Help notes: GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS REPORTING
Do you measure the greenhouse gas emissions of your organisation’s business operations? (Scope 1 and 2)?
This question is about being able to put a figure on your organisation’s greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. This is sometimes called a carbon footprint.
Showing this commitment to combatting climate change can be a positive for customers, employees and other partnerships, and there are increasing requests for this type of information from government and other bodies. Longer term, if you cut emissions this often means cutting costs through increased energy efficiency.
What is a ‘Yes’ for me?
By answering ‘yes’ to this question you are saying that you do measure the scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions of your organisation’s operations, and that you could provide this information.
- Scope 1 emissions are direct from sources you own or control, typically buildings or vehicles (e.g. gas boilers, vehicle fuel)
- Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions from purchased energy, usually electricity
(We are not asking for Scope 3 emissions here, e.g. from employee commuting, business travel, your supply chain, waste disposal, and more)
Does this question apply to me? Is this a regulatory requirement?
This question is for all suppliers. Organisations of any size can consider their impact.
Large businesses are required to report their greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) government regulations.
For small and medium sized businesses there is no regulatory requirement though they are likely to be asked for this information if bidding for a public sector contract.
How can I measure my Greenhouse Gas Emissions? (for smaller organisations)
There are many calculators available online to calculate your greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, if you don’t do this already. Some of these are free.
To measure scope 1 and 2, you will need to get together some information about fuel and energy consumption at your organisation. Typically this will include:
- Consumption of gas, petrol, diesel, other fuel sources and electricity used in your buildings and vehicles
The free calculators mentioned below are based on the standards of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which is the main body for setting GHG emissions standards. These use different approaches but have a similar goals.
Small99 Carbon Footprint Estimator: Simple web form; covers carbon footprint and some other areas
Carbon Trust SME Carbon Calculator: enter your information via a web form
Natwest Carbon planner: needs sign up. Guidance given through the form, and actions suggested
SSE small business Carbon Footprint Calculator: enter your own data into a downloaded Excel file, choose what scope to include. Does not consider direct vehicle emissions so best for organisations with no vehicles.
There are also many paid services available.
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More information about Greenhouse Gas Emissions reporting