News

Environmental Update (November 2009)

Draft specification for carbon neutrality launched

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has announced the development of 'Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 2060', a new standard which aims to ensure a consistent approach to businesses claims of carbon neutrality.

Claims of carbon neutrality can enhance the reputation of an organisation. However, until now, there was no common definition or recognised method of achieving carbon neutral status. The 'PAS 2060' Specification for the demonstration of carbon neutrality aims to provide a common definition and recognised method of achieving carbon neutral status.

The standard is expected to generate accurate and verifiable declarations of carbon neutrality that are not misleading and can enable consumers and purchasers to make more informed choices. By including 'reduction' of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions as an essential element in claiming carbon neutrality, the standard is also expected to encourage increased action on climate change and improvements in carbon reduction management.  

PAS 2060 has been developed in co-operation with a wide range of key stakeholders and builds on existing environmental standards such as ISO 14001. It will lay down the requirements which must be met in seeking to achieve and demonstrate carbon neutrality through the quantification, reduction and offsetting of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from a uniquely identified subject.

To claim compliance with the PAS, the organisation or individual concerned would need to satisfy all of its requirements.

A draft of PAS 2060 is expected to be available for public comment in November 2009 and all interested parties are invited to comment once the draft is available.

For further information on the Mentor Environmental Service, please call us on 0800 634 7006.