From Pathfinder Framework to PACT Methodology: A Step Towards Becoming the Global Standard for PCF Calculation

In an effort to enhance clarity and consistency, PACT announces the rebranding of the ‘Pathfinder Framework’ to the ‘PACT Methodology.’ This strategic decision has been made in close consultation with PACT companies involved in various working groups, external partners and key stakeholders to reflect the growing maturity and adoption of product carbon footprint (PCFs) calculation and exchange across sectors. This development represents a critical step in PACT’s journey to become the global standard for calculating (and exchanging) product-level Scope 3 data across value chains.

Why the Change?

The original term, ‘Pathfinder’, was coined during a 2021 WBCSD project and has been frequently interchanged with ‘PACT’, leading to confusion within our ecosystem. By unifying under the term ‘PACT Methodology’, we aim to eliminate the confusion of having two separate words that refer to the same PCF calculation methodology, while at the same time strengthening and increasing our brand awareness.  

Why ‘Methodology’?

We have chosen the term ‘methodology’ because our current guidance goes beyond frameworks, detailing the specific tools, processes, and procedures necessary to ensure consistent PCF calculation across value chains. The methodology is prescriptive, providing a clear ‘how-to’ for calculating product-level Scope 3 data, thus supporting more accurate, granular, and comparable decarbonization efforts across the private sector.

Components of the PACT Methodology

The PACT Methodology is designed to harmonize the calculation of PCFs (PCFs) through a universal PCF calculation methodology and can be accessed here.

Note: PACT also publishes the PACT Technical Specifications for the exchange of standardized PCF data. The PACT Methodology and PACT Technical Specifications together enable organizations to calculate and exchange standardized PCF data at scale.  

Our Aspirations

We strive to set the global benchmark for Scope 3 data management, accelerating decarbonization efforts by ensuring that our methodology is adopted widely and consistently for carbon-informed decision making. This rebranding will enable companies across all sectors to use uniform terminology and methods to calculate PCFs, fostering a clear understanding of our initiative's aims and benefits.

Implementation Timeline

The transition to the PACT Methodology is already underway, and we encourage our partners and the community to adopt it. The launch of the version 3 of what is the PACT Methodology is planned in Q1 2025, marking a firm requirement to use the PACT Methodology terminology.

Your Participation Matters

We invite all stakeholders to join us in this transition and reach out with any questions or concerns. Your collaboration is crucial as we work together to achieve a more sustainable and decarbonized future.  

For further inquiries, please contact us at pact@wbcsd.org