GLEC v3.2 for ISO 14083 compliance – Framework update

Introduction: Why GLEC and SFC Matter in 2025

As global trade rebounds and sustainability becomes a non-negotiable priority, businesses are increasingly focused on reducing their carbon footprint. The Smart Freight Centre (SFC) and its Global Logistics Emissions Council (GLEC) Framework are at the forefront of this transformation, providing the only globally recognized methodology for calculating and reporting CO₂e emissions across multi-modal supply chains.

In 2025, the GLEC Framework continues to evolve with the release of version 3.2 in October 2025, continuing its alignment with the ISO 14083 standard as well as introducing significant updates including a new module on air pollutant emissions.

This post explains:

• what are SFC and GLEC?
• What are the changes in the framework?
• Why these standards are critical for modern logistics and cold chain operations?

What Does SFC Stand For?

Smart Freight Centre is a global non-profit organisation founded in 2013. Its mission is to make the freight sector more sustainable, efficient, and competitive by reducing carbon emissions, fuel waste, and pollution. SFC works with shippers, carriers, and logistics providers to implement best practices and standardised methodologies, such as the GLEC Framework.

What Is the GLEC Framework?

The GLEC Framework is the world’s first and only standardized methodology for calculating and reporting greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from logistics operations. Developed by SFC in 2016, it aligns with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.

The framework covers all transport modes, including ocean, road, rail, and air freight, ensuring comprehensive emissions tracking.

What’s New in GLEC Framework v3.2 (October 2025)

Version 3.2, published on October 23rd, 2025, represents a minor but important revision primarily focused on updating default values and introducing critical new capabilities. Here are the major updates:

New Module 6: Air Pollutant Emissions Methodology

The most significant addition to v3.2 is the comprehensive Air Pollutant Emissions Methodology module. This groundbreaking addition expands the framework beyond greenhouse gases to include:

Pollutants Covered:

• Carbon Dioxide (CO₂)
• Methane (CH₄)
• Nitrous Oxide (N₂O)
• Particulate Matter (PM₁₀, PM₂.₅)
• Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂)
• Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Non-methane Volatile Organic Compounds (NMVOCs)
• Ammonia (NH₃)
• Black Carbon (BC)
• Heavy Metals

Why This Matters: Air pollution is the largest environmental health risk and a major driver of climate and ecosystem degradation. By integrating air pollutant tracking with GHG inventories, companies can:

• Understand co-benefits of decarbonization strategies on health and communities
• Avoid unintended consequences of emission reduction efforts
• Stay ahead of emerging regulations
• Make better-informed decisions about sustainability investments

Companies like DFDS and Maersk are already reporting air pollutant emissions using scientific methods transparently.

Updated Fuel Emission Factors

• Europe: LNG, CNG, and Electricity updated data
• North America: Ethanol, Biodiesel, HVO, CNG, and Electricity updated following GREET 2024 standards
• China: Electricity factors updated from Ministry of Ecology and Environment, China
• India (Newly Added): Comprehensive India-specific GHG emission values for road, rail, and other transport modes. India includes dedicated emission factors for the first time.

Marine Fuel Emission Factors: LPG, Ammonia, Methanol, Bio-methanol, and Bio-ethanol factors updated following IMO MEPC81 guidelines

Biofuel Blends: Scaling emission factors adjusted to reflect all the above changes

Updated Emission Intensity Values

Logistics Hubs: Updated based on new Fraunhofer IML study providing more accurate facility-level emissions data

Road Transport  

• North America: Updated following SmartWay 2024 data release
• Europe: Updated following changes in fuel emission factors for CNG and LNG
• India: New emission intensity values provided for Indian road freight operations

Sea Transport – Container Vessels: Updated following the latest Clean Cargo Working Group report

Additional Updates

• Enhanced text on latest work for Assurance and Data & Digitalization
• Market-based Measures briefly mentioned for the first time
• Calculation examples in Modules 3-4 adjusted to reflect updated fuel emission factors and intensities

Supporting Materials

Crosswalk Document: A detailed document outlining and explaining all changes made to the GLEC Framework between different versions is now available for download.

Default Values Excel Sheet: SFC members and certified tools can access the comprehensive GLEC Framework default values Excel sheet by submitting a request form.

Implementation Timeline: What You Need to Know

For 2025 Inventory:

• Application of v3.2 default values is encouraged but not mandatory
• Companies can continue using previous versions for 2025 reporting

For 2026 Inventory:

• Implementation of v3.2 default values is expected and recommended
• This gives companies time to update their systems and processes

Looking Ahead:

• HBEFA 5.1 was published on October 21, 2025
• European Road Freight emission intensity values will be updated in 2026 to reflect HBEFA 5.1
• CLEVER’s harmonised emission factor database expected to be completed in 2026/2027
• Integration of CLEVER database into GLEC Framework planned for future versions

Alignment with ISO 14083

The GLEC Framework maintains full integration with the ISO 14083 standard, providing a unified approach to emissions quantification with enhanced data granularity. Companies can now use more detailed modeling and primary data for higher accuracy in CO₂e calculations.

Why Is GLEC Accreditation Important?

GLEC accreditation ensures that your emissions calculations are transparent, consistent, and compliant with global standards. It helps businesses:

• Meet regulatory requirements such as CSRD and EU ETS
• Improve sustainability reporting for stakeholders
• Identify opportunities to reduce emissions and operational costs
• Demonstrate environmental leadership and transparency
• Access better financing and investment opportunities

How to Choose a GLEC-Compliant CO₂e Calculator

When selecting a partner for emissions calculation, ask:

1. Is your methodology GLEC-accredited? You should consider this a requirement for credible reporting.
2. What data sources do you use? Understand whether they rely on primary, default, or modeled data.
3. Which parameters are included? You may wish to confirm that cargo type, vehicle specifications, fuel types, speed, and route factors are covered to meet your exact needs.
4. Can you handle Scope 3 emissions reporting? Ensure comprehensive supply chain coverage.
5. Do you support air pollutant emissions tracking? With the new Module 6, forward-thinking companies should consider this capability.

For a GLEC-accredited solution, explore Searoutes’ Freight Emissions Solutions, which provides vessel-specific CO2e calculations compliant with ISO 14083 and GLEC Framework v3.2.

What’s Next for GLEC in 2026 and Beyond

The evolution of the GLEC Framework is closely tied to global sustainability goals and technological advancements. Here’s what to expect:

Confirmed Updates for 2026:

• HBEFA 5.1 Integration: Following the October 21, 2025 publication of HBEFA 5.1, the GLEC Framework will update European Road Freight emission intensity values to reflect this latest research.
• CLEVER Database Integration: The harmonized emission factor database from CLEVER (expected completion in 2026/2027) will be integrated into future GLEC Framework versions, providing even more comprehensive and standardized emission factors.
• Stricter Regulatory Alignment: As the EU ETS and similar schemes expand globally, the GLEC Framework will likely incorporate more granular requirements for emissions reporting, ensuring seamless compliance for businesses operating in multiple regions.
• Enhanced Air Pollutant Methodology: With Module 6 just introduced, expect refinements and expanded guidance as more companies adopt air pollutant emissions tracking.

Conclusion: Take Action for Sustainable Logistics

The GLEC Framework and SFC accreditation are more than just compliance tools – they are catalysts for transforming global logistics into a sustainable, efficient, and transparent industry. As businesses face increasing pressure from regulators, customers, and investors to reduce their carbon footprint and environmental impact, adopting GLEC-compliant solutions is essential.

Next Steps:

1. Explore Searoutes’ Freight Emissions Reporter: Achieve compliance with GLEC Framework v3.2 and ISO 14083 standards through vessel-specific CO₂e calculations.
2. Download our Clean Transportation White Paper: Stay informed about regulatory changes and their impact on your operations.
3. Book a meeting with Josie Hansen: Discuss how Searoutes can tailor solutions to your sustainability goals and prepare you for the future of logistics.

Download GLEC Framework v3.2: Access the latest framework and Air Pollutant Emissions Methodology report from the Smart Freight Centre website.