As businesses around the world move towards more sustainable practices, corporate responsibility is no longer a buzzword but an expectation. One of the ways this shift is being seen is through a growing demand from clients for emissions reports. If you haven’t yet faced this request, it's likely only a matter of time before you do. So, how should you respond when your clients ask for your emissions report?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this important aspect of modern business relationships.
The first step when your client requests an emissions report is to clarify exactly what they are looking for. Emissions reports can vary in scope, covering everything from direct emissions (Scope 1) to indirect emissions from purchased energy (Scope 2) and even emissions across your entire value chain (Scope 3).
It’s important to understand:
Clarifying these details will help you tailor your response to meet their expectations.
Once you understand the scope of the report, it’s time to gather the necessary data. Here are the common types of data you might need:
Make sure to break down this information over time (monthly, quarterly, or yearly) to provide a clear picture of your emissions trends.
If your company doesn’t already have a carbon accounting system in place, this step may seem daunting. However, there are numerous tools and software solutions available to help businesses calculate their carbon footprint.
Consider using tools such as:
These tools will convert your energy and fuel consumption into CO2-equivalent emissions, enabling you to produce an accurate and comprehensive emissions report.
Clients often want to know how your emissions reporting aligns with global standards. Reporting against frameworks such as the GHG Protocol or using a third-party verification can enhance credibility. Certification bodies can validate your emissions data, giving clients confidence that your report is accurate and meets international expectations.
Additionally, if your company has set carbon reduction targets or initiatives (such as becoming carbon-neutral or achieving net-zero), make sure these are highlighted in your report.
Most clients will want to see more than just a raw emissions figure; they are likely interested in your efforts to reduce your carbon footprint over time. Whether you're switching to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, or offsetting emissions, make sure to communicate your sustainability strategy clearly.
In your report, include:
One of the most important aspects of emissions reporting is transparency. Even if your emissions are higher than expected, clients appreciate honesty and a clear commitment to improvement. Disclose any limitations in your data, challenges faced, or areas where emissions might be underreported.
Remember, emissions reporting is not just about showcasing your current footprint but demonstrating a willingness to address and improve it.
If your clients are starting to request emissions reports, it’s likely that others will too. Rather than treating this as a one-time task, consider establishing an internal system for regular emissions reporting. This could involve:
By streamlining the process, you’ll be ready to respond to future client requests with ease, strengthening your business relationships in the process.
When clients ask for your emissions report, it’s an opportunity to showcase your company’s commitment to sustainability. By following these steps—understanding the request, gathering and calculating your data, aligning with standards, and communicating your reduction strategy—you can provide a thorough and transparent report that builds trust with your clients.
Embracing emissions reporting not only satisfies client needs but positions your company as a forward-thinking, environmentally responsible partner. As sustainability continues to shape the future of business, having a solid emissions reporting system in place will be key to staying competitive.