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Measure, Reduce & Eliminate Scope 1 & 2 Emissions

Scope 1 & 2 Emissions Explained

Reducing carbon emissions has become a priority for businesses, with reporting of Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions now mandatory for many under frameworks like the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) and Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD). For companies working toward net zero, understanding these emissions is an ideal first step in achieving sustainability.

Scope 1 and 2 emissions fall within a business’s control, making them manageable with targeted strategies. Here’s a breakdown:

Scope 1 Emissions: These direct emissions arise from assets owned or controlled by the business, including:

  • Stationary Combustion: Fuel used on-site, such as gas, oil, and diesel.
  • Mobile Combustion: Emissions from company-owned vehicles like cars, trucks, and vans.
  • Fugitive Emissions: Unintended emissions from leaks of greenhouse gases, e.g., refrigerants.
  • Process Emissions: Emissions from industrial and manufacturing processes, such as factory chemicals and fumes.

Scope 2 Emissions: These are indirect emissions from the purchase of power, steam, heating, or cooling, generated off-site but consumed by the business.

Why measure Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions?

Measuring Scope 1 and 2 emissions provides a baseline for carbon reduction, helping businesses to identify where to start and set achievable targets. Reporting on these emissions is already mandated under compliance programs like ESOS and SECR, and further requirements may emerge. Early reporting practices can simplify future compliance and foster a proactive approach to sustainability.

Benefits of Managing Scope 1 and Scope 2 Emissions

Effective management of Scope 1 and 2 emissions offers numerous advantages:

  • Identify Emission Patterns: Spot peaks and troughs in emissions for timely solutions.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Stay current with reporting and compliance requirements.
  • Operational Savings: Cut costs by improving energy efficiency.
  • Progress Toward Science-Based Targets (SBTs): Align emission reductions with SBTs for sustainability leadership.
  • Competitive Advantage: Stand out by showcasing efforts in carbon reduction and energy efficiency.
  • Reputation and Investment: Attract investors, customers, and employees with strong sustainability credentials.
  • Contribution to Net Zero Goals: Play a role in the 2050 net zero target, reducing environmental pollution and promoting a healthier planet.

Strategies for Reducing and Eliminating Scope 1 Emissions

Managing Scope 1 emissions can be straightforward by focusing on two main areas: company facilities and company vehicles.

Reducing Emissions in Facilities:

  • Optimise heating systems to improve energy use.
  • Replace outdated equipment with energy-efficient models.
  • Install carbon-neutral or biosourced combined heat and power (CHP) systems.
  • Train employees on sustainability practices and establish a dedicated sustainability team.

Reducing Emissions in Vehicles:

  • Optimise vehicle loads and journey routes to save fuel.
  • Implement speed limits for company vehicles.
  • Transition to a hybrid vehicle fleet.

Eliminating Emissions in Facilities:

  • Convert heating systems to electric to reduce emissions.
  • Invest in on-site renewable generation, such as solar panels, to offset energy needs.

Eliminating Emissions in Vehicles:

  • Minimise travel by replacing in-person meetings with virtual options.
  • Transition to a fleet powered by electric or hydrogen vehicles.

Strategies for Reducing and Eliminating Scope 2 Emissions

While reducing Scope 1 emissions, businesses can simultaneously tackle Scope 2 emissions. Strategies for reduction include:

  • Energy Use Reduction: Set targets and promote energy-saving behaviours across the organisation.
  • Optimise Building Energy Use: Efficiently manage HVAC, lighting, and other energy-consuming systems.
  • Asset-Level Monitoring: Track energy use at the asset level to identify waste.
  • Low-Carbon Energy Supplier: Switch to suppliers offering low-carbon options.
  • Install Carbon Neutral or Biosource CHP: Reduce reliance on grid electricity.

Eliminating Scope 2 Emissions:

  • Switch to purchasing 100% renewable energy.
  • Generate renewable energy on-site through wind or solar installations.
  • Continue monitoring energy use to identify new efficiency opportunities.

Understanding and managing Scope 1 and 2 emissions is foundational for any carbon reduction strategy. By taking action on these emissions, businesses can establish a solid baseline, meet compliance requirements, and contribute significantly to sustainability goals.

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  • Author: Antonia Cheng, Energy Analyst & Conor Howard, Energy Analyst

  • Creative: Robyn Miller, Marketing Manager

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