ISO 14064 Carbon Management for Data Centres
Carbon regulations are no longer optional — they're operational. For data centres, ISO 14064 is the gold standard for proving you're in control of your emissions, your compliance, and your credibility.
ISO 14064 is the international standard for quantifying, monitoring, and verifying greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. For data centres—large consumers of electricity and increasingly under scrutiny from regulators, investors, and customers—it provides a rigorous and globally recognised framework for understanding and managing carbon impact.
Hyperscale clients, real estate investors, and regulators are now demanding accurate, verifiable carbon data from operators — often down to the rack.
Why ISO 14064 Matters for Data Centres
This standard enables data centre operators to:
Track and report emissions across Scope 1 (direct), Scope 2 (indirect energy), and where possible Scope 3 (value chain)
Demonstrate transparency and accountability to external stakeholders
Identify high-emission sources and prioritise efficiency upgrades
Strengthen eligibility for green financing, ESG-linked loans, and carbon-conscious procurement
Lay the groundwork for long-term decarbonisation goals
ISO 14064 isn't just about compliance—it helps data centres make smarter sustainability decisions, prove impact, and stay ahead of regulatory expectations.
ISO 14064 Standard Overview
ISO 14064-1 – Organisational GHG Quantification
Outlines principles and requirements for reporting GHG emissions and removals at the organisation level. Applicable to all emission scopes (1, 2, and 3).
ISO 14064-2 – Project-Level Emission Reductions
Focuses on GHG reduction or removal enhancement projects (e.g., energy efficiency or renewable energy initiatives), providing guidance on baselines, monitoring, and reporting.
ISO 14064-3 – Verification and Validation
Covers processes for independent verification or validation of GHG assertions made under parts 1 and 2. Supports audit readiness, credibility, and assurance.
Key Emissions Categories in Data Centres
Scope 1 – Direct Emissions
- • Generator fuel combustion
- • Refrigerant leakage from cooling systems
- • On-site fuel use and company vehicles
Scope 2 – Indirect Energy Emissions
- • Purchased electricity (for IT equipment, cooling, and lighting)
- • Purchased steam, heating, or cooling
Scope 3 – Other Indirect Emissions
- • Employee commuting
- • Purchased goods and services
- • Waste disposal
- • Upstream/downstream distribution
Key Carbon Performance Metrics
Total GHG Emissions
Reported in tonnes of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) across all relevant scopes
Carbon Intensity
Measured per rack, per MW IT load, or per square metre of facility
Emission Reductions
Linked to operational or capital projects that result in verified GHG reductions
Verification Readiness
Ensures that all data, methodologies, and documentation are structured for external assurance
The Impact of Good ISO 14064 Carbon Management for Data Centres
Regulatory Compliance
Aligns with CSRD, SECR, EED and other emerging carbon disclosure regulations.
Credible ESG Reporting
Supports investor confidence with verified carbon metrics.
Operational Transparency
Reveals high-impact emissions sources and helps prioritise improvements.
Efficiency & Cost Savings
Enables targeted upgrades that reduce energy use and carbon footprint simultaneously.
Competitive Advantage
Strengthens position in ESG-conscious markets and procurement processes.
Access to Finance
Meets key requirements for green loans, sustainability-linked debt, and grants.
Internal Governance
Creates a structured, organisation-wide approach to carbon accountability.
Supply Chain Readiness
Prepares operators to engage meaningfully on Scope 3 disclosures.
ISO 14064 provides a credible, structured path to meaningful decarbonisation.
For data centres seeking to lead in transparency, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, it is a cornerstone standard for long-term success.