How do I obtain access to the ALU software?
Click on the ‘Open Software” button on the home page and you will have the option to login and/or register if you are not currently registered. Once a login is created, you can download the desktop application or open the online version (Online Version is still under development and will available in 2025).
Is there a charge to download and use ALU software?
No, ALU software is free of charge and is available to the public.
Is ALU designed to work in any country?
Yes, ALU is designed to work in any country and accommodates a wide range of agricultural, forestry and land use practices.
Can ALU be used at subnational scales?
ALU can be applied at subnational scales. Although the software is specifically designed to implement national greenhouse gas inventory methods, the same methods are often applied at subnational scales. However, compilers may want to use a Tier 2 method and develop more local emission factor rates at subnational scales in order to produce accurate results. In fact, developing country-specific emission factors are often recommended at national scales based on the IPCC good practice if the source category is important in terms of the amount of emissions or trend in emissions.
Does ALU support languages other than English?
Currently, ALU software is only available in English.
How will I know if a new version of ALU is available?
All registered users will be notified via email when a new version of ALU is released, along with a few short notes that describe the primary improvements in the software.
Why are there two versions of the ALU Software?
There are two versions of the software. There is a desktop application that can be downloaded on used on computers with PC operating systems. An online version has also been developed that can be accessed through our web portal with data management and calculations done through our web service.
What are the basic computer requirements to install and run ALU?
The ALU program is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP™(Service Pack 3), Vista™, 7.0™, 8.1™ and 10™ operating systems. ALU software works with both 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.
Are there any software requirements to install and run ALU?
ALU software requires Adobe Acrobat Reader® Version 7 or later, in order to view the ALU Help Manual. You may also create reports in ALU, which requires Microsoft® Excel 2003 or later.
Do I need to manually uninstall a previous version of ALU before I attempt to install the latest version of ALU?
Previous versions of ALU usually do not need to be removed before installing a new version. However, a significant software change was made between Version 2 and Version 3, which does require that you manually remove Version 2.0 before installing a later version.
If I’ve created databases using previous versions of ALU, will I be able to access them after I install the latest version of ALU?
Databases are compatible within version 4.5 and 6.0 but are not compatible between version 4.5 and 6.0 due to changes in data requirements and methods between the two sets of IPCC guidelines.
