 2060 requires organisations to reduce or offset Scope 1 emissions (direct emissions from fuel consumption and vehicle fleets) and Scope 2 emissions (energy-related indirect emissions, including emissions from purchased electricity, heating and cooling). The scheme also encourages participants to address Scope 3 (indirect) supply chain emissions, but this is not mandatory.
What is the PAS 2060 process?
The PAS 2060 standard sets out a four-stage process for achieving carbon neutrality:
- Measure – calculate the carbon footprint of your organisation, or of the specific product, service or activity in question. The carbon footprint must be calculated using internationally recognised methodologies, such as ISO 14064-1 or the GHG Corporate Protocol.
- Reduce – develop a carbon-reduction plan, including public commitments to achieving carbon neutrality. The plan must include timescales, targeted reductions and the measures required to reduce carbon emissions.
- Offset – any residual emissions that cannot be eliminated through carbon-reduction measures must be offset through accredited schemes. PAS 2060 requires that the total amount of residual carbon emissions be offset by high-quality certified carbon credits.
- Document and validate – participants must declare that the PAS 2060 standards have been met, supported by a Qualifying Explanatory Statement (QES).
How is the scheme monitored and validated?
Organisations can self-validate their compliance with PAS 2060, or seek validation by independent third parties.
The benefits of PAS 2060
- Provides a clear pathway to quantify and reduce carbon emissions, backed by an annual review process.
- By permitting offsetting, it supports climate finance projects that add social and environmental value.
- Boosts profitability through improved operational efficiencies and long-term cost savings.
- Engages and motivates staff and stakeholders to reduce costs through operational and behavioural changes.
Other Net Zero Accreditations
There are a number of other internationally recognised standards that organisations can follow to help effectively measure, monitor and reduce carbon emissions.
Read more about these schemes here on the right.