Introduction to Carbon Footprinting

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Climate change is increasingly recognised as a major challenge, and it is widely accepted that the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions caused by humans are having a negative impact on the environment.

Virtually all human activity generates CO2 or other GHG emissions that contribute to climate change, such as using electricity generated from fossil fuel power stations, burning gas for heating or driving a petrol or diesel car, and the production, transport and disposal of raw materials and consumer goods.

The total set of GHG emissions caused directly and indirectly by an individual, organisation, event or product is commonly called their 'carbon footprint'. Calculating the carbon footprint of an organisation can be the first step in a programme to reduce the emissions it causes.

For an indication of your carbon emissions, use our online tools:
Calculate your carbon footprint 

Now read What is a carbon footprint?

 
 
Footnotes
 
For more information on corporate emissions reporting, visit the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, produced by the
World Business Council for Sustainable Development and the World Resources Institute.
 

Publications

 
 
 
 
Carbon Footprinting
This guide provides an explanation of key footprinting concepts, a definition of the term ‘carbon footprint’ and an overview of the key issues in calculating an organisation’s carbon impact.

 
Carbon footprints in the supply chain: The next step for business
The report describes a radical new way for businesses to cut carbon emissions across their supply chain, from raw materials to product disposal, and to deliver low carbon products to the consumer.