Measuring Scope 3 of the carbon footprint is one of the biggest challenges in sustainability, as it encompasses indirect emissions throughout a company’s entire value chain, including the use of products or services provided. However, it is essential for understanding the true impact of operations and complying with regulations like the CSRD. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of efficiently calculating your Scope 3 of the carbon footprint.
What are scope 3 emissions?
According to the GHG Protocol, carbon emissions are divided into three scopes:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned sources, such as vehicles or machinery.
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from the consumption of electricity, steam, or heating.
- Scope 3: Indirect emissions across the entire value chain, including suppliers, transportation, product use, and more.
Scope 3 is the most complex to measure, as it includes 15 categories covering upstream (before the product reaches the company) and downstream (after the product leaves) activities.
Step-by-step guide to measuring scope 3 of the carbon footprint
1. Define the scope of analysis
Start by determining which Scope 3 categories to include in your calculation. Common categories are:
- Upstream: Emissions from suppliers, inbound logistics, and waste management.
- Downstream: Emissions from product distribution, product use by customers, and end-of-life disposal.
Prioritize the most relevant categories based on your company’s sector and environmental impact.
2. Collect activity data
For each selected category, identify the necessary data. Examples include:
- Suppliers: Quantities of materials purchased, distances traveled, and transportation modes.
- Transportation: Volume of goods transported, distance, and fuel type used.
- Product Use: Estimated data on how customers use products and their lifespan.
This data can be gathered from invoices, internal databases, or direct consultations with suppliers.
3. Use appropriate emission factors
Emission factors convert activity data into tons of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e). Examples include:
- A diesel truck may have an emission factor of 0.2 tCO₂e per ton-kilometer.
- Plastic production can generate between 1.5 and 3 tCO₂e per ton, depending on the process.
You can source emission factors from recognized databases such as DEFRA, IPCC, or ecoinvent, or use tools like Trazable LifeCycle, which incorporates updated factors from various verified sources.
4. Automate data collection and calculation
Due to the complexity of Scope 3, digital tools are indispensable. Platforms like Trazable LifeCycle enable you to:
- Automate data collection from suppliers and internal operations.
- Apply emission factors accurately and consistently.
- Generate verifiable reports aligned with standards such as ISO 14064 or the GHG Protocol.
This not only saves time but also reduces the risk of human error.
5. Validate the results
It’s essential to ensure that calculations are accurate and consistent. This can involve:
- Comparing results with industry benchmarks.
- Consulting external experts or auditors.
- Ensuring that supplier data is complete and up to date.
6. Generate a carbon footprint report
- Methodology used.
- Categories and data considered.
- Final results in tCO₂e by category.
- Recommendations for emission reduction.
The report should be clear, verifiable, and aligned with standards like the GHG Protocol or ISO 14064. It should include:
Platforms like Trazable LifeCycle can automate this process, generating audit-ready reports.
7. Develop emission reduction strategies
Once you’ve identified the primary sources of emissions, create plans to reduce them. Common strategies include:
- Collaborating with suppliers to adopt more sustainable materials.
- Optimizing logistics routes to reduce transportation emissions.
- Implementing circular economy programs to minimize post-consumer waste.
Useful tools for measuring Scope 3 of the carbon footprint
- Trazable LifeCycle:
Specialized in the food industry, it enables companies to calculate both product and corporate footprints, generate verifiable reports, and manage supplier data. - Simapro:
Focused on life cycle analysis, ideal for companies with advanced technical needs. - Ecochain:
Designed for small and medium-sized enterprises seeking quick calculations and data visualization. - openLCA:
An open-source platform for life cycle analysis, although it requires technical expertise.
Practical tips for efficient measurement
- Involve Suppliers Early: Their collaboration is crucial for collecting accurate data.
- Prioritize the Most Relevant Emissions: Instead of attempting to cover everything, focus on categories with the highest impact.
- Keep Data Updated: Supplier activities and internal processes may change, affecting calculated emissions.
Conclusion
Measuring Scope 3 carbon footprint is a vital step for understanding a company’s complete impact and meeting increasing transparency demands. By following this step-by-step guide and leveraging digital tools like Trazable LifeCycle, you can perform efficient, accurate calculations aligned with regulations. With the results in hand, you’ll be well-positioned to design effective emission reduction strategies and contribute to advancing sustainability.
