The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the GHG Protocol have launched their first joint working group (JWG) to develop a new product-level greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting standard, following their strategic partnership announced in September to create unified global standards for emissions measurement.
The standard will be produced under the joint governance of ISO and the GHG Protocol, drawing on the expertise of both organisations. ISO’s existing Working Group 8, under Technical Committee 207/Subcommittee 7, will be expanded into the new JWG, operating under agreed Terms of Reference to ensure wide participation and technical rigour across the GHG accounting ecosystem.
Building on ISO 14067 and the GHG Protocol’s Product Life Cycle Accounting and Reporting Standard, the forthcoming framework will maintain alignment with current methodologies while pushing towards a harmonised global approach. It aims to provide a consistent, practical foundation for corporates, investors, and regulators seeking reliable emissions data across value chains.
The initiative responds to mounting demand for granular, product-level emissions data to underpin credible decarbonisation strategies and support policy mechanisms such as the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
“This joint product-level standard reflects the deepening of our collaboration with GHG Protocol and our shared commitment to global consistency in GHG accounting,” said Sergio Mujica, Secretary General of ISO. “As expectations for accurate product-level emissions data rise, organisations need clear, credible methodologies they can trust and apply. By combining the strengths of both systems, we aim to deliver a standard that supports actionable climate strategies and strengthens market confidence.”
Geraldine Matchett, Chair of the GHG Protocol Steering Committee, added: “This announcement marks another step toward global convergence in greenhouse gas accounting under our partnership with ISO. Our shared goal is to ensure that all systems – from traditional approaches to emerging digital infrastructures – can connect to a common methodological foundation.”
The GHG Protocol is now inviting technical experts and practitioners in product-level GHG accounting, life cycle assessment, and value chain emissions to join the JWG. Experts working on new frameworks for exchanging product-related emissions data are particularly encouraged to apply, contributing to a standard designed to be both robust and future-ready.
“Developing a globally relevant product-level GHG standard is a collective effort – we invite experts from across disciplines, sectors, and regions to be part of this,” said Alexander Bassen, Chair of the GHG Protocol’s Independent Standards Board. “Together, we can build a standard that reflects the complexity of real-world systems and supports effective climate action.”
Expressions of Interest can be submitted through the GHG Protocol’s online form by 30 November 2025, with early applications encouraged. Selected participants will help shape the Terms of Reference and composition of the new Joint Working Group as it begins its work toward a unified global product-level GHG accounting standard.
