What is the purpose of greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories?

The purpose of greenhouse gas (GHG) inventories is primarily to account for emissions for mitigation and compliance. GHG inventories serve as a systematic collection and analysis of data on the emissions of greenhouse gases produced by various sources within a defined boundary, such as a city, state, or country. This accounting provides essential information for understanding the sources and amounts of emissions, thus allowing policymakers and regulators to develop strategies aimed at reducing these emissions and mitigating climate change.

Tracking emissions helps governments and organizations assess progress toward their climate goals, comply with international agreements like the Paris Agreement, and inform stakeholders about the status of GHG emissions over time. Accurate GHG inventories are crucial for devising effective emission reduction strategies, setting benchmarks, and engaging in carbon trading or credit systems as part of broader climate action efforts.

In contrast, assessing risks of natural disasters, measuring water quality in ecosystems, and monitoring biodiversity in habitats, while all important aspects of environmental management, do not fall under the primary function of GHG inventories. These activities relate to different environmental concerns and are targeted toward ecological assessments rather than specifically tracking greenhouse gas emissions.