When Penske first engaged Trinity to perform a GHG inventory used to compile their annual CDP report, the focus was on calculating and reporting Scope 1 emissions, which are direct emissions that occur from sources controlled or owned by an organization (e.g., company vehicles and facilities), and Scope 2 emissions, which are indirect emissions from purchased or acquired electricity, steam, heat, and cooling. As the partnership evolved, Trinity also began inventorying Scope 3 emissions, which are indirect emissions associated with the company’s value chain (e.g., employees’ commutes, business travel, and waste disposal). The GHG inventory quantifies carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), nitrous oxide (N₂O), and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) and perfluorocarbons (PFCs) used as refrigerants.

For each annual report, Trinity evaluates each source category and quantifies the emissions associated with it, ensuring that the most current emissions factors are used. Trinity documents the methodology as well as all of the data collected, where it was collected from, and any assumptions the team makes due to missing information. The Penske Logistics emissions inventory is then verified by a third party before being submitted to the CDP, which scores Penske on its performance. Trinity also adjusts the base year calculations when necessary to reflect any material changes to Penske’s operations, enabling the company to accurately compare emissions year over year.