2.1.4 Future Uses of GHG Emissions Data

2.1 ISSUES TO BE RESOLVED PRIOR TO COMPILING THE INVENTORY
2.1.1 Boundaries
2.1.2 Data Sources
2.1.3 Level of Data Disaggregation
2.1.4 Future Uses of GHG Emissions Data
2.1.5 Uncertainty in GHG Emission Estimates
2.2 INVENTORY TEMPLATE
2.2.1 Six Steps to Completing the Template

Data collection and emissions calculations can vary a great deal in terms of precision, degree of uncertainty, and verifiability. The degree of rigour required when determining GHG emissions may vary depending on the intended end use of the data. For example, if the company intends to use emissions data as the basis for creating emission reduction credits, the data will need to meet specific data quality requirements; if the data are going to be used solely for internal management purposes, then the need for rigour may be less stringent.

Data quality is an important issue, since information or deduction is only as good as the data it is based on. A wide range of factors can impact on data quality, including the use of different estimation methods, the selection of a mathematical model, and inadequate data for engineering estimates or mass balance calculations.

To enhance the credibility of data reported by the mining sector, MAC encourages its members to apply the following basic principles when determining GHG emissions:

A. Use the most accurate, precise and reliable process and emission data available for the source, process or process equipment.

Wherever possible, GHG emissions data should be substantiated with raw data in the form of direct measurement records or procurement or financial records. When calculating GHG emissions, be sure to use calculation methodologies and emission factors that are appropriate to the source, process, or process equipment in question.

B. Emissions data should be representative of the full scope of operations at the facility or facilities included in the inventory.

Emissions data should include emissions associated with any abnormal operations that may result in significant GHG emissions. For example, the inventory should include emissions associated with such events as accidental releases (such as HCFC leaks from equipment) and activities associated with mine closure and reclamation.

C. GHG emissions data should be verifiable.

Verifiable means that documentation, procedures and records are available to demonstrate how your company determined its GHG emissions. Calculation methodologies should be acceptable, transparent and replicable. Be sure to keep records of the:

• Raw data (source data);
• Methodology used (including all determinations and calculations);
• Emissions factors used;
• Any assumptions that were made; and
• Any analytical results that were used in the determination of emissions.

Your company should establish record keeping procedures (including retention times) for all records related to the GHG emissions inventory. Until final rules have been established for baseline protection and the creation of emission reduction credits, you should retain all records related to GHG emissions, from the base year to the present.