Emissions breakout by scope

Is Your Net Zero Strategy Truly Cutting It?

When companies trumpet their “emissions reductions,” what are they really talking about? Because not all carbon is created equal, and understanding the difference is the first step toward genuine climate action.

There’s a BIG distinction between:

• Scope 1: The Smoke from Your Stack – These are the direct emissions you generate. Think of the fuel you burn in your factories, company vehicles, or on-site power generation. It’s the carbon you directly control and release.
• Scope 2: The Power You Plug In – These are the indirect emissions from the energy you buy. This primarily covers the electricity, heat, or steam you purchase to run your operations. You’re not burning the fossil fuels yourself, but your demand is driving those emissions elsewhere.
• Scope 3: The Unseen Giant – And this is where things get serious. Scope 3 represents the entire ripple effect of your value chain. From the raw materials you source, the transportation of your goods, employee commutes, waste disposal, and even the end-of-life of your products – these are the emissions that occur outside your direct control but are inextricably linked to your business.

The Uncomfortable Truth About Carbon Footprints

Here’s the kicker, and it’s a critical one for anyone serious about climate change:

Scope 3 emissions typically make up over 70% of a company’s total carbon footprint.

Yes, you read that right. The vast majority of a company’s climate impact often lies hidden in its broader ecosystem.

Yet, despite its monumental impact, Scope 3 remains:

• The least tracked: Many companies don’t even attempt to measure it comprehensively.
• The least reported: It’s often omitted or vaguely addressed in sustainability reports.
• The least understood: Its complexity can deter even well-intentioned efforts.

So, let’s ask the tough question: If your “net zero” strategy conveniently skips Scope 3, are you genuinely committed to climate action, or are you just playing an easier game?

It’s Time to Rethink Carbon Accountability

True climate leadership demands more than easy wins. It requires a deep dive into the entirety of your impact, confronting the challenges of Scope 3 head-on. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about building a truly sustainable future.

source:
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/net-zero-frontiers_netzero-climateaction-sustainability-activity-7341751715299213313-3Tgf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAtGGkQBsxwMBmX3lEJO8btihnfBCaHqTz4