Towards net-zero carbon emissions: A systematic review of carbon sustainability reporting based on GHG protocol framework

Abstract

The growing threat of climate change, driven largely by carbon emissions, has made the transition to net-zero carbon emissions a critical global priority. In this systematic literature review conducted between 2021 and 2024 within the oil and gas domain, the investigation focuses on the pathway toward achieving net-zero carbon emissions. The study focuses on the role of carbon sustainability reporting, specifically those aligned with the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) protocol framework, in facilitating this transition. Employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, this research thoroughly examines 34 papers specifically published in the oil and gas sector. This rigorous approach yielded 96 relevant studies encompassing a diverse range of industries. The analysis delves into the adoption, implementation, and impact of carbon sustainability reporting practices that adhere to the GHG Protocol Framework. The findings identified key themes within the collected research, including the effectiveness of carbon sustainability reports in driving organizational practices towards carbon neutrality, the challenges encountered on the path to net-zero carbon emissions, and the broader implications for policy development and future research directions. By synthesizing the findings from this extensive selection of studies, this review offers a comprehensive role of the carbon sustainability reporting within the oil and gas industry based on the GHG protocol framework. Furthermore, it proposes valuable recommendations for advanced initiatives towards a carbon-neutral future.