Define Carbon Emissions: A Guide for SMEs

Most organizations would agree that understanding carbon emissions is crucial for environmental sustainability.

By clearly defining carbon emissions, SMEs can map out targeted strategies to reduce their climate impact.

This guide unpacks exactly what carbon emissions are, where they come from in SME operations, and how businesses can measure, report on, and reduce their carbon output.

Unpacking Carbon Emissions for SMEs

Defining Carbon Emissions and Their Impact

Carbon emissions refer to the release of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide (CO2), into the atmosphere from human activities. These emissions occur whenever fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas are burned for energy, such as operating facilities, powering machinery, and fueling vehicles.

For SMEs, understanding carbon emissions is key for several reasons:

Carbon emissions contribute to climate change by trapping heat in the atmosphere, leading to rising global temperatures, shifts in weather patterns, melting polar ice caps, and more extreme weather events. Tracking and reducing emissions is crucial for environmental sustainability.
Many governments now require companies to report annual emissions as part of climate accountability legislation. Accurately measuring carbon footprint ensures legal compliance.
Investors, partners, and consumers increasingly favor eco-conscious brands with net-zero emissions targets. Communicating emissions data demonstrates commitment to sustainability.

In summary, quantifying carbon emissions allows SMEs to minimize environmental impact, avoid regulatory risks, and appeal to green stakeholders. Planning decarbonization strategies first requires defining emission sources.

The Greenhouse Effect: How Carbon Emissions Alter Our Climate

The greenhouse effect is the process by which gases in Earth's atmosphere trap infrared radiation from the sun. While some level of greenhouse warming occurs naturally, human activity has intensified this effect. Burning oil, gas, and coal for energy releases extra CO2 and other heat-absorbing gases like methane into the air.

More greenhouse gases mean more heat gets trapped, causing average global temperatures to rise over time. Even minor persistent warming impacts climate patterns across the planet. Glaciers and polar ice sheets melt faster, altering ocean currents. Weather becomes more extreme with intense storms, floods, droughts, and heat waves. Sea levels rise as ice melts and oceans expand from absorbing excess heat.

Understanding this chain reaction underscores why curbing carbon emissions matters. Small actions by individual SMEs accumulate to drive large-scale climate shifts. Tracking emissions through carbon accounting software is the first step to reducing environmental footprint.

Is Carbon Emissions Bad? Understanding Environmental Implications

The short answer is yes - carbon emissions unequivocally damage the planet and accelerate climate change. The greenhouse gases driving global warming linger for centuries after being released. According to climate scientists, the next decade represents a critical window for slashing emissions if we hope to avoid catastrophic and irreversible planetary heating.

For SMEs, several implications stem from carbon emissions:

Physical risks - More extreme weather threatens supply chains through disrupted transport, infrastructure damage, resource scarcity, and inability to operate facilities.
Market shifts - Changing socioeconomic conditions alter consumer behaviors and industrial market demand as climate impacts cascade.
Reputational risks - Stakeholders concerned about sustainability issues may withdraw investment and partnerships if emissions are not addressed appropriately.

Tracking and reporting emissions is thus the first step to risk mitigation. From there, SMEs can implement decarbonization strategies through renewable energy procurement, resource efficiency, carbon offsets, and more. Though the emissions problem seems daunting, carbon accounting software helps simplify the process.

What is the simple definition of carbon emissions?

Carbon emissions, sometimes referred to as carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, are releases of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere from human activities. These emissions occur through the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy, as well as from deforestation, land use changes, industrial processes, and agriculture.

When we burn fuels like gasoline or coal, chemical reactions release CO2 as a byproduct. As more CO2 accumulates in the atmosphere, it acts like an insulating blanket trapping heat and warming the planet over time. This buildup of CO2 due to human activity is the primary cause of climate change.

In simpler terms:

Carbon emissions = releases of CO2 gas, mainly from burning fuels
These emissions act to warm the planet over long periods
The buildup is largely due to human activities like energy, transport, industry etc

By accurately measuring and reporting carbon emissions over time, companies can track their contribution to climate change. This allows them to identify opportunities to reduce emissions through improved efficiency, renewable energy, carbon offsets and more sustainable practices. Understanding one's carbon footprint is the essential first step for any business seeking to curb their environmental impact.

What is the emission of carbon?

Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. These emissions come primarily from human activities like energy production, transportation, industrial processes, agriculture, and changes in land use.

When we burn oil, coal, natural gas or waste for energy, CO2 is released. Deforestation and some industrial processes like cement production also cause CO2 to enter the atmosphere. The collection of all these emissions contributes to climate change.

What are examples of carbon emissions?

Examples of carbon emissions include:

Combustion of natural gas and petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, and propane to generate electricity, heat buildings, and power transportation. When burned, these fossil fuels emit carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O).
Production and manufacturing processes that rely on electricity from fossil fuel power plants. The electricity used generates indirect carbon emissions.
Deforestation through agriculture, logging, and land use changes releases CO2 into the atmosphere when trees that absorb and store carbon are cleared.
Industrial operations like steel making, cement production, and oil refining that require heat energy from burning coal and natural gas, resulting in CO2 and methane emissions.
Solid waste decay in landfills under anaerobic conditions releases methane. Incomplete combustion of waste also causes emissions.

As per EcoHedge's blog, residential and commercial sector emissions from natural gas consumption represented 80% of direct CO2 emissions from fossil fuel use in 2021. So space and water heating using natural gas is a major source of carbon emissions for this sector.

What are carbon emissions and why are they bad?

Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere from burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. When we drive cars, generate electricity, manufacture products, or do other activities that involve combustion, carbon emissions are produced.

These emissions are problematic because they exacerbate climate change. As CO2 builds up in the atmosphere, more heat gets trapped on Earth. This causes global temperatures to rise, leading to melting glaciers, rising sea levels, more extreme weather events, and disruption of ecosystems. Scientists have directly linked increased carbon emissions from human activity to the warming trend observed since the mid-20th century.

The effects of climate change pose huge risks to communities, economies, and the natural world. That's why many leading health and environmental organizations consider climate change one of the greatest threats facing humanity this century. By measuring and reducing carbon emissions, we can curb additional warming and mitigate some of the expected impacts.

Many countries and companies have pledged to achieve "net zero" emissions by 2050. This means removing as much CO2 from the atmosphere as what gets emitted, resulting in a neutral overall carbon footprint. To accomplish this sustainability vision, organizations need the tools to accurately track their emissions sources and identify opportunities to cut emissions. Understanding the fundamentals of what defines carbon emissions represents an important first step on the path toward decarbonization.

What Are Carbon Emissions Caused By? Identifying SME Emission Sources

Carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. For SMEs seeking to measure and reduce their environmental impact, it's important to understand what business activities cause carbon emissions.

This section examines three major sources of emissions for SMEs: energy use, transportation, and supply chains. It also highlights sector-specific activities that contribute to different companies' carbon footprints. Tracking these sources enables SMEs to prioritize reduction strategies.

Energy Use in SME Operations

On-site energy consumption is a primary contributor to emissions for most SMEs. Key activities to assess include:

Electricity used to power facilities and equipment
Heating/cooling from natural gas, oil, or electric systems
Cooking and industrial process heat from burners or boilers

Energy use varies greatly between sectors. Service companies may focus on offices, while manufacturers examine factory and machinery electricity/fuel use. Understanding your facilities' energy mix is the first step to reducing associated emissions.

Transportation: What is CO2 Emissions in Cars and Other Vehicles

Transportation fuels used in vehicles owned or leased by SMEs can cause substantial emissions. Consider:

Fleet vehicles like cars, trucks, forklifts, and company cars
Employee commuting in personal cars for work
Shipping/freight via air, truck, rail, or sea

As an example, replacing older diesel trucks with electric models can significantly lower automative emissions. Whether by switching vehicle types, limiting trips, or reducing shipping distances, SMEs have multiple ways to decrease transport-related emissions.

Supply Chain and Manufacturing Processes

Supply chain activities that occur beyond a company's own facilities also contribute to its carbon footprint. These include:

Materials extraction/mining and processing
Manufacturing and assembly of purchased products
Transportation between supply chain stages
Waste from packaging, production, and product disposal

Understanding supply chain impacts enables SME manufacturers in particular to collaborate with partners on emissions reductions. This may involve switching suppliers, streamlining logistics, or re-designing products for lower lifetime emissions.

While energy, transportation, and supply chains are major sources universally, SMEs in different sectors should also examine industry-specific activities for reducing their carbon footprints. Constructing a detailed emissions inventory is key to optimal reduction strategies.

Quantifying Emissions: How to Measure Carbon Emissions in SMEs

Estimating carbon emissions can seem daunting for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) just getting started on their sustainability journey. However, following some key principles around organizational boundaries, emission factors, and carbon calculator tools can simplify the process.

Establishing Organizational Boundaries for Emissions Accounting

Defining your company's organizational boundaries for carbon accounting involves determining which operations, facilities, and vehicles to include when measuring emissions. As an SME, focus first on accounting for your Scope 1 and 2 emissions:

Scope 1 covers direct emissions from sources you own and control, like company vehicles, on-site fuel combustion, and fugitive refrigerant leaks.
Scope 2 encompasses indirect emissions from purchased electricity used in your owned or controlled equipment.

Also assess major Scope 3 sources like employee commuting, business travel, waste disposal, etc. You can refine boundaries in later reporting cycles.

Applying Emission Factors to Estimate Carbon Output

Emission factors allow companies to estimate their GHG emissions based on activity data - like kWh of electricity used, liters of fuel burned, miles traveled, etc. Public sources like government agencies publish factors for common activities.

Multiply your activity data by the relevant emissions factor to determine the associated CO2e emissions. For example, utility bills provide kWh electricity data to estimate Scope 2 emissions using published electricity emission factors.

Carbon Calculators: Tools for SME Emission Estimates

Online carbon calculators like EcoHedge Express help SMEs easily collect activity data and run emission factor calculations. These tools guide you through assessing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emission sources across your organizational boundary.

Leveraging carbon calculators simplifies data collection and calculations so your team can efficiently generate a GHG inventory for sustainability reporting and carbon reduction planning.

Carbon Emissions Examples: Strategies for Reduction in SMEs

SMEs can take various approaches to reducing their carbon emissions and improving sustainability. This section outlines practical strategies across key areas like facilities, transportation, and energy sourcing.

Improving Energy Efficiency in SME Facilities

Conduct an energy audit to identify opportunities to enhance efficiency in lighting, HVAC systems, equipment use, etc. This allows you to prioritize high-impact energy conservation measures.
Switch to LED lighting and install smart lighting controls like occupancy sensors and daylight harvesting systems. This can reduce lighting electricity use by 40-80%.
Improve building insulation in walls, roofs and windows to prevent heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. Simple fixes like weather stripping and caulking around windows can also help.
Install a building automation system to optimize HVAC system performance. Smart temperature and airflow adjustments driven by occupancy patterns can yield 10-30% HVAC electricity savings.
Replace old, inefficient equipment (like refrigerators and computers) with ENERGY STAR certified models which are designed to use 25-50% less energy.

Embracing Low-Carbon Transportation Solutions

Establish employee commute programs promoting public transport, ride-sharing, biking and telecommuting. Provide incentives for sustainable commuting through benefits like public transit passes.
For vehicle fleets, switch to electric vehicles or hybrids to reduce tailpipe emissions. Install EV charging stations on-site. Set fuel efficiency minimums when acquiring new fleet vehicles.
Use route optimization software for logistics operations to reduce miles driven. This allows you to serve customers with fewer vehicles.
Shift freight transport from truck and air shipping to lower-emission rail transport. While slower, rail transport yields substantial emissions reductions.

Switching to Renewable Energy Sources

Install on-site solar photovoltaic systems, leveraging state/federal tax credits and incentives where available. Rooftop solar yields clean power and cost savings from reduced utility bills.
Procure renewable energy certificates (RECs) or enroll in a green power program through your electricity provider. This finances adding clean energy to the grid on your behalf.
For SMEs unable to install on-site renewables, sign a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA). This contracts future clean energy from a specific facility like a wind or solar farm.

Embracing even a handful of these tactics can drive significant, measurable carbon and cost reductions helping SMEs achieve sustainability targets. Smaller firms may lack resources, but smart strategies make meaningful impact feasible.

Committing to Climate Goals: Setting Science-Based Emissions Targets for SMEs

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a crucial role to play in limiting global warming. By setting ambitious science-based emissions targets, SMEs can align their climate action with international efforts to decarbonize the economy.

Aligning with Global Carbon Budgets

To avoid the worst impacts of climate change, the world must restrict cumulative CO2 emissions to within a certain "carbon budget". SMEs can contribute by setting emission targets consistent with these budgets. For example, targets to reduce emissions by 4-6% yearly are aligned with keeping global warming below 1.5°C. Tools like the SBTi Target Setting Tool can assist SMEs in developing science-based targets.

Adopting such targets signals that an SME is serious about decarbonization and encourages stakeholders to view their climate commitments as credible. It also helps SMEs identify energy efficiencies and low carbon opportunities. Most importantly, science-based targets give SMEs a defined decarbonization roadmap to follow.

Mapping Out Decarbonization Pathways for SMEs

Once SMEs have defined science-based emission targets, the next step is outlining a realistic pathway to achieve them. This involves:

Conducting an accurate carbon footprint assessment to understand the major sources of emissions
Modeling different abatement scenarios to reduce emissions across operations
Setting incremental targets every 5 years and defining reduction initiatives to hit each milestone
Continually monitoring progress through carbon accounting software

For example, an SME may set a target to reduce emissions 50% by 2030 from a 2020 base year. Their decarbonization pathway may involve targets to reduce emissions 20% by 2025 through energy efficiency upgrades, then achieve the full 50% target by 2030 by switching heating systems to renewable alternatives.

Ensuring the Credibility of Carbon Emission Targets

To ensure emission targets are considered ambitious and credible by stakeholders, SMEs can have them validated by independent organizations such as the Science-Based Target Initiative (SBTi).

The SBTi assesses if targets are in line with climate science, then provides official approval. This validation adds credibility and gives stakeholders confidence in the rigor of SME climate commitments.

Similarly, choosing to publicly disclose carbon footprints and progress to targets through reporting frameworks like CDP allows scrutiny from stakeholders. Committing to such transparency motivates SMEs to set ambitious targets and rigorously pursue them.

Staying on Track: Monitoring and Reporting SME Carbon Emissions

Consistently tracking and disclosing carbon emissions is key for SMEs on the path to net-zero. By developing robust emissions monitoring systems, utilizing standardized reporting frameworks, and leveraging credible disclosure platforms, SMEs can effectively communicate their sustainability efforts to stakeholders.

Developing a Robust Carbon Inventory Management System

To accurately track emission reductions against targets over time, SMEs need a comprehensive carbon accounting system. This involves:

Regularly collecting data on all emission sources per GHG Protocol scopes
Recording methodology, assumptions and emission factors used in calculations
Managing historical emissions data in a central database
Automating data collection and analysis where possible

With diligent tracking and record keeping, SMEs can identify the largest areas for potential reductions.

Utilizing Reporting Frameworks for Transparent Emissions Disclosure

Widely adopted standards like the GHG Protocol provide guidelines for calculating and reporting emissions in a consistent and transparent way. Key elements include:

Reporting all relevant GHG gases and scopes
Using recognized calculation tools and emission factors
Getting data externally verified for credibility
Sharing progress against public reduction targets

Standardized reporting builds trust and understanding with stakeholders.

Choosing the Right Platforms for Carbon Disclosure

Voluntary disclosure programs like CDP enable companies to publicly showcase sustainability initiatives. Benefits include:

Independently assessed and benchmarked performance
Increased visibility to investors and supply chain partners
Driving further emission reductions through transparency

Select platforms aligned with business goals for maximum impact.