As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, businesses around the world are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. One way they are doing this is by measuring and reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. The most commonly used framework for this is the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which includes three scopes of emissions. However, in recent years, a fourth scope has emerged known as Scope 4 emissions. In this blog post, we will dive deep into Scope 4 emissions, what they are, and how they differ from Scopes 1, 2, and 3.
What Are Scope 4 Emissions?
Scope 4 emissions are the indirect emissions that result from the products or services a company sells. These emissions are also known as value chain emissions and are considered the most difficult to track and quantify. Scope 4 emissions are not included in the traditional Scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions because they are not directly under the company's control. Instead, they occur upstream or downstream from the company's operations.
Examples of Scope 4 Emissions
Scope 4 emissions can come from various sources, including:
- The production of raw materials used in the company's products or services, such as farming, mining, and forestry.
- The transportation and logistics involved in getting the raw materials to the company's facilities.
- The emissions resulting from the use of the company's products or services by consumers or other businesses.
- The disposal of the company's products or services, such as waste management or recycling.
Why Are Scope 4 Emissions Important?
Scope 4 emissions are essential to consider because they make up a significant portion of a company's carbon footprint. According to the World Resources Institute, Scope 4 emissions account for up to 90% of the total emissions of some industries. By measuring and reducing Scope 4 emissions, companies can take a more comprehensive approach to climate change mitigation and achieve more significant emission reductions.
How Can Companies Address Scope 4 Emissions?
- To address Scope 4 emissions, companies can take several steps, including:
- Conducting a value chain analysis to identify the sources of Scope 4 emissions and set reduction targets.
- Collaborating with suppliers and customers to reduce emissions throughout the value chain.
- Encouraging sustainable consumption and waste management by customers and other stakeholders.
- Investing in renewable energy and other low-carbon technologies.
Conclusion
Scope 4 emissions are becoming an increasingly critical component of corporate emissions reduction strategies. Although they are challenging to track and quantify, they represent a significant proportion of a company's carbon footprint. By taking a more comprehensive approach to greenhouse gas emissions, businesses can make a significant contribution to mitigating climate change. To achieve this, companies must work together with their stakeholders to reduce Scope 4 emissions and build a more sustainable future.
Key Takeaways:
- Scope 4 emissions are indirect emissions resulting from the products or services a company sells.
- They are also known as value chain emissions and are considered the most difficult to track and quantify.
- Scope 4 emissions account for up to 90% of the total emissions of some industries, so they are a crucial consideration for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Companies can address Scope 4 emissions by conducting a value chain analysis, collaborating with suppliers and customers, encouraging sustainable consumption and waste management, and investing in low-carbon technologies.
- By taking a more comprehensive approach to greenhouse gas emissions and working together with stakeholders, companies can make a significant contribution to mitigating climate change and building a more sustainable future.
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