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CO2 footprint: Focus on impact and reduction

CO2 footprint: Focus on impact and reduction

Daniel Paulus

Jul 20, 2023

5 Min.

5 Min.

5 Min.

CO2 Footprint: Impact and Reduction in Focus

Introduction

The CO2 footprint has become a central metric for environmental impact – not only at the individual level but also for companies. This metric plays an increasingly important role in promoting sustainable business practices.

What is a CO2 footprint?

The CO2 footprint quantifies the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions released by human activities or business processes.

In addition to carbon dioxide (CO2), other gases such as methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) are also considered.

How much CO2 do companies emit?

The amount of CO2 emitted by companies varies depending on the industry, company size, and sustainability efforts.

Larger companies with extensive production and supply chains generally have a higher CO2 footprint than smaller companies.

Which companies emit the most CO2?

Companies that heavily depend on fossil fuels, such as those in the energy sector, heavy industry, or transportation, usually emit more CO2 than companies in other industries.

What is a good CO2 footprint?

A good CO2 footprint is achieved when companies focus on energy-efficient processes, renewable energy, and sustainable procurement to reduce their emissions.

Which companies need to account for CO2?

In many countries, companies are legally required to account for and publish their CO2 emissions through a reporting obligation. This reporting obligation is intended to encourage companies to reduce their environmental impacts and be transparent about their sustainability efforts.

Which industrial sector emits the most CO2 in Germany?

The energy sector is one of the largest CO2 emitters in Germany, followed by heavy industry and the transportation sector. (https://de.statista.com/statistik/daten/studie/1241046/umfrage/treibhausgasemissionen-in-deutschland-nach-sektor/)

Conclusion

The CO2 footprint of companies plays an important role. By implementing effective reduction strategies, companies can decrease their environmental impacts and contribute to a more sustainable future. Transparency in accounting for CO2 emissions allows for tracking progress.