The Carbon Trust Standard essentially requires an organisation to calculate its carbon footprint (including transport), demonstrate absolute or relative reduction in carbon emissions by more than 2.5 percent per year, and demonstrate good carbon management.

The early action metrics form 100% of the league table assessment criteria during the first year of the carbon reduction commitments scheme, and a significant percentage of the second and third years. In order to acheive the Early Action Metrics, most CRC participants will need to implement Automatic Meter Reading equipment and obtain the Carbon Trust Standard (CTS)*, or equivalent.