What are scope 1, 2 and 3 carbon emissions?

Climate change is one of the most challenging issues of our time. Reducing carbon emissions is a critical way of mitigating its effect. But did you know that there are various types of carbon emissions? Enter the world of Scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon emissions as defined by the Green House Gas Protocal. Understanding the impact of each Scope type is essential in the fight against climate change.

‍Scope 1 carbon emissions‍

Scope 1 emissions refer to the direct emissions of the sources of natural resources owned or controlled by a company. This includes direct Green House Gas (GHG) emissions and emissions from company-owned vehicles, process emissions and fuel combustion. This is a mandatory reporting requirement as it is within the control of the company.

Scope 2 carbon emissions

Scope 2 emissions refer to the indirect emissions of the production processes in making their products or services. This includes the electricity that the company purchases and uses in the production process. This is a mandatory reporting requirement as it is within the control of the company.

Scope 3 carbon emissions

Scope 3 emissions refer to the indirect emissions of the company's value chain, including emissions produced by customers using the company’s product, transportation of goods, employee commuting, and suppliers making the materials the company might use.

Reducing emissions

To reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions, organisations can adopt renewable energy sources, improve energy efficiency and reduce fossil fuel use. Promoting sustainable practices, like rewilding and green sustainable development, can also help reduce emissions. The natural ecosystem is restored with rewilding, increasing an area's sequestration potential and reducing net carbon emissions. 

The boundaries of Scope 3 emissions is increasing as organisations look for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and address climate change. For example, battery mineral shortage is an issue that affects Scope 3 emissions of electric vehicle manufacturing. It's a Scope 3 emission for the companies supplying the rare earth minerals and a Scope 2 emission for the battery manufacturers.

The shortage has led to concerns about the environmental impacts of mining and processing these minerals. Companies are focusing on sustainable sourcing of battery minerals as part of their efforts to reduce Scope 3 emissions.

Another example is ecotourism, which promotes sustainable travel practices that support conservation efforts and reduces environmental pollution. 

Conclusion

As we strive towards a more sustainable future, it's crucial to understand about Scope 1, 2, and 3 carbon emissions. By implementing innovative solutions to tackle them, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint and pave the way for a cleaner, greener and more prosperous world.