The business landscape is changing. Measuring a carbon footprint, something practically unheard of just a few years ago, is suddenly becoming the norm among organisations. This has left many business leaders scratching their heads, wondering why this change is happening and whether they should be getting onboard.
In this article, we will demystify the shifting business landscape, helping you to understand what a carbon footprint is, why measurement is so important, and how it actually has benefits for your business.
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are released into the environment due to the business's operations. This includes everything from the electricity used in offices, to the fuel consumed for transport, to the production of goods and services the business offers.
With the right tools and guidance, footprint measurement is actually quite simple. To get started, you'll need simple pieces of information such as fuel receipts, electricity bills, cooling maintenance records, and travel inventories. As you progress on your sustainability journey, you’ll set up processes for gathering more complicated information.
Turning the information you’ve collected into emissions data isn't difficult either. Sophisticated sustainability management platforms like FutureTracker offer user-friendly interfaces that allow you to submit your info and transform it into emissions data at the click of a button.
The primary purpose for calculating a carbon footprint is the responsibility businesses have toward the environment. Organisations obtain important insights into their impact on climate change by measuring the emissions connected with their activities. This information enables them to put strategies in place to minimise emissions, reduce environmental damage, and contribute to long-term sustainability efforts. Measuring a company's carbon footprint is an important first step towards becoming an environmentally conscious business.
Governments, regulatory agencies, and investors across the world are implementing climate change mitigation measures. As a result, businesses are under increased pressure to meet environmental standards and reporting obligations. Measuring a carbon footprint allows businesses to accurately report their emissions and demonstrate compliance with these regulations. It promotes openness and credibility, establishing the company as a responsible market player. Furthermore, with disclosure set to be mandatory for all UK businesses within the next few years, getting a head start on measurement now will allow your business to meet regulations with ease.
It is known that “what gets measured gets managed”. Measuring a carbon footprint can uncover opportunities for cost reduction and operational efficiency within a business. The process involves evaluating energy consumption, waste generation, and transportation patterns, among other factors. Identifying areas where emissions can be reduced often leads to implementing energy-saving measures, optimising supply chains, and minimising waste. These actions not only reduce environmental impact but also generate significant cost savings over time.
In today's conscious consumer market, customers are increasingly making purchasing decisions based on a company's environmental practices. By measuring and actively reducing their carbon footprint, businesses can enhance their reputation and differentiate themselves from competitors. Demonstrating commitment to sustainability can attract environmentally conscious consumers, improve brand loyalty, and increase market share. It also sends a positive message to investors, stakeholders, and employees, enhancing the overall value of the brand.
Climate change poses significant risks to businesses, including physical risks such as extreme weather events and supply chain disruptions. By measuring a carbon footprint, businesses gain insights into their exposure to climate-related risks and vulnerabilities. This knowledge enables proactive risk management, allowing businesses to adapt, diversify supply chains, and develop resilience strategies.
Measuring a carbon footprint is no longer an optional exercise for businesses; it has become a necessity in today's sustainability-focused landscape. By quantifying emissions, businesses can actively work towards reducing their environmental impact, comply with regulations, achieve cost savings, and enhance their reputation. Moreover, measuring a carbon footprint helps businesses identify risks and develop strategies to navigate a rapidly changing climate. It is a vital step towards building a resilient, sustainable, and successful business in the long run.
If you’re ready to embrace the measurement process to position your business as a leader in the fight against climate change, FutureTracker is your ideal partner. With FutureTracker, you can confidently navigate the complexities of measuring and managing your carbon footprint, ensuring accurate reporting, and implementing effective strategies for emissions reduction.
If you would like to learn more about how FutureTracker can help you on your sustainability journey, please book a no-strings-attached consultation with us where we can find the best solution for your business.
