Introduction

In the global race towards net-zero emissions and heightened corporate environmental accountability, precise carbon accounting and rigorous emissions verification audits have become indispensable pillars for organizations committed to sustainability. Beyond mere compliance, the ability to accurately measure, report, and assure greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions provides critical insights for strategic decarbonization, risk management, and bolstering investor and stakeholder confidence. This essential training course focuses on Carbon Accounting and Emissions Verification Audit, equipping professionals with the specialized knowledge and practical methodologies to navigate complex reporting standards, implement robust data collection systems, and conduct independent verification engagements that uphold the integrity and credibility of carbon footprint disclosures.

This intensive training course delves into the foundational principles of GHG accounting, including comprehensive coverage of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, in accordance with internationally recognized frameworks like the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064. Participants will gain hands-on experience in developing a complete carbon inventory, identifying emission hotspots, and applying systematic approaches to emissions quantification. Crucially, the course emphasizes the auditing and verification aspect, providing participants with the skills to critically assess GHG statements, identify potential misstatements, and provide the assurance needed for both regulatory compliance and voluntary reporting. By the end of this training course, you will possess the expertise to strategically contribute to your organization's sustainability journey, ensuring transparent and verifiable emissions data that underpins genuine climate action.

Target Audience

• Sustainability Managers & Professionals
• Environmental Auditors
• Internal & External Auditors
• ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) Specialists
• Finance Professionals involved in reporting
• Risk Management Professionals
• Compliance Officers
• Energy Managers

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamental concepts of carbon accounting and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
• Learn about global climate change initiatives and the importance of emissions reduction.
• Master the principles and methodologies of the GHG Protocol (Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions).
• Develop skills in quantifying and calculating organizational carbon footprints.
• Understand the international standard ISO 14064 for GHG accounting and verification.
• Learn about different types of emissions verification audits (e.g., limited, reasonable assurance).
• Explore best practices for designing and implementing an emissions data collection system.
• Master techniques for performing emissions data verification and ensuring data quality.
• Understand the process of preparing a comprehensive GHG inventory report.
• Learn about strategies for identifying and mitigating emissions reduction opportunities.
• Apply practical carbon accounting and emissions verification audit strategies to real-world scenarios.

Duration

5 Days

Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Carbon Accounting & Climate Change

• Defining carbon accounting and its role in climate action.
• Exploring the science of greenhouse gases (GHGs) and their impact.
• Understanding global climate agreements and national commitments for emissions reduction.
• Overview of the business drivers for carbon accounting (e.g., regulation, investor pressure, reputation).
• The concept of a carbon footprint and its significance.

Module 2: GHG Protocol Standards & Scopes

• Learning the fundamental principles of the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard.
• Understanding Scope 1 emissions: direct emissions from owned or controlled sources.
• Delving into Scope 2 emissions: indirect emissions from purchased energy.
• Comprehensive coverage of Scope 3 emissions: all other indirect emissions in the value chain.
• Defining organizational and operational boundaries for GHG inventory.

Module 3: Emissions Quantification & Data Collection

• Mastering methodologies for quantifying GHG emissions across all scopes.
• Techniques for collecting reliable emissions data from various sources.
• Understanding emission factors and their application in calculations.
• Addressing data gaps and uncertainties in emissions measurement.
• Tools and software for carbon accounting and data management.

Module 4: Introduction to Emissions Verification & ISO 14064

• Exploring the purpose and benefits of emissions verification audits.
• Understanding the ISO 14064 series: part 1 (quantification), part 2 (projects), and part 3 (verification).
• Learning the principles of GHG verification (e.g., impartiality, evidence-based approach).
• Differentiating between validation and verification in the context of GHG statements.
• The importance of credibility and transparency in emissions reporting.

Module 5: Planning & Executing Emissions Verification Audits

• Strategies for planning a GHG emissions verification audit.
• Developing a risk-based approach to identify material emission sources.
• Techniques for collecting audit evidence (e.g., documentary review, interviews, site visits).
• Performing substantive testing on emissions data and calculations.
• Addressing potential misstatements and non-conformities in the GHG inventory.

Module 6: Reporting & Assuring GHG Statements

• Understanding the requirements for preparing a comprehensive GHG inventory report.
• Learning about different types of emissions verification statements (limited vs. reasonable assurance).
• Communicating audit findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• The role of external assurance providers in enhancing GHG data credibility.
• Best practices for public disclosure of carbon performance.

Module 7: Emissions Reduction & Future Trends

• Strategies for identifying and evaluating emissions reduction opportunities.
• Understanding target setting methodologies (e.g., Science-Based Targets).
• Exploring carbon offsetting and carbon markets.
• Emerging trends in carbon accounting and emissions verification (e.g., digitalization, blockchain).
• The evolving role of the auditor in a net-zero economy.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org  Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.