What is a Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint refers to the amount of greenhouse gases (most of which are carbon dioxide) released into the atmosphere by an individual, organisation, or other entity. These emissions result from activities that burn fossil fuels, such as food, transportation, and energy. They are then calculated with a carbon footprint calculator using the formula of company activity and consumption data multiplied by their specific emissions factor. Results are generally reported in tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions (CO2-equivalent).

What are the causes of carbon footprint?

The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol has an organised framework for monitoring and identifying GHGs from different sources. Established in response to the Kyoto Protocol, it classifies emissions into three scopes to help organisations better track and reduce their environmental impact.

• Scope 1: Direct emissions come from sources owned or controlled by the organisation, like facilities and vehicles. These are emissions that the organisation can most directly manage.
• Scope 2: Indirect emissions from the energy an organisation buys, mainly electricity, heating, and cooling. These emissions result from energy production outside the organisation but are directly linked to its consumption.
• Scope 3: Indirect emissions from all other supply chain activities, such as waste disposal, employee travel, and the use of products sold. These emissions are outside direct control but connected to the organisation’s operations.

How to Reduce Carbon Footprint

Companies can mix operational improvements with smart investments in cleaner technology to reduce their carbon footprint. They can make real progress toward sustainability by changing internal processes and using tools to lower greenhouse gas emissions. These steps can address current emissions and support long-term environmental responsibility.

• Assess Your Emissions: Start by calculating all emissions in your operations to identify the highest emissions. Knowing this baseline will help you set effective reduction goals.
• Set Emission Goals: Define short- and long-term targets to reduce emissions and create a timeline to reach net zero by 2050. Use these goals as checkpoints to track progress.
• Invest in Renewable Energy: Shift to renewable sources like solar or wind to reduce fossil fuel use and emissions. This investment helps address Scope 2 emissions significantly.
• Adopt Efficient Practices: Use energy-efficient technology, cut waste, and reduce emissions in your supply chain. These steps target both direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 3) emissions.
• Use Carbon Capture and Offsets: Apply carbon capture and storage (CCUS) to trap emissions and buy carbon credits to cover any remaining emissions. This helps balance emissions that are hard to eliminate.
• Report Progress Regularly: Share emissions data and progress reports with stakeholders to keep efforts transparent. This ensures accountability and aligns everyone with your sustainability goals.