Using Blockchain, Non-Fungible Tokens, and Smart Contracts to Track and Report Greenhouse Gas Emissions

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Jenkins, J. Gregory; Negangard, Eric M.; Sheldon, Mark D.
• 署名单位: Auburn University System; Auburn University; University System of Ohio; John Carroll University
• 刊物名称: ACCOUNTING REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0001-4826
• DOI: 10.2308/TAR-2023-0222
• 发表日期: 2025
• 页码: 277-305
• 关键词: design science; TECHNOLOGY; audit

摘要

Global markets are moving toward requiring firms to track and report greenhouse gas emissions across their value chain. This includes self-generated emissions (i.e., Scope 1), emissions from power providers (i.e., Scope 2), and emissions from upstream suppliers and downstream parties (i.e., Scope 3). Yet, obtaining reliable emissions data is a complex task that often relies on cumbersome legacy processes and becomes especially challenging with upstream and downstream emissions. Using the Design Science Research Methodology, we propose and prototype (early-stage) a technological solution that uses blockchain, non-fungible tokens, and smart contracts to track and report greenhouse gas emissions across a firm's value chain. The proposed model demonstrates how these tools can create a reliable classification and provenance of emissions that all value chain members can access for reporting purposes. Experts in the field evaluate the proposed model, find it technologically feasible, and call attention to some of its challenges.