Common questions
+ Do I need a credit card to start?
Yes, you need to set up a Stripe subscription. You won't be charged until your first month begins, and you can cancel anytime from your account settings.
+ What happens when I upload invoices?
ForkTrace automatically maps each line item to GHG Protocol emission factors, calculates kg CO₂e, and assigns A–E carbon labels. Results are live in your dashboard within seconds.
+ How are locations counted?
We count the number of restaurant addresses reporting to your ForkTrace account. Each location uploads invoices and receives its own carbon dashboard. If you exceed your plan's location cap, we'll prompt you to upgrade — you won't lose access to existing data.
+ Can I switch plans later?
Absolutely. Upgrade or downgrade anytime from your account settings. Upgrades take effect immediately; downgrades apply at the next billing cycle.
+ What does "Scope 3 Category 1" mean?
Scope 3 Category 1 covers upstream emissions from purchased goods and services — for restaurants, that's the carbon footprint of every ingredient you buy. It's the largest category for most food businesses and the one investors and regulators care about most.
+ Is ForkTrace aligned with GHG Protocol?
Yes. All emission factors are sourced from authoritative databases and mapped to GHG Protocol Scope 3 Category 1 guidance. Reports are audit-ready for disclosure frameworks including CDP, SBTi, and TCFD.