Global Call to Recognize Renewable Gas Certificates

A coalition of more than 30 global manufacturers and energy providers is calling on the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol to recognize renewable gas certificates and other market-based tools that promote low-carbon gas use. The appeal, coordinated by the Let Green Gas Count campaign, comes ahead of COP30 in Belem, Brazil, where renewable fuels are central to the host country’s agenda.

The GHG Protocol, jointly managed by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), guides the emissions accounting of most Fortune 500 companies. Its current framework, however, does not allow companies to claim credit for certified renewable gas purchases, a gap that signatories say discourages decarbonization in sectors where electrification is not feasible.

“European industry needs GHG accounting standards that are fit for purpose and acknowledge renewable gases’ pivotal role in reducing industrial emissions,” said Andreas Guth, Secretary General, Eurogas.

Signatories include Nestlé, Volvo Trucks, Tata Steel Nederland, Pernod Ricard, Electrolux Group, and Carrefour, all of which rely on energy-intensive processes. They argue that recognizing renewable gas certificates would accelerate emissions reductions and investor confidence.

“Our company strongly believes that biomethane can play a big part in decarbonizing steel and energy-intensive industries. Biomethane not being supported in the GHG Protocol is one of the hurdles,” said Albert Kassies, Director of New Energy, Tata Steel Nederland. 

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), only about 5% of the global potential for sustainable biogas and biomethane is currently used.

“The strong support from leading industries highlights the vital role biogases must play in global decarbonization. Clear and consistent rules are essential to give investors and companies the confidence to act,” said Harmen Dekker, CEO, European Biogas Association.

Industry leaders say that updating the GHG Protocol would help align international standards with the energy transition and accelerate progress toward Net Zero goals.