What is the Data & Reporting Pathway?

To achieve decarbonisation, retailers need to fully understand, measure and report on the sources of greenhouse gas emissions across their value chain.

Measuring and reporting is essential for setting public decarbonisation commitments and establishing business transition plans, and to embed into corporate decision-making that prioritises and targets major emissions hotspots.

However, the diversity and complexity of retail supply chains poses issues in obtaining timely and transparent emissions data from suppliers. Proactive engagement with suppliers to understand, measure and take action on emissions hotspots is essential for decarbonising supply chains.

One of the most effective tools for embedding carbon-based decision-making is the introduction of an internal price on carbon. Alternatively, when viable efforts to decarbonise have been exhausted, there will likely be residual emissions which, to achieve net zero, will require carbon removals or other offsets.

In order to understand the nature and scale of carbon reductions required, it is vital that retailers are first able to measure and report on greenhouse gas emissions across their value chain.

Carbon Trust

Data & Reporting Pathway Guidance

Read the Data & Reporting pathway guidance for context, insights, case studies, key sector initiatives, actions for the retail industry, and priorities for government and BRC support.

Data & Reporting Pathway Milestones Summary

2025

  • Retailer greenhouse gas measurement and public reporting.
  • Top suppliers committed to net zero and/or science based targets.
  • Tier 1 manufacturing greenhouse gas data provided by top suppliers.
  • Internal cost of carbon adopted.

2030

  • Product greenhouse gas data provided by top suppliers.
  • Increase in the 'cost per tonne' of internal carbon price.

Data & Reporting Pathway Actions Summary

For Retailers

Short term priorities

  • Undertake a comprehensive carbon footprint of the retail value chain.
  • Set ambitious targets for decarbonisation.
  • Work with suppliers.
  • Actively participate in sectoral and other external initiatives.

Longer term transformations

  • Adopt an internal carbon price.
  • Consider carbon offsetting and removals.

For Government

  • Develop consistent carbon accounting and greenhouse gas pricing frameworks.
  • Provide clear policy direction and support for carbon removals.
  • Apply international pressure for climate action.

For BRC

  • Embed the Climate Action Roadmap within the industry.
  • Coordinate greenhouse gas data programmes for retailers.
  • Define standards for the industry’s approach to offsetting.

Contact our programme manager

  • Tracey Banks

    Climate Action Programme Manager | BRC

    Tracey leads our work under the Climate Action Roadmap, coordinates signatories’ work under each pathway and engagement with the key partners. 

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