Definition
The estimated amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that would occur under a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario, without any climate mitigation measures. Baseline emissions serve as a reference point against which emission reduction efforts—such as policies, projects, or technological interventions—are measured.
Why It Matters
- Provides a critical benchmark for setting emission reduction targets across government policies, corporate strategies, and international agreements.
- Essential for carbon markets, where emission reductions are quantified by comparing actual emissions to the baseline scenario.
- Supports regulatory frameworks, such as cap-and-trade systems, carbon taxes, and corporate sustainability reporting.
- Helps businesses develop credible decarbonization roadmaps, ensuring transparency in emission reduction claims.
Types of Baseline Emissions
- Historical Baseline: Based on past emissions levels (e.g., using 1990 emissions as a reference year), commonly used in international climate agreements.
- Projected Baseline (Business-as-Usual, BAU): Estimates future emissions growth if no climate policies are implemented, often used in developing economies.
- Regulatory Baseline: Determined by government policies or industry standards, ensuring compliance with emissions reduction commitments.
Further Reading
