Scope 3 categories: what are they?

Scope 3 emissions categories, also known as indirect emissions, occur as a result of a company’s activities but are not directly caused by the company. These emissions can be split into three categories:

1. Upstream emissions occur when a company produces goods and services as inputs. An example of this would be emissions from producing raw materials used in manufacturing.
2. Downstream emissions: These emissions result from a company’s products or services once they have been sold. An example of this would be emissions from using a company’s products, such as the emissions from burning gasoline in a car manufactured by a company.
3. Other indirect emissions occur due to a company’s activities but are not included in the upstream or downstream categories. An example of this would be emissions from employee commuting or waste disposal.

It’s worth noting that scope 3 emissions are often the largest source of a company’s carbon footprint. Many companies and organizations are now tracking their scope 3 emissions categories and taking steps to reduce them as part of their sustainability efforts.

Measuring and reporting scope 3 emissions can be complex, but many guidelines and methodologies are available to help companies and organizations. One of the most widely used is the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which provides detailed guidance on calculating and reporting emissions in the scope 3 categories.

In conclusion, scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions that result from the activities of a company but are not directly caused by those activities. These emissions are caused as a result of the activities of the company. Upstream emissions, downstream emissions, and other indirect emissions can all be distinguished from one another. The Greenhouse Gas Protocol provides detailed guidance on how to calculate and report scope 3 emissions, despite the fact that tracking and reporting scope 3 emissions can be a complex process. In their efforts to reduce their overall carbon footprint, businesses and other organizations are increasing scope 3 emissions in their sustainability initiatives.