Interpret carbon intensity with its denominator and activity profile

Do not compare an intensity value alone. Show its functional unit, system boundary, load and route mix alongside it.

1 October 2024Updated 23 September 2026

Short answer

First inspect the intensity denominator and activities included. For comparison, align transport mode, load definition, system boundary, period and allocation method. Explain differing activity mixes separately; showing absolute emissions alongside intensity helps identify what changed.

Carbon intensity is a ratio tied to its denominator; a different denominator or activity boundary may describe different work. Put the definition and operating profile beside every value in a comparison.

Read the denominator and boundary. State how tonne-kilometres, shipments or another functional unit are calculated. Note whether transport, cooling, terminals and empty running are included.

Compare like activity with like method

Align route type, transport mode, load profile, period, allocation and data source. If activity mix differs, show separate breakdowns instead of direct ranking.

Review intensity and total together. Report absolute emissions and activity volume alongside intensity. If workload or method changed between periods, disclose it and retain source records supporting any improvement claim.

Sources and correction policy for this article

Topics:Sustainability and carbon Measurement and traceability

Cold chain logistics →Isotec guide hub →What the cold chain is →