As a general rule, methods should ensure 95% confidence that actual emissions are within +/- 5% of measured or calculated values, although required levels of accuracy will often depend on the specific magnitudes involved and their materiality. Methods may employ one or more of the following approaches: 1. Emission factor approaches use input data multiplied by specific emission factors that approximate emissions per unit of the input. The factors are derived from research or model simulations and they are typically categorized by variables such as geographic location, local climate data, tree species, equipment standards, etc. 2. Dynamic models estimate processes that cause GHG emissions (or biological carbon sequestration). Model users input specific parameters and the model generates emission or removal estimates. Research studies identify the parameters as important drivers of emissions or removals. Sometimes the parameter may be chosen from data provided by the Reserve or they may need to be measured at the project location. 3. Direct emission measurement uses special instruments that monitor the flow of GHGs from the source into the atmosphere. This involves instrumentation and monitoring of GHG emission sources onsite.
QUANTIFICATION METHODS
