> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://www.bilancarbone-methode.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://www.bilancarbone-methode.com/english/annexes/faq.md).
# FAQ
Source: Freepik
I have a question?
**Your question concerns the Bilan Carbone® method:**
Version 9 of the method is in an experimental phase until 31/12/2024. Tools and training will come into effect on 01/01/2025. In the meantime, we welcome your feedback or questions via this [form](https://fr.surveymonkey.com/r/RetoursUtilisateurs). To find out more about the animation programme for the launch of the method, [click here](https://abc-transitionbascarbone.fr/evolution-de-la-methode-bilan-carbone/).
**Your question concerns a practical application of the method, or carbon accounting in the broad sense:**
We invite you to consult the following 2 resources, which are managed by the ABC:
* The PCG ([Plan Carbone Général](https://www.plancarbonegeneral.com/)) which is an operational guide with practical advice
* OCP ([Open Carbon Practice](https://www.opencarbonpractice.com/rejoindre-la-communaute)) which is a platform for methodological exchanges between carbon practitioners. Users of the PCG resource can report gaps or propose ideas for improvement by joining the OCP community on Slack.
The Plan Carbone Général is an evolving resource that is currently being modified by the ABC; some parts of the resource may therefore undergo significant changes, particularly with the arrival of this new version of the method.
**Your question concerns the ABC's resources and community:**
The association, its membership, its training, its tools or its projects: [here](https://abc-transitionbascarbone.fr/contact-et-hotline/).
## Questions about the new method
What are the major changes between previous versions of the Bilan Carbone® method and the current one?
The major changes between version 8 (2017) and version 9 (2025) [are detailed here.](/english/readme.md) You can also watch the [presentation webinars](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUidG8Tj60g).
Ongoing improvements to the methodological guide are specified in the [change history.](/english/readme/historique-et-suivi-des-modifications.md)
Why 3 maturity levels?
The [Bilan Carbone®](/english/readme.md#les-grandes-evolutions-de-la-methode) has always been adapted to the need (from a first assessment, to steering the decarbonisation of an organisation).
Current challenges require maintaining this flexibility, while ensuring **uniformity and transparency** around the approaches carried out.
These new [maturity levels](/english/1-scoping-the-approach/1.1-definir-son-niveau-de-maturite-bilan-carbone-r.md), defined by specific criteria, make it possible to set the level of ambition of the approach, and to standardise practices:
* An accessible entry level: carrying out an assessment according to one's means (financial, human...) so as not to be blocked by lack of resources
* Adapting the method to the diversity of organisations on the ground (small structure or international activities...)
* Meeting the personalised needs of organisations: adjusting the approach so that it can meet different objectives (regulatory compliance, steering of internal decisions, or mobilisation of stakeholders with transparency...)
* Encouraging action for any organisation, regardless of its maturity level and profile
What is the advantage of the new method for calculating uncertainties?
Estimating uncertainties category by emission category for better action:
* Knowing the precision of the data and emission factors used allows you to have control over the quality of the assessment
* The overall uncertainty is not sufficient for good action: conversely, the new calculation method makes it possible to analyse uncertainties category by emission category in order to:
* Prioritise the most impactful actions on the assessment
* Implement actions to improve data collection
* This notion of uncertainty estimation is crucial for the organisation, which until now lacked the keys to take hold of it. The new, more pedagogical method facilitates understanding of results from rigorous calculations.
How to define objectives consistent with national decarbonisation objectives?
For organisations in France, they are assessed using sectoral frameworks from the SNBC (comparison of percentages of GHG emission reduction objectives), by assimilating the organisation's activity to a single sector (when this is consistent) or by taking the general national average into account. For organisations outside France, the relevant national objectives are to be used.
:link: For more information: consult [section 5.1 of the method](/5-plan-de-transition/5-introduction-au-plan-de-transition.md).
## Application of the method
How to get officially trained in the Bilan Carbone® method
The first essential step for working with the Bilan Carbone®, training allows you to acquire the skills necessary to use the Bilan Carbone® methodology and tools. In the interest of quality, it is a prerequisite for accessing all up-to-date Bilan Carbone® tools.
For people trained in earlier versions of the Bilan Carbone®, a free and compulsory update module on the new version of the method will be available at the beginning of 2025.
:link: For more information: Which tool to use to apply the new method?
You can use:
* The [ABC's tools](/english/training-and-tools-for-applying-the-method/outils-bilan-carbone-r-tableurs-et-logiciel.md): updates are in progress and tools adapted to the new method will be available at the beginning of 2025
* [Tools compliant with the method](/english/training-and-tools-for-applying-the-method/outils-audites-et-conformes.md): monitoring is being carried out to prepare for compliance renewal and for the update to the new version of the method to be done over time
How to determine your maturity level?
You can find in [section 1.1](/english/1-scoping-the-approach/1.1-definir-son-niveau-de-maturite-bilan-carbone-r.md) of the method a quiz helping you to know the maturity level of your organisation. This quiz is based on your previous assessments as well as what you plan to put in place at each step of your next assessment.
Where to find practical implementation advice for this method?
If your question concerns a practical application of the method, or carbon accounting in the broad sense:
We invite you to consult the following 2 resources, which are managed by the ABC:
* The PCG ([Plan Carbone Général](https://www.plancarbonegeneral.com/)) which is an operational guide with practical advice
* OCP ([Open Carbon Practice](https://www.opencarbonpractice.com/rejoindre-la-communaute)) which is a platform for methodological exchanges between carbon practitioners. Users of the PCG resource can report gaps or propose ideas for improvement by joining the OCP community on Slack.
The Plan Carbone Général is an evolving resource that is currently being modified by the ABC; some parts of the resource may therefore undergo significant changes, particularly with the arrival of this new version of the method.
How to find a Bilan Carbone® service provider and consultant
The ABC provides a [resource for drafting a consultation specification](/english/annexes/annexes/annexe-13-ressource-pour-la-redaction-dun-cahier-des-charges-de-consultation.md).
The ABC provides a directory of service providers trained and authorised to support a Bilan Carbone® approach, or its complementary resources (Bilan Carbone® Evaluation, Bilan Carbone® Collage, etc.)
:link: For more information:
## Link between the Bilan Carbone® and other methods
How does the Bilan Carbone® respond to the CSRD?
The Bilan Carbone® responds to a large part of the DRs of the ESRS E1 of the CSRD, relating to climate change. The method fully responds to DRs on carbon accounting, and partially on what follows accounting (risk analysis, strategy definition, etc.).
In all cases, it allows you to largely meet the requirements of this new regulation, if you are subject to it.
:link: For more information: [Webinar on the new method](https://www.youtube.com/live/cUidG8Tj60g?si=l3Vg-Y5fjwrp8o8c) and [section 6.2](/english/6-summary-and-reporting/6.2-compatibilite-de-la-demarche-avec-dautres-referentiels.md)
What coexistence exists on transition plan steps between ACT Step by Step, the regulatory GHG assessment and the Bilan Carbone®?
The Bilan Carbone® has always aimed to be an approach that drives action. It goes beyond emission accounting to guide towards the construction of a transition plan.
Coexistence with ACT Step-by-Step is useful in many respects:
* ACT is an approach dedicated to this step
* Following the Bilan Carbone®, the organisation already has a roadmap that can be re-challenged with an ACT step-by-step approach (an essential step to move from Standard to Advanced level)
The Transition Plan of the regulatory GHG assessment is a requirement, which the Bilan Carbone® meets from the Initial level.
What comparison between Bilan Carbone® and Life Cycle Analysis?
LCAs are analyses that do not focus solely on climate. These can feed into the Bilan Carbone® of an organisation.
The main difference between these two methods lies in the Bilan Carbone®'s orientation towards **driving action**. Indeed, the latter has, since its creation, gone beyond simple emission accounting.
## Miscellaneous
What is the difference between a Bilan Carbone® and a carbon balance? Between a carbon footprint and a climate shadow?
Several names are sometimes used to designate an assessment: GHG assessment, regulatory GHG assessment, carbon footprint, etc. The [Bilan Carbone® is a brand](/english/readme.md) with strict methodological requirements to be met.
The [climate shadow](/english/annexes/bibliographie.md#autres-ressources) is a completely different notion.
The [communication resources](/english/annexes/bibliographie.md#ressources-sur-la-communication) aim to clarify these designations.
Is it possible to join future ABC working groups?
Many projects and discussions involve the ABC community and its partners. Working groups are created on a case-by-case basis through a call for applications to the association's members for the current year. If you wish to raise a topic, do not hesitate to contact the ABC team.
> ⏳\[[WIP](/english/readme.md#structures-des-informations-specifiques)] This FAQ will be updated as questions and feedback regarding this new version of the Bilan Carbone® methodology arise.
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