The carbon footprint is a measure of the total greenhouse gas emissions, expressed in terms of equivalent tons of carbon dioxide (CO2e), associated with a particular activity, organization, or product. The four main categories, often referred to as “scopes,” that contribute to an entity’s carbon footprint are commonly categorized as Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3 emissions:

1. Scope 1: Direct Emissions

• Definition: Scope 1 emissions encompass direct greenhouse gas emissions that occur from sources that are owned or controlled by the reporting entity.
• Examples:

• • Combustion of fossil fuels on-site (e.g., company-owned vehicles, on-site power generation).
  • Emissions from owned or controlled industrial processes.

2. Scope 2: Indirect Emissions – Energy Consumption

• Definition: Scope 2 emissions cover indirect emissions associated with the generation of electricity, heating, and cooling consumed by the reporting entity. These emissions occur outside of the organization’s boundaries but are a result of its activities.
• Examples:

• • Purchased electricity from the grid.
  • Heating or cooling provided by an external source.

3. Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions

• Definition: Scope 3 emissions include all other indirect emissions that occur in the value chain of the reporting entity, including both upstream and downstream activities.
• Examples:

• • Supply chain emissions, including the production of purchased goods and services.
  • Employee commuting.
  • Business travel.
  • End-of-life treatment of sold products.

4. Biogenic Carbon Emissions

• Definition: Biogenic carbon emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere from the combustion of biomass, such as wood or organic waste. These emissions are often considered separately due to the unique nature of carbon cycling in natural ecosystems.
• Examples:

• • Burning of wood for energy.
  • Decomposition of organic waste.

Additional Consideration:

It’s important to note that organizations often focus on Scopes 1 and 2 in the early stages of carbon footprint assessments, as these scopes represent direct and relatively easier-to-measure emissions. However, to comprehensively address their environmental impact, organizations are increasingly recognizing the significance of Scope 3 emissions, which often constitute the largest portion of their carbon footprint. Managing Scope 3 emissions involves collaboration with suppliers, customers, and other stakeholders across the value chain. As sustainability practices evolve, organizations are working towards measuring, reporting, and reducing emissions across all three scopes to achieve a more holistic and accurate representation of their carbon footprint.