LSRS Core Concepts: Final Insights for Retail Leaders

Sustainability reporting is evolving towards greater transparency, consistency and accountability, with increasing emphasis on decisions that support credible climate action. For retailers, the GHG Protocol Land Sector and Removals (LSRS) guidance introduces a more rigorous and consistent approach to accounting for land-based emissions and carbon removals.

Developed in partnership with One Carbon World, this final paper in the LSRS Core Concepts series brings together the key principles and implications for the retail sector. It is designed to support leaders in understanding how evolving carbon accounting expectations may impact both reporting and operational strategy.

What this paper covers

This report sets out the core concepts underpinning the LSRS and explains why they matter for retail businesses, including:

• The distinction between emissions reductions and carbon removals, and how each should be treated within reporting frameworks.
• The role of land sector accounting and its importance for improving transparency, completeness, and credibility across value chains.
• Key challenges and considerations for businesses with exposure to agricultural and land-based supply chains.
• The practical implications for reporting, target setting and claims.

Why it matters for retailers

Retailers are increasingly expected to demonstrate transparency over the full emissions impact of their operations and supply chains. As guidance evolves, organisations will need to ensure that their reporting is aligned with emerging standards and reflects a robust account of their land-related emissions.

The LSRS framework represents a significant step towards greater consistency in this area, helping businesses to:

• Strengthen the credibility of sustainability disclosures
• Improve comparability across organisations and sectors
• Support more informed decision-making on carbon reduction and removal strategies

About this series

This paper forms part of a broader LSRS Core Concepts series developed by the British Retail Consortium and One Carbon World, exploring the key elements of the emerging standard and what it means for the retail industry.