You may have heard the term “Carbon Accounting” but what is it and why is it important?
Carbon accounting is the process of identifying and measuring the amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions produced by an organisation or an individual. Carbon accounting is looking at all the various sources of emissions your organisation produces, bundled up into a 'carbon footprint'.
Carbon accounting typically involves calculating the emissions of the main greenhouse gases. These are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). The emissions are then expressed in units of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e), which is a measure that combines the global warming potential of each gas.
Carbon accounting can be used by businesses, governments, and individuals to monitor the progress they are making to reduce emissions, report on their performance, and set emissions reduction targets. It is also an important tool for managing climate risks and identifying opportunities for energy efficiency and cost savings.
You can either measure your emissions inhouse with your own resources, or you can measure your emissions with the help of a consultant. Have a think if DIY Carbon Accounting is the right option for your organisation - if you just want a general idea then there are some simple tools to estimate your emissions. But if you are looking for accurate GHG inventories that are produced in line with universal standards, the process of identifying and reporting on emissions can get complicated and become a time sink (your already stretched workforce may not thank you for it! They would need to incorporate the task of learning to measure and reporting on the organisation emissions into their often already busy workload). An activity that might take your staff a day to complete may take just a few hours for a consultant to do.
There are several reasons why you may want to do carbon accounting, or why you would get a consultant to help you with it:
1. You gain a better understanding of your organisation's impact on the environment. This information can help you identify areas where you can reduce your emissions and make more sustainable choices.
2. You may be required by law to report your carbon emissions. Carbon accounting can help ensure that you follow local regulations.
3. Reducing your carbon emissions can also lead to cost savings. For example, implementing energy efficiency measures can reduce your energy bills, and using renewable energy sources can reduce your dependence on fossil fuels.
4. Many organisations are recognising the importance of corporate social responsibility and the need to address climate change. Many of our customers are requesting it too. By doing carbon accounting, you can demonstrate your commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
5. Consumers and investors are increasingly looking for environmentally responsible companies, use it as a Competitive advantage. By reducing your carbon footprint and reporting on your emissions, you can differentiate yourself from competitors and attract environmentally conscious customers and investors.
Overall, carbon accounting can help you reduce your impact on the environment, comply with regulations, save money, and improve your reputation.
Get in touch with www.myimprint.nz if you want to start, or enhance your businesses sustainability activities.
