How do you calculate your SME's carbon emissions? A complete step-by-step plan
In a world that increasingly emphasizes sustainability, it is important for SMBs to be aware of their impact on the environment. Measuring your carbon emissions is not only a step toward greener operations, but it also helps save costs and prepare for future regulations, such as the CSRD and CSDDD. Don't know where to start? This article offers a roadmap for calculating carbon emissions, specifically aimed at SMEs.
The importance of CO2 calculations for businesses
Climate change is a crisis, and companies play a key role in addressing it. With the Paris Climate Agreement in mind, which stipulates that CO2 emissions must be drastically reduced by 2030, it is essential for companies to know and reduce their own emissions. This not only contributes to the environment, but also strengthens your corporate image and provides long-term cost savings. In addition, partners in your supply chain are likely to start asking this of you under the CSRD and CSDDD
Basics of CO2 Emission Calculations
Before you start calculating your carbon emissions, it is important to understand the difference between direct and indirect emissions.
Direct emissions (scope 1) include emissions from our own sources, such as the company vehicle fleet.
Indirect emissions (scope 2) deal with emissions from the generation of purchased energy.
Scope 3 includes other indirect emissions, such as transportation of purchased goods.
Roadmap for Calculating CO2 Emissions.
Step 1: Preparation
First, identify all activities within your company that contribute to carbon emissions. Think about energy consumption in your business premises, use of company vehicles, and business travel.
Step 2: Define Scope
Next, determine which scopes are relevant to your business. For many SMEs, scope 1 and 2 are the most relevant, but some companies should also consider scope 3.
Step 3: Mapping emission factors.
Use the appropriate emission factors for the calculation. These factors indicate how much CO2 is emitted per unit of energy or resource consumed.
Step 4: Data Collection
Collect data on energy consumption, such as electricity, gas, and vehicle fuel. Also consider business travel and transportation of goods.
Step 5: Calculate
Apply the emission factors to your collected data to calculate total CO2 emissions. Do you find it all a lot of work? We are working hard to develop a tool that will make this easy for you. No more difficult calculations! Sign up quickly and we will contact you as soon as it is live.
Step 6: Analyze and Take Action.
Analyze the results to identify the largest sources of carbon emissions within your company. Then develop strategies to reduce these emissions. Our tool provides clear dashboards with suggestions and actions so you can get started right away.
Practical Tips for Reducing CO2 Emissions
Improve energy efficiency
Small changes, such as replacing old lighting with LED bulbs or insulating your business premises, can make a big difference in your energy consumption.
Sustainable procurement policy
Consider local suppliers or products with sustainability labels. This not only reduces carbon emissions but can also increase the quality of your products or services.
Greening transportation
For companies with their own fleets, switching to electric vehicles can mean a significant reduction in CO2 emissions. Encouraging public transportation or bicycling among employees also contributes.
Being more economical with resources and materials
By using materials more efficiently, you can reduce waste while lowering your CO2 emissions. Consider reusing and recycling whenever possible.
Conclusion
Calculating and reducing carbon emissions is an essential step for any SME that takes sustainability seriously. By following the steps above, you can not only contribute to a better environment, but also realize significant cost savings and prepare for future regulations. Start measuring your CO2 emissions today and take the first step toward a more sustainable business with a free trial!
