Carbon Footprint: A Deep Dive into Scope 1, 2, 3

What is a Carbon Footprint? 

A carbon footprint is like a big eco-scorecard. It tells us how much harmful “stuff”, called greenhouse gases (or GHG), we release into the air because of what we do or use. These are the gases that warm up the planet. The main one we look at is carbon dioxide (CO2), which is one of the worst offenders. 

Knowing your carbon footprint is the first step to making things better. It’s like knowing your score in a game. Once you know, you can start doing things to reduce your score and help the planet (and we can help you with it!). You can also make your business more eco-friendly and do your part to keep our environment safe and healthy. 

Scope 1 Emissions: Direct Impact 

Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions that come from sources that are owned or controlled by your organization. These emissions are typically generated by activities like:  

• • Combustion of fossil fuels: This includes emissions from your company’s owned vehicles, generators, and heating systems. 

• • Chemical reactions: Emissions from chemical processes, such as the production of cement or other industrial activities. 

• • Fugitive emissions: This category covers emissions that escape into the atmosphere, like refrigerants or leaks from equipment. 

Understanding your Scope 1 emissions helps you take control of the emissions produced directly from within your organization, making it a critical step in your sustainability journey. 

Scope 2 Emissions: Indirect Energy Impact 

Scope 2 emissions, on the other hand, are indirect emissions resulting from the generation of electricity, heating, and cooling that your company consumes. These emissions are not generated on your company’s premises, but they are related to the electricity you purchase from external sources. You can achieve a reduction of Scope 2 emissions through strategies like transitioning to renewable energy sources or adopting more energy-efficient practices.  

Scope 3 Emissions: The Broader Perspective 

Scope 3 emissions are perhaps the most challenging to measure and control because they encompass indirect emissions originating from activities outside your organization’s direct control but are related to your operations. These emissions may include: 

• • Supply Chain Emissions: Emissions linked to your suppliers, the transportation of goods, and the production of materials used in your products or services. 

• • Employee Commuting: Emissions originating from the daily commute of your employees to and from work. 

• • Business Travel: Emissions generated by your employees during work-related travel.  

Scope 3 emissions are often the most significant portion of a company’s carbon footprint, and they require a comprehensive approach to reduce. Collaboration with suppliers, optimizing transportation, and encouraging sustainable employee commuting are all crucial steps in addressing Scope 3 emissions. 

Are you interested in learning more about Scope 3? Check out the Webinar with Salesforce where we discussed all ins and outs of Scope 3 Emissions!

The importance of Understanding
Scope 1, 2, 3? 

Why should you care about Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions? Here’s why: 

• • Environmental Responsibility: Measuring your carbon footprint across these scopes is an essential step toward acknowledging and reducing your environmental impact. At Greener Company we believe we all carry the responsibility to protect the earth for ourselves, ánd future generations. 

• • Cost Efficiency: By reducing emissions, you can achieve cost savings through energy efficiency and resource optimization. 

• • Competitive Advantage: Sustainability initiatives can enhance your company’s reputation and set you apart in a competitive market. 

• • Regulatory Compliance: Many regions have stringent environmental regulations that require companies to report and reduce their carbon emissions.