We know that ESG initiatives can be complex—and every detail matters. This page is here to offer clear, concise answers to common questions about our work, our approach, and how ESG strategies can create measurable impact within your organization.
Whether you’re looking to understand specific terms, implementation processes, or how ESG can align with your business goals, you’ll find helpful information below.
If you need further clarification, we’re always available to talk.
- Bloom ESG Carbon Inset Registry & Avoided Emissions Certificates
- General Onboarding and Audit Process for Bloom ESG’s Carbon Inset Registry
- Detailed Audit Process for Avoided Emissions Certificates
- Audit Preparation for Avoided Emissions Certificates
Bloom ESG Carbon Inset Registry & Avoided Emissions Certificates
What is carbon insetting?
Carbon insetting refers to emissions reductions that are achieved within a company’s own value chain, rather than through external offset projects. Insetting focuses on direct investment in sustainable practices—like e-waste recycling and refurbishment—within a corporate supply chain, creating measurable climate benefits that are closely tied to your business operations.
How is insetting different from offsetting?
While offsetting supports projects outside businesses operations (such as tree planting), insetting delivers emissions reductions from activities that are integral to your value chain. This approach strengthens your supply chain and directly supports your Scope 3 emissions reduction targets.
What are avoided emissions and how do they relate to Scope 4?
Avoided emissions (sometimes called Scope 4) are the greenhouse gas emissions that are prevented when a product or service replaces a more carbon-intensive alternative. For example, refurbishing and reusing electronics avoids the emissions that would have resulted from manufacturing new devices2. These avoided emissions are calculated by comparing the impact of your circular solution to a baseline “business as usual” scenario.
What makes Bloom ESG’s carbon inset registry unique?
● Sector-Specific: Bloom’s registry is the world’s first built specifically for the e-waste and IT asset disposition (ITAD) sector, recognizing the unique climate value of circular electronics management.
● ISO-Approved Methodology: We use the first ISO-14064 approved, independently verified methodology for avoided emissions in e-waste, ensuring accuracy and global credibility in reporting and certification.
● Transparency & Traceability: Every certificate is tied to a verified circular action (like device reuse or recycling), tracked from asset processing, through to certificate issuance and retirement – and independently audited for integrity.
● Tradable Certificates: Insets are issued as tradeable environmental certificates, providing new revenue streams for ITADs and recyclers, enabling corporates to directly support emissions reductions in their supply chain.
● Wide Asset Coverage: Our methodology covers over 80 electronic asset types and various circular commodities, offering a comprehensive solution for the industry.
How are avoided emissions calculated?
Avoided emissions are determined by comparing the emissions from your circular action (e.g., recycling or refurbishing) to a baseline scenario where those actions did not occur. The calculation follows global standards such as the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064, and is independently verified for each project. A detailed explanation of the Bloom methodology is available here.
Why do we audit against ISO 14064 and not 14067?
We have been advised on the choice by our auditor, who has verified more than 3,000 offset projects. Their guidance is as follows:
● Bloom applied ISO 14064 to audit the estimated avoided emissions from the e-waste recycling facility, as this standard is specifically designed for assessing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and removals at the project level. The facility qualifies as a GHG mitigation project, where emissions are avoided through activities such as diverting e-waste from landfills and reducing the need for virgin material production. These outcomes are best measured using a project-based accounting approach, as outlined in ISO 14064.
● In contrast, ISO 14067 focuses on quantifying the carbon footprint of individual products over their life cycle using a product-centric LCA methodology. It is not suited for assessing the total avoided emissions of a facility or project-based mitigation activity.
● Therefore, ISO 14064 provides the appropriate and internationally recognized framework for this type of assessment, ensuring transparency, consistency, and credibility in the reporting of avoided emissions from GHG reduction initiatives such as e-waste recycling.
Why should corporates buy inset certificates from Bloom ESG?
● Lower Risk: Insets are less exposed to credibility and reputational risks than offsets, as they are based on real, audited activity within your own value chain.
● Supply Chain Resilience: Supporting insetting strengthens relationships with suppliers and promotes sustainable business practices throughout your network.
● Market Leadership: Purchasing insets demonstrates proactive climate action and sustainability leadership to customers and stakeholders.
How does the registry work for recyclers and refurbishers?
● Eligible ITADs and recyclers can generate ISO-verified avoided emissions certificates for their circular activities.
● Certificates are issued, managed, and traded via Bloom’s dedicated registry platform.
● The inset certification process is independently audited, and certificates can be traded or retired on behalf of corporate clients to support their sustainability claims.
Who can participate in the registry?
The registry is open to ITADs, electronics recyclers, and other circular operators seeking to quantify and monetize their climate-positive work. Early access is available for select launch partners in 2025. Get in touch to learn more.
How can I get started or learn more?
Contact Bloom ESG to discuss eligibility, receive a demonstration, begin the onboarding process or to access the registry
General Onboarding and Audit Process for Bloom ESG’s Carbon Inset Registry
How does the client onboarding process work with Bloom ESG’s carbon inset registry?
The onboarding process is designed to ensure accurate, auditable, and efficient certification of avoided emissions from your e-waste recycling and refurbishment activities. Here’s how it works:
● Platform Account Creation: We’ll create a platform account and you provide asset and recovery data specific to your operations (all guided by us of course).
● Process Mapping & Analysis: Together, we map and analyze your recycling and refurbishing processes, identify and categorize processed assets, and collect energy consumption data.
● Tailored Emissions Factors: We develop emissions factors tailored to your specific operations, ensuring calculations reflect your actual impact.
● Data Onboarding: We upload your operational data, or connect directly to your systems via API, to get quantities of e-waste processed, commodities recovered, and process details.
What are the key milestones in the onboarding journey?
● Kick-off: Project begins with a kick-off meeting to clarify objectives and timelines.
● Process Mapping: Detailed mapping of asset flows and process breakdowns per asset type.
● Data Collection: Collection of energy consumption and operational data.
● Avoided Emissions Calculation: Calculation of avoided emissions for the reporting period (e.g., 2024) using our ISO-verified methodology.
● Project Design Documentation: Preparation of a project design document for external verification.
● Audit Preparation: All documentation and calculations are prepared for external audit.
● Certificate Generation: Once verified, avoided emissions certificates are generated and uploaded to the registry.
● Go Live: Certificates become live and available for trading or retirement.
How long does the onboarding and certification process take?
From project kick-off to the issuance of certified avoided emissions certificates, the process typically takes about 12 weeks for the first verification, depending on data availability and audit scheduling.
How are avoided emissions calculated and verified?
● Calculation: Avoided emissions are calculated based on the quantity and type of e-waste processed, commodities recovered, energy consumption, and process specifics. The methodology is ISO-verified and aligned with UN standards for recovery and recycling of materials from solid waste.
● Verification: All calculations and documentation are prepared for an external, independent audit to ensure accuracy and compliance with recognized standards.
What is the audit process for certificates?
● Preparation: A project design document, monitoring report, data, and calculations are prepared and submitted for audit.
● External Audit: An independent auditor reviews your processes, data, and calculations to ensure they meet ISO and Bloom ESG standards.
● Certification: Upon successful audit, avoided emissions certificates are issued, each representing 1 ton of CO2e avoided.
● Registry Upload: Certificates are issued on the Bloom ESG registry, where they are fully traceable, tradeable, and can be retired on behalf of clients.
What makes Bloom ESG’s audit process robust?
● ISO-verified methodology: All calculations use globally recognized, independently verified standards.
● Full transparency: Every step, from data collection to certificate issuance, is auditable and fully documented.
● Independent verification: External auditors review and certify every project before certificates are issued, ensuring credibility and trust.
What support does Bloom ESG provide during onboarding and audit?
Bloom ESG guides you through every step, from account setup and process mapping to data collection, document preparation and audit preparation. Our team ensures you understand the requirements, produces project documentation, and manages the selected auditor to streamline the process.
Detailed Audit Process for Avoided Emissions Certificates
What is the purpose of the audit for avoided emissions certificates?
The audit independently verifies that the greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions reported from your e-waste recycling and refurbishment activities are real, measurable, and conform to international standards. This ensures that each certificate issued represents a genuine climate benefit and meets the highest standards of credibility.
Who conducts the audit, and what standards are used?
Audits are performed by an ISO approved independent third-party verifier—using the Bloom methodology, ‘Estimated Avoided Emissions from Recycling Activities’. The audit is conducted in accordance with ISO 14064-1 and ISO 14064-3, internationally recognized standards for quantifying and verifying GHG emissions.
What does the audit process involve?
● Verification Planning: The audit begins with a detailed verification plan, including a review of your facility’s recycling and refurbishment processes, data sources, and monitoring systems.
● Evidence Gathering: Auditors collect and review documented information, including process data, energy consumption records, equipment calibration details, and asset flow tracking.
● On-Site Assessment: The audit typically includes on-site or virtual visits to verify data accuracy, observe facility operations, and confirm the integrity of monitoring equipment and procedures.
● Methodology Review: Auditors assess compliance with the Bloom methodology, ensuring that all calculations and assumptions align with approved protocols and that the project boundary, baseline scenario, and emissions factors are appropriate.
● Independent Review: The audit team independently reviews all findings and issues a verification opinion, confirming that the emission reductions are fairly stated and accurately calculated.
What does the audit cover?
The audit covers all aspects of the project, including:
● Compliance with the applied methodology and ISO standards
● Applicability of the methodology to your operations
● Project boundary and baseline scenario definition
● Data collection, monitoring, and calculation methods
● Quantification of GHG emission mitigations and any potential leakage
● Review of supporting documentation and evidence
What is the outcome of the audit?
If the audit is successful, the verifier certifies the total avoided emissions for the monitoring period (e.g., 302,128 tCO2e for 2023 activities in the audited example). This certification allows Bloom ESG to issue avoided emissions certificates that are fully traceable, tradeable, and recognized as credible climate action instruments.
How does the audit ensure transparency and credibility?
● All calculations and data are independently reviewed and cross-referenced with secondary sources where possible.
● The audit process is fully documented, with a clear record of evidence, findings, and any non-conformities identified and addressed.
● Only after passing the audit are certificates issued, ensuring every unit represents a verified climate benefit.
What if non-conformities are found during the audit?
Any non-conformities or discrepancies identified during the audit are documented and must be resolved before certification. This ensures that only accurate and compliant emission reductions are certified and registered.
How often are audits conducted?
Audits are typically performed annually, covering a defined monitoring period (e.g., January 1 to December 31), to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement in data quality and reporting. Audits may also be completed more frequently for larger clients.
What Documents Are Required as Part of the Audit?
To ensure a successful and credible audit, the following categories of documentation must be completed. These requirements are based on ISO 14064 standards and the specific practices outlined in the Bloom Methodology and the audit conducted.
1. Project and Methodology Documentation
● Project Design and Monitoring Report (PDMR):
A comprehensive document outlining the project scope, objectives, boundaries, and monitoring approach.
● Applied Methodology:
The latest version of the Bloom methodology used for estimating avoided emissions.
2. Operational and Activity Data
● Asset and Material Flow Records:
Detailed logs of quantities and types of e-waste and solid waste processed, including sorting, dismantling, shredding, smelting, and refurbishment activities.
● Recovery and Refurbishment Data:
Data on assets/materials recovered, reused, or refurbished, including quantities and types.
● Energy Consumption Records:
Electricity and fuel usage data for all relevant facility operations (e.g., meter readings, utility bills).
3. Baseline and Emissions Calculations
● Baseline Scenario Documentation:
Description and justification of the “business as usual” scenario (what would have happened without the project).
● Emission Factor Sources:
References and calculations for all emission factors used (for assets, materials, electricity, fuels, etc.).
● GHG Calculation Spreadsheets:
Detailed calculations showing how avoided emissions have been quantified.
4. Monitoring and Equipment Records
● Monitoring Plan:
Description of how data is collected, monitored, and quality assured.
● Equipment Calibration Records:
Calibration and maintenance logs for all measurement equipment (e.g., weigh scales, electricity/fuel meters).
5. Supporting and Compliance Documentation
● Permits and Regulatory Compliance:
Copies of relevant environmental permits and evidence of compliance with local regulations.
● Process Descriptions:
Flow diagrams or written descriptions of facility processes and controls.
6. Verification and Audit Trail
● Previous Audit Reports (if applicable):
Reports from any prior verifications.
● Internal Data Quality Checks:
Evidence of internal reviews, corrections, or non-conformity management.
7. Appendices and Additional Evidence
● Appendix Data Tables:
Detailed tables of emissions factors, quantities processed, energy use, and other key parameters (as seen in the appendices of the audit report).
● Photographic or Video Evidence:
(If requested) Visual documentation of facility operations or equipment.
Why is this documentation required?
These documents allow the independent auditor to verify that your reported avoided emissions are real, measurable, and conform to international standards (ISO 14064-1/3 and ISO 14064-3/5). They provide a transparent trail from project activity to certificate issuance.
How will Bloom ESG support you?
Bloom will provide templates, guidance, and a checklist to help you prepare and organize these documents for a smooth audit process.
Audit Preparation for Avoided Emissions Certificates
What is the purpose of audit preparation?
Audit preparation ensures your facility’s recycling and refurbishment activities are fully documented, traceable, and eligible for avoided emissions certification. Proper preparation streamlines the audit, maximizes your recognized climate impact, and supports certification success.
How should documentation be organized for the audit?
● All documentation must be structured by individual facility and by reporting year.
● Material and energy quantities must be measured and supported with verifiable records.
● Traceability from asset intake through recovery, refurbishment, or downstream processing must be clearly demonstrated.
What are the key documentation requirements?
A. Facility Energy Consumption
● Total annual electricity and fuel consumption (by type and unit)
● Utility bills for the entire reporting year
● Start and end-of-year meter readings and meter specifications
● Calibration certificates for all meters
B. Facility Operations & Machinery
● Detailed list of all processes (e.g., dismantling, shredding, refurbishing)
● For each process: machine used, specification sheet, operating hours, maintenance/calibration logs
C. Inbound Material Inventory
● List and classification of all assets/commodities received
● Total quantity received by type/weight per year
● Material flow charts for each major asset category
● ERP records, weighbridge entries, or delivery documents
● Calibration certificates for weighing scales
D. Outbound Materials (Recovered Materials & Components)
● List of all materials and components recovered
● Quantity recovered (by weight) per year
● ERP exports or transaction logs confirming volumes and destinations
● Sales contracts, purchase orders, or shipping documents
● Lab test results or quality certificates (if available)
E. Refurbished Equipment
● List and weight of all refurbished devices sold into the secondary market
● QA/testing records proving functionality
● Outbound sales receipts, invoices, or ERP confirmations
F. Downstream Processing (If Applicable)
● List of components/materials sent off-site for further processing
● For each: type of downstream facility, quantity sent, dispatch documentation
● If available: energy/emissions data from downstream partners, recovery efficiency details
G. Emissions Factors Sources
● Standard emissions factors will be supplied unless you use facility-specific values
● For custom factors: full citation, publication date, original data, and evidence of public verifiability
H. Double Counting Protection
● Written agreements proving exclusive rights to claim avoided emissions (from upstream collectors and downstream processors)
● Contracts or letters clearly stating your organization’s claim rights
What is the audit preparation process with Bloom ESG?
1. Data Submission: You collect and submit all required documentation, organized by facility and reporting year.
2. Review & Calculation: Bloom ESG reviews your data, performs avoided emissions calculations, and compiles audit-ready documentation.
3. Audit Coordination: Bloom ESG coordinates with the third-party validator and supports you through the certification process.
4. Clarification Support: If you’re unsure about eligibility or documentation, reach out to Bloom ESG early for guidance.
Why is detailed documentation important?
● Demonstrates traceability and eligibility of all materials and processes.
● Ensures emissions calculations are accurate and verifiable.
● Supports audit integrity and market credibility for your certificates.
What if I have questions or am missing documentation?
We will work with you along the process, and guide what to do if documents are missing. We only submit to audit if we are confident we have sufficient information.