In recent years, the Carbon Footprint has become a key indicator for assessing the environmental impact of organisations. But what exactly is the Carbon Footprint and why is it so important for companies?


WHAT IS THE CARBON FOOTPRINT?

The Carbon Footprint of an organisation is a measure of the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced by its activities, expressed in terms of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e). These emissions include all business activities, such as energy consumption, transport, waste generation and other daily operations.


HOW ARE EMISSIONS DIVIDED WITHIN A COMPANY?

A company's greenhouse gas emissions, as measured by the Carbon Footprint, are usually divided into three main categories, known as SCOPE 1, SCOPE 2 and SCOPE 3, according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol:

SCOPE 1
Direct Emissions These are emissions released directly from sources that are owned or controlled by the company. They include:
- Stationary combustion. Emissions from boilers, furnaces and generators.
- Mobile combustion. Emissions from company vehicles.
- Industrial processes. Emissions from chemical or physical processes.

SCOPE 2
Indirect Energy Emissions These emissions result from energy purchased and consumed by the company, which is produced outside the company's boundaries. They include:
- Electricity. Emissions from the production of the electricity consumed by the company.
- Heating and cooling. Emissions from purchased heat and cooling.

SCOPE 3
Indirect Emissions along the Value Chain These are all other indirect emissions that occur along the company's value chain, both upstream and downstream. They include:
- Purchased goods and services. Emissions related to the production of purchased goods and services.
- Transport and distribution activities. Emissions from transport by third parties.
- Waste generated by operations. Emissions from waste management generated by the company.
- Business trips. Emissions from business trips by employees.
- Use of products sold. Emissions from the use of products sold by the company.
- End of life of products sold. Emissions from waste management of products sold.


WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CALCULATING THE CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Calculating the Carbon Footprint is essential for several reasons:
1) Environmental Awareness. Knowing their emissions helps companies understand their environmental impact and take steps to reduce it.
2) Efficiency and Cost Reduction. Identifying the main sources of emissions allows companies to improve energy efficiency, thereby reducing operating costs. For example, adopting more efficient technologies or optimising production processes can lead to significant energy savings.
3) Regulatory Compliance. Many international and local regulations require companies to monitor and reduce their GHG emissions. Complying with these regulations avoids penalties and improves a company's operating licence.
4) Credibility towards Investors and Stakeholders. Demonstrating a concrete commitment to reducing emissions can increase investor and stakeholder confidence.
5) Green Reputation. Demonstrating a commitment to reducing emissions improves corporate reputation. Consumers and investors are increasingly aware of sustainability, and companies that commit to it can gain a competitive advantage.


INTERNATIONAL REGULATIONS AND STANDARDS

International regulations and standards play a crucial role in guiding companies in managing their emissions. Among the main standards are:
- ISO 14064-1: Concerns the calculation of GHG emissions at the organisational level.
- ISO 14067: Focuses on the Carbon Footprint of products.


WHAT ARE THE MAIN STEPS TO CALCULATE THE CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Calculating the Carbon Footprint of an organisation requires a detailed analysis of its activities. Here are the main steps:
1) Identification of Emission Sources. Analysing all company activities that contribute to GHG emissions, such as energy consumption, transport and waste management.
2) Quantification of Emissions. Use standardised tools and methodologies, such as the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1, to calculate CO2e emissions.
3) Development of Reduction Strategies. Identify specific actions to reduce emissions, such as adopting renewable energy, energy efficiency and improving operational processes.
4) Monitoring and Communication. Monitor emissions periodically and communicate results to stakeholders. This demonstrates transparency and commitment to sustainability.


CONCLUSIONS

Carbon footprint management is an essential step for companies that want to seriously tackle climate change and improve their sustainability. In addition to the environmental benefits, companies that invest in emissions reduction can enjoy significant economic and reputational advantages. Taking a proactive approach to emissions management not only contributes to environmental protection, but also positions the company as a responsible leader in the global market. Relying on an external consulting company is often a strategic choice to ensure that emissions calculations are accurate and compliant with regulations.

At MOVESION, we offer professional and strategic support to the best companies in the country, analysing the Carbon Footprint correctly and implementing different reduction strategies. This approach not only ensures accuracy, but also enables recognised certifications, improving the ESG rating, credibility and reputation of companies.