The CarbonCloud agricultural computer model is primarily based on the 2006 IPCC guidelines for national greenhouse gas inventory as well as the best currently available descriptions of agricultural processes.
Each calculation includes more than 45 pieces of input data from high quality sources, a number that can be expected to grow as additional parameters are being taken into account. Examples for mechanisms that are currently included (but are not applicable to all crops and countries) are nitrogen processes in agricultural soils, machinery use, and many more.
The data for ingredients available on the CarbonCloud platform mainly derives from three origins:
1. Statistics and data from national and international agencies
Our data is retrieved from various high quality sources of which many are publicly available. For example, from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, or the National Inventory Submissions to the UNFCCC.
2. Relevant scientific literature
If processed ingredients are modelled, we utilize extensive scientific literature which our science team reviews and adapts accordingly.
3. Experience
Working with several big players in the food industry has given us significant experience and valuable insights into reality of food production and Lifecycle assessments.
Quality control
The climate footprints of our ingredients are constantly reassessed and updated by our science team as yields vary and new scientific knowledge on chemical and biological processes arises. Due to the automation of our climate calculations, the footprints can be updated easily as soon as better data is available.