ASTM International

Standard Guide for Basic Assessment and Management of Greenhouse Gases
 N E2725

Annotation

Overview—This guide presents a generalized systematic approach to voluntary assessment and management of the causes and impacts of GHGs. It includes actions, both institutional (legal) and engineering (physical) controls for GHG reductions, impacts, and adaptations. Options for a tiered analysis provide a priority ranking system, to address the "worst first" challenges of a facility, addressing practicality and cost-benefit.

Purpose—The purpose of this guide is to provide a series of options consistent with basic principles and practices for GHG-related action. This guide encourages consistent and comprehensive assessment and management of GHG outcomes from facility and business operations.

The guide also provides some high-level options for the monitoring, tracking and performance to evaluate the effectiveness of the commercial entity's strategy to ensure that a reasonable approach is taken.

This standard ties into the ASTM Committee E50 standards series related to environmental risk assessment and management.

Objectives—The objectives of this guide are to determine the conditions of the facility and or/property with regard to the status of GHGs and actions to be taken to manage and reduce or offset those emissions.

The guide provides a three-tiered decision strategy that focuses on business risk, cost-effective solutions in response to greenhouse gases, and related issues such as the need for energy independence.

Limitations of this Guide—Given the variability of the different types of facilities that may wish to use this guide, and the existence of state and local regulations, it is not possible to address all the relevant standards that might apply to a particular facility. This guide uses generalized language and examples to guide the user. If it is not clear to the user how to apply standards to their specific circumstances, it is recommended that users seek assistance from qualified professionals.