Assumptions and methodology
Methodology version: GLEC Framework v3.2
GHG accounting: GHG Protocol Scope 3 Categories 4 & 9
Transport standard alignment: ISO 14083:2023
UK factors: DESNZ/DEFRA 2026 where applicable
Last methodology review: September 2026
Calculation hierarchy: primary/carrier data → equipment-specific data → recognised default factors
Distance methodology: actual route / modelled route / GCD, clearly identified
Distances may differ as many factors can change the direction of travel. We will either use Actual Distance or Great circle distance (GCD – Also known as direct distance or ‘as the crow flies’)
Weather,atmospheric conditions,equipment age and other factors can effect getting an accurate calculation.
Freight is based on averages using GHG Protocol and Methodology as well as DEFRA and other sources. We reveiw the protocol and methodology constantly to make sure everything is current.
- WTW (Well-to-Wheel): This refers to the total lifecycle emissions of a vehicle or fuel, encompassing both the production and consumption stages
- TTW (Tank-to-Wheel): This focuses solely on the emissions produced during the operation of the vehicle (i.e., while the fuel is being burned or the energy is consumed). It excludes upstream emissions from fuel production and distribution
- WTT (Well-to-Tank): This refers to emissions generated from the production, processing, and transportation of the fuel or energy source up to the point where it is stored in the vehicle (the “tank”). It covers the “upstream” emissions part of the fuel lifecycle
Carbon Emissions are estimates and not actual and CocoonFMS® Ltd do not bear any responsibility and liability for the completeness and accuracy of these calculations used.
The C02Emission we report to be absorbed by trees is an estimation and taken from various accredited sources. The assumption is a tree will be fully formed.
- CO2e = Carbon Dioxide equivalent
- NOx = Nitrogen oxides
- PM = Particulate Matter Emissions
Carbon Sequestration: Capturing and storing atmospheric CO₂ through natural processes (trees)
Carbon Avoidance: Preventing new greenhouse gas emissions through renewable energy or efficiency projects.
Carbon Insetting: Reducing or sequestering emissions within a company’s own supply chain or operations.
Carbon Offsetting: Compensating emissions by funding external projects that reduce or remove greenhouse gases.
Common questions
CocoonCarbon® combines shipment information such as origin, destination, mode, weight and available transport information with recognised emissions factors and calculation methodologies.
The methodology used can vary depending on the transport mode and the information available for the shipment.
Our methodology page explains the datasets, assumptions and calculation methods used by the platform.
CocoonCarbon® has been developed around recognised freight and greenhouse-gas accounting methodologies, including the GHG Protocol, the GLEC Framework and principles within ISO 14083.
Details of the methodologies and emission factors currently used by CocoonCarbon® are published on this page.
CocoonCarbon® is not GLEC accredited.
Our calculation methodology is aligned with recognised freight emissions methodologies, including the GLEC Framework, rather than claiming that CocoonCarbon® itself is an accreditation or certification body.
We believe it is important that customers can see the methodology and assumptions behind the calculations rather than simply being given a number.
Yes.
Carbon calculations are estimates based on the shipment information available and the applicable emissions methodology.
Actual emissions can be affected by factors including vehicle or vessel performance, age of equipment,fuel consumption, utilisation, routing, weather and operating conditions.
Where more detailed shipment information is available, CocoonCarbon® can use that information to improve the specificity of the calculation.
Depending on the shipment and mode of transport, CocoonCarbon® can use actual route information or calculated distances.
Where an exact travelled distance isn’t available, an appropriate distance methodology may be using multiple sources.
The method used and assumptions behind our calculations are documented within our methodology.
CocoonCarbon® is designed to help businesses measure and understand freight-related Scope 3 emissions, particularly transportation and distribution within Categories 4 and 9.
The results can support internal carbon management, customer reporting, ESG analysis and tender responses.
Where emissions figures are being used for statutory, regulated, audited or contractual reporting, organisations should confirm their specific reporting requirements and obtain independent verification where required.