Open Group Releases Open Footprint Standard 1.0 for Multi-Scope Emissions Data

The Open Group announced the publication of the Open Footprint Standard, Edition 1.0, the first open emissions data model to address Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions in a unified framework. The standard is designed to reduce manual data management, improve supply chain interoperability and support reporting under multiple regulatory regimes including CSRD, California SB 253 and ISSB.

The Open Footprint Standard provides standardised emissions data definitions and relationships, enabling organisations to collect and share data across supply chains without the fragmented spreadsheet processes common today. It supports reporting against multiple GHG regulatory frameworks simultaneously and aligns with WBCSD PACT V3 Product Carbon Footprints, as well as GHG Protocol and ISO standards. The standard is published in two parts: general data model requirements and a data element dictionary, with JSON schema files also made available to ease database implementation.

For industrial companies operating across multiple geographies, including those in India with supply chains requiring value chain emissions disclosure under BRSR or for global clients, the Open Footprint Standard offers a vendor-neutral foundation for building interoperable carbon data infrastructure. The standard was developed by the Open Footprint Forum, part of the 900-member Open Group consortium spanning technology vendors, integrators, enterprises and academic institutions.

Co-chairs of the Open Footprint Forum noted that the standard addresses both regulatory traceability demands and the emergence of AI-ready carbon management architectures. The standard enables organisations to shift from manual data handling to structured data models that support both compliance reporting and analytical applications. The Open Group's President and CEO Steve Nunn said the standard removes friction and lowers cost, helping organisations identify emissions reduction opportunities alongside meeting disclosure obligations.

Key figure — First open emissions data model covering all three GHG scopes