Setting credible net-zero targets aligned to internationally recognised standards
Here at SBS we provide support to several local authority schemes to provide impartial advice and support for SME businesses who want to begin to understand and reduce their environmental impact but are confused by all the software, terminology, frameworks and standards available.
There are several carbon accounting standards and regulations that companies in the UK should be aware of.
Key UK Standards & Regulations
GHG Protocol: This is an internationally accepted and standardized method for calculating greenhouse gas emissions arising from organizations’ activities.
Science Based Target Initiative: This initiative provides a framework for companies to set science-based targets to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
PAS 2060: This is a specification for achieving carbon neutrality.
PPN 06/21: This policy note provides guidance on how to measure and report greenhouse gas emissions in the public sector.
TCFD: The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures provides recommendations for companies to disclose climate-related financial risks and opportunities.
In addition, the UK government has implemented the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy, which requires large companies to report their energy use and carbon emissions in their annual reports.
Data
All of the standards focus on good quality and comprehensive data to account for and create a credible environmental impact report (carbon footprint).
The UK Government publishes annual Greenhouse gas reporting emissions factors that can be used to multiply activity data by to create a carbon impact (Co2e);
10,000 km’s travelled by rail for business purposes (activity) X appropriate emission factor = Carbon emissions (kg Co2e).
There are now many carbon accounting software solutions available in the UK that can help companies measure, manage, and report their greenhouse gas emissions, some of which focus primarily on spend based data (environmental input – output), the limiting factor of this method is the data does not allow you to understand usage patterns and allow you to implement the Green House Gas hierarchy ( Eliminate, Reduce, Substitute, Compensate).
Our ongoing pro-active services offers a more than just software approach. Although backed by market leading software, SBS provide an outsourced environmental manager approach of supporting your business and following the SBS Net-Zero Program.
- Understand the frameworks required for your business.
- Measure your carbon footprint using activity-based data first, before moving onto spend based calculations utilising our market leading software.
- Create annual / baseline report aligned to the relevant standard or framework.
- Set credible net zero Science Based or industry aligned targets.
- Provide annual certification and achievement badges
- Monitor and manage your ongoing progress and data collection
SBS have teamed up with leading national and global assessment, verification and certification bodies BSI (The British Standards Institute) and NQA to provide a robust, credible route to net-zero and accreditation to ISO14064 and PAS2060 standards should this be a route for your business.
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