Carbon Trust launches emission certification

LONDON (Reuters) - Carbon Trust launched a scheme to recognise carbon emission reductions on Tuesday, saying consumers and businesses both benefit from clear information on steps taken to tackle climate change.

The government-funded body has initially awarded the badge to twelve organisations, including a number of government departments as well as Thames Water, hardware firm B&Q and supermarket chain Wm Morrisons.

Applicants were tested on whether they accurately measured past and current emissions and reduced them over three years.

They will also need to prove "they have got the management infrastructure embedded within the organisation to show they will continue on that trajectory," spokesman Henry Garthwaite said.

He said the Trust expects to sign up hundreds of organisations in the next 12 to 18 months.

The Carbon Trust said its scheme will counter growing consumer mistrust of organisations' green claims by providing a flagship measurement.

"The aim is to standardise an organisation's success in reducing its (carbon) footprint," Garthwaite said.

Information packs and application forms can be accessed at: www.carbontruststandard.com

(Reporting by Alastair Sharp)