Institutional Arrangements for the National Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventory System
In response to international reporting requirements, Germany set up a national GHG inventory system in 2007. The system is coordinated by the Federal Environment Agency (UBA) and builds on cooperation with a range of government and non-government entities. A particular feature of the system is the industry cooperation agreements signed between the German government and industry sector associations and individual companies. The agreements ensure regular and efficient flow of data and information to enable the estimation of GHG emissions.
The German GHG inventory system is considered good practice as it is an example of an efficient and comprehensive national GHG reporting system based on extensive collaboration between a large number of different stakeholders. In particular, the cooperation between government and the private sector is exemplary, and resulted in significant benefits, both in terms of high quality, robust data outputs as well as increased trust and transparency.
Robust and timely data: The agreements with industry ensure a continuous flow of current data directly from the relevant source. This helps to produce an accurate national GHG inventory. At the same time, the collection of data at the source allows the industry sector to track and obtain accurate information and data of GHG-relevant activities.
Efficient use of resources and capacities: The direct involvement of industry in the reporting processes reduces the need for additional capacity at the government level. The data is collected by those in the best position to do so, which helps to build and maintain relevant capacities in the respective sectors.
Increased trust between government and the private sector: The collaboration on the GHG inventory has led to constructive and open relationships between government actors and industry. This increased trust arguably has a positive impact also in other areas.
Avoidance of legal procedures: The cooperation agreements with industry avoided the need for more complex and lengthy legislative processes to enable data collection and reporting. The voluntary cooperation agreements are more flexible also in view of potential modifications and amendments.
- Federal Ministries and agencies: Federal Environment Agency (UBA); Federal Statistical Office; Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety (BMUB); Federal Ministry of Economics and Energy; Federal Ministry for Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection; Federal Ministry of the Interior; Federal Ministry of Defence; Federal Ministry of Finance; Federal Ministry of Transport and Urban Development
- State level authorities
- Institutes and research organisations
- Industry associations and companies