Carbon Footprint Consulting

Sustainability Area

Our experience allows us to know and understand how they work.

What is the Carbon Footprint?

The Carbon Footprint is a measure of the environmental impact of an activity, organization or product, expressed in terms of the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted, generally in tons of CO2 equivalent.

It evaluates direct and indirect emissions associated with production, consumption and disposal, helping to identify and reduce sources of emissions to mitigate climate change.

What is the Carbon Footprint calculation for?

The calculation of the Carbon Footprint is used to identify and quantify the greenhouse gas emissions of an activity, organization or product. This allows us to develop strategies to reduce these emissions, improve energy efficiency, comply with environmental regulations, demonstrate commitment to sustainability, and contribute to the mitigation of climate change.

In addition, it helps companies reduce operating costs and improve their reputation and competitiveness in markets that value environmental responsibility.

Which companies are required to calculate their Carbon Footprint?

In Spain, not all companies are required by law to calculate their Carbon Footprint, but certain regulations and obligations may apply to different sectors. Some of the main regulations and situations in which companies must calculate their carbon footprint include:

Companies participating in the European Union emissions trading system (EU ETS)

Industrial facilities and power plants that emit large amounts of greenhouse gases must monitor and report their emissions annually under the EU ETS.

Public companies and large companies

Although there is no general legal obligation for all large companies, Royal Decree 163/2014 establishes the creation of the Carbon Footprint Registry, compensation and carbon dioxide absorption projects, where companies can voluntarily register their carbon footprint. This has led many large companies and public entities to calculate and record their emissions to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability.

Companies in regulated sectors

Companies in sectors such as aviation, energy production, waste management and others with high carbon intensity may have specific emissions reporting and reduction obligations.

Public sector suppliers

Some public administrations may require their suppliers to calculate and report their carbon footprint as part of public procurement criteria.
Companies that Want Environmental Certifications and Recognitions:

Many companies choose to calculate their carbon footprint to obtain certifications such as ISO 14064 or to meet sustainability and corporate social responsibility standards requirements.

How can a company reduce its Carbon Footprint?

Improved energy efficiency

Replace machinery, equipment and lighting systems with more energy efficient versions.

Insulation and Air Conditioning: Improve the insulation of buildings and optimize heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.

Sustainable transport

Renew the vehicle fleet with more efficient and low-emission options.

Efficiency in water use

Install low-flow devices and other systems to reduce water consumption.

Water Reuse: Implement water reuse and recycling systems.

Use of renewable energy

Solar Energy: Install solar panels to generate electricity or heating.
Wind Energy: Use wind turbines to produce energy.
Green Energy Purchase: Acquire electricity from suppliers that generate energy from renewable sources.

Carbon offset

Offset Projects: Invest in projects that offset carbon emissions, such as reforestation, renewable energy projects or ecosystem conservation.
Purchasing Carbon Credits: Acquire certified carbon credits to offset emissions that cannot be eliminated.

Frequently asked questions

How to calculate the Carbon Footprint?

Below we are going to explain how you could calculate your carbon footprint, but if it is too complex for your organization, do not hesitate to contact us and we will help you with whatever you need.

1. Define the Scope
Scope 1 (Direct Emissions): Direct emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the company (e.g., combustion in boilers, own vehicles).
Scope 2 (Indirect Energy Emissions): Indirect emissions from the generation of electricity, heating and cooling purchased and consumed by the company.
Scope 3 (Other Indirect Emissions): Indirect emissions not included in scope 2, which occur in the company’s value chain (e.g., business trips, transportation of products, use of products sold).
2. Collect Data
Energy Consumption: Electricity, gas, and other fuel bills.
Transportation: Mileage and fuel type of company vehicles, business trip data.
Materials and Waste: Quantity and type of materials used and waste generated.
Other Data: Use of refrigerants, specific industrial processes, etc.
3. Convert Data to CO2e Emissions
Use emission factors to convert activity data into GHG emissions. These factors indicate the amount of CO2e emitted per unit of consumption (e.g., kg CO2e per kWh of electricity).
Emission factors can be obtained from databases such as those provided by the IPCC, the European Environment Agency or local government.
4. Calculate Total Emissions
Multiply the activity data by the corresponding emission factors for each emission source.
Add emissions from all sources to obtain total CO2e emissions.
5. Verification
Internal Review: Ensure that all data has been collected and calculated correctly.
External Verification: Optional but recommended, an audit by a third party to guarantee the accuracy and credibility of the calculation.
6. Reporting and Communication
Carbon Footprint Report: Document the results of the calculation, methodologies used and data sources.
Voluntary Registration: Register the carbon footprint on platforms such as the Carbon Footprint Registry, compensation and carbon dioxide absorption projects of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge in Spain.

What is the Carbon Footprint Certificate?

The carbon footprint certificate is a document that officially verifies and recognizes that an organization, product, service or event has calculated and, in some cases, reduced its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This certificate can be issued by government agencies, recognized certifying entities or through specific voluntary programs. Below are its main features and benefits:

Characteristics of the Carbon Footprint Certificate
Emissions Verification

Confirms that the entity has calculated its GHG emissions in accordance with recognized international standards, such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) or ISO 14064 standards.
It may include verification of Scope 1 emissions (direct emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased energy) and, in some cases, Scope 3 (other indirect emissions along the value chain).
Reduction and Compensation

Some certificates also verify that the entity has implemented effective measures to reduce its carbon emissions.
It may include offsetting emissions through the purchase of carbon credits or participating in carbon reduction projects, such as reforestation or renewable energy.
Transparency and Credibility

Verification is performed by an independent third party, providing credibility and trust in the data and actions reported.
The reports and results are usually public, increasing the transparency of the climate actions of the certified entity.
Types of Carbon Footprint Certificates
Organization Certification

Verifies the emissions of an entire company or organization, including all its operations and activities.
Certification of Products or Services

Specific assessment of the carbon footprint associated with a particular product or service, considering its entire life cycle, from production to final disposal.
Event Certification

Determines and verifies the emissions generated by the holding of a specific event, such as a conference, fair or concert.
Certification Process
Data Collection

Collect detailed data on emissions sources, energy consumption, transportation, waste, etc.
Emissions Calculation

Use recognized tools and methodologies to calculate total GHG emissions in CO2 equivalent.
Independent Verification

An independent certifying entity reviews and verifies the calculations and data provided.
Certificate Issuance

If the requirements are met, the carbon footprint certificate is issued, which may be valid temporarily and require periodic renewals.
Benefits of the Carbon Footprint Certificate
Improved Reputation: Demonstrates the organization’s commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact.
Regulatory Compliance: Helps comply with local and international environmental regulations.
Competitive Advantage: Differentiates the company in the market, attracting clients and partners who value sustainability.
Operational Efficiency: Identify opportunities to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.
Access to New Markets: Facilitates access to markets and supply chains that require sustainable practices.

Differences between Carbon Footprint and Water Footprint

The carbon footprint and the water footprint are two environmental metrics that evaluate the impact of human activities, but they focus on different resources. The main differences between both concepts are detailed below:

Carbon Footprint
Definition

It measures the total amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) emitted directly and indirectly by an activity, organization, product or service, generally expressed in tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e).
Approach

It focuses on carbon emissions and other GHGs that contribute to climate change.
Calculation

It includes direct emissions (Scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased energy (Scope 2) and other indirect emissions along the value chain (Scope 3).
Impact

Helps identify and reduce sources of GHG emissions, mitigating climate change.
Methodologies and Standards

It uses methodologies such as the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol) and ISO 14064 standards.
Water Footprint
Definition

It measures the total volume of fresh water used directly and indirectly to produce goods and services, generally expressed in liters or cubic meters.
Approach

It focuses on freshwater consumption and contamination throughout the supply chain.
Calculation

It includes water used in direct production (blue water footprint), evaporation and transpiration of rainwater (green water footprint) and water contaminated by production processes (gray water footprint).
Impact

Helps identify and reduce water use and pollution, promoting sustainable management of water resources.
Methodologies and Standards

It uses methodologies such as those developed by the Water Footprint Network and ISO 14046 standards.

From when is the Carbon Footprint mandatory?

Global and European Context

European Union

The European Union is implementing various policies and regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as part of the European Green Deal. Within these policies, companies in certain sectors are already required to report their emissions.
EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS): Industrial facilities and power plants have been required to monitor and report their emissions since 2005.
Non-Financial Disclosure Directive (NFRD): Since 2018, large companies (more than 500 employees) must report on their environmental impacts, including GHG emissions.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD): This directive, which will expand non-financial reporting requirements to more companies, is expected to come into force progressively from 2024 for large companies and later for listed SMEs.
Spain

In Spain, the calculation and registration of the carbon footprint is voluntary but encouraged through the Carbon Footprint Registry of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge.
Climate Change and Energy Transition Law: Approved in May 2021, this law establishes objectives and measures to reduce emissions, although it does not impose a universal obligation to calculate the carbon footprint, it encourages transparency and voluntary reporting.