Carbon accounting, also known as greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, is the process of measuring and tracking greenhouse gas emissions associated with human activities. Just as financial accounting tracks income and expenditures, carbon accounting records the quantity of emissions—typically expressed in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e)—to help organizations, governments, and individuals understand their climate impact.

Carbon accounting provides the foundation for effective climate action. It enables stakeholders to set emission reduction targets, monitor progress, and align with sustainability goals. As the world intensifies efforts to combat climate change, carbon accounting has become an essential tool in the transition to a low-carbon economy.