OAKLAND, Calif. — The FT 500 companies are using more than 30 different protocols and methods for reporting their greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new report.

Corporate Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reporting 2008 looks at the many ways that the FT 500 companies are revealing their emissions to stakeholders.

Research by the Ethical Corporation Institute, with information from the Carbon Disclosure Project, shows that companies are using 34 different methods and guidelines for reporting emissions. The report also points out inconsistencies in how companies are calculating and verifying emissions.

The Ethical Corporation Institute includes a detailed look at each way companies are reporting their emissions and reduction targets, pointing out the most commonly used protocols and what role third party auditors play.

The Institute also talked to stakeholders to find out what they want from companies. The research revealed most stakeholders would like to see more consistency in reporting within industry sectors, and want emissions reported in relation to corporate growth and financials.