The European Union’s first standardized methodology for calculating greenhouse gas emissions from freight and passenger transport entered into force on Thursday, creating a single framework for measuring transport-related emissions across all modes.
The CountEmissionsEU regulation is aligned with the international EN ISO 14083:2023 standard and is intended for companies that voluntarily disclose transport emissions. The framework aims to ensure that reported emissions figures are calculated using consistent and verifiable methods, allowing for greater comparability across the transport sector.
Common Framework for Emissions Measurement
The regulation introduces a door-to-door approach to emissions accounting, covering every stage of a transport journey regardless of the mode used. The methodology is designed to provide businesses with a standardized way to measure and compare emissions performance across logistics and passenger transport operations.
European authorities said the framework will give consumers, companies and public institutions a common basis for evaluating transport options, supporting more informed decisions related to sustainability and carbon reduction.
Addressing Inconsistencies in Carbon Reporting
The introduction of a single EU-wide methodology seeks to address longstanding differences in how transport operators calculate and report greenhouse gas emissions.
Those inconsistencies have historically made it difficult to compare emissions data between transport modes and operators, while also complicating efforts by companies to track and reduce supply chain emissions. Comparable and verifiable emissions data are increasingly viewed as important for corporate climate reporting, sustainability targets and procurement decisions.
Further Implementation Measures Planned
The European Commission is expected to introduce implementing and delegated acts to further define technical requirements under the regulation. Additional guidance and digital tools are also planned to support adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises.
The EU said the framework will continue to be refined over the coming years, with full application of the regulation expected by the end of 2030.
The regulation represents the first time that freight and passenger transport emissions can be assessed using a common methodology across all transport modes within the European Union, providing a unified benchmark for voluntary emissions disclosures.
Source: European Commission
