Why your clients will be asking for your emissions data in 2024

Why your clients will be asking for your emissions data in 2024…

In recent years, climate change has become an increasingly important topic both globally and in Australia. The Australian government has set ambitious targets to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and businesses are being called upon to do their part. As contractors play a significant role in various industries, they too need to start measuring their GHG emissions and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

There are several reasons why contractors in Australia need to start measuring their GHG emissions. Firstly, it is an ethical responsibility to do so. As businesses, contractors have a social obligation to minimize their environmental impact and contribute to the fight against climate change. Secondly, measuring GHG emissions can help businesses identify opportunities for cost savings and increase their competitiveness. By reducing their carbon footprint, contractors can improve their brand reputation and attract environmentally-conscious customers.

In addition, measuring GHG emissions is becoming increasingly important for contractors to comply with regulations and laws. The Australian government has set a target to reduce GHG emissions by 26-28% below 2005 levels by 2030, and contractors need to play their part in achieving this target. Failure to comply with regulations could result in fines and reputational damage, which can be costly for businesses.

So, how can contractors in Australia start measuring their GHG emissions? The best way to start is by conducting a greenhouse gas inventory. This involves collecting data on all GHG emissions associated with the contractor’s operations, including energy use, transportation, and waste disposal. The data collected can then be used to calculate the contractor’s carbon footprint.

The first step in conducting a greenhouse gas inventory is to identify the scope of the assessment. This will depend on the contractor’s operations, but typically includes direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (Scope 1), indirect emissions from the consumption of purchased electricity, heat or steam (Scope 2), and other indirect emissions from the supply chain, including materials, products, and services (Scope 3).

Once the scope has been defined, contractors can start collecting data on their GHG emissions. This can be done through various methods, such as reviewing utility bills, analyzing fuel consumption, and surveying employees. The data collected needs to be accurate, comprehensive, and relevant to the contractor’s operations.

Next, the data needs to be calculated using a GHG emissions calculator, such as the Australian National Greenhouse Accounts Factors. This will help contractors convert the data into carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions, which is the standard unit for measuring GHG emissions.

After calculating the emissions, contractors can identify areas where they can reduce their carbon footprint. This may include implementing energy-efficient practices, switching to renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and optimizing transportation. These measures can not only reduce emissions but also result in cost savings and improved efficiency.

In conclusion, contractors in Australia need to start measuring their GHG emissions to contribute to the fight against climate change, comply with regulations, and improve their competitiveness. Conducting a greenhouse gas inventory is the best way to start, and contractors should ensure they collect accurate and comprehensive data to calculate their carbon footprint. By taking action to reduce their carbon footprint, contractors can not only benefit the environment but also their bottom line.