Monday 15 November 2021
You’ve set your emissions reduction targets – now what?
Setting your emission reductions targets (also known as, science-based targets) has become increasingly important as businesses strive to reach sustainability. The UK continues to encourage businesses to set targets, to accelerate towards net zero and trigger a boost to the economy.
And while reducing your emissions is simply the most beneficial route to follow, it can be difficult to know which steps to take. Reaching your emissions reduction targets means setting out a balanced and easy to navigate road map. But the real question lies in where to start.
So, once you’ve set your emissions reduction targets, what’s next?
Track your emissions
To be able to set your emissions reduction targets, you must first know your consumption. But knowing your consumption is also essential as you continue to journey towards your targets. When tracking usage, businesses must take into consideration the three scopes of emissions. These are defined by the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol Corporate Standard.
Tracking your emissions levels means you can accurately gauge your progress and set further targets. Reporting emissions also reassures potential clients and investors that your business is making progressive steps towards emissions reduction targets. Understanding where your business sits in terms of emissions released and emissions that are offset will increase your knowledge of energy consumption trends. As well as where they can be made more efficient.
Reduce greenhouse gases
Once you understand your consumption and have set your targets, it’s time to begin the reduction process. Each business is unique, which means each one needs specific sustainable solutions.
Switching to renewable energy sources, opting for greener transport, and becoming more conscious of the efficiency of your appliances will help you to reduce your greenhouse gases.
Becoming energy efficient is the most advantageous thing a business can do, in terms of social, environmental, and economic benefits. By combining a reliance on renewables, energy efficiency and carbon offsetting, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and build a strong customer rapport.
Report your progression
While reporting your progression may be the last step of your roadmap toward sustainability, it is by no means less important. Businesses must keep track of their emissions reduction processes, not only to acknowledge which targets they have reached but also to see how far their business has to go.
Businesses can also go a step further by making their reports public. Making your progress publicly known gains business recognition and could bring financial benefits. Being able to advertise yourself as sustainable often engages with a wider eco-conscious audience. By being entirely transparent about your progress towards net zero, these potential clients are further encouraged to use your products and services.
How can EIC help?
Setting ambitious targets may seem challenging, but they are incredibly positive.
At EIC, we believe that having an efficient and effective Carbon Management Plan is essential in progressing towards net zero. We can help you set your science-based targets and reach them, through tailored support and comprehensive services.
To learn more about EIC’s carbon management plans, download our Science-Based Targets guide today.
