7 Ways Companies Can Reduce Scope 1 and 2 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions
While you may do your part for a cleaner environment, companies must account for their fair share. What can they do to lessen their ecological burden? Here’s how to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions and be a better friend to the planet.
What Are Scope 1 and 2 Emissions?
Emissions harm the environment regardless of their source. However, it’s essential to understand the difference between Scope 1 and Scope 2. The first one originates from the GHGs that a company produces. For example, a manufacturing plant could produce pollutants from its natural gas usage, thus increasing its environmental impact.
Scope 2 emissions come from the energy you purchase, not produce. For instance, a company’s municipal electricity usage would count under this category, but a power plant would count the same type of emissions as Scope 1 pollutants because they’re coming from their location. Therefore, location influences this metric based on the primary sources of emissions.
How to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Reduction is integral to meeting environmental goals and reducing harm to the planet, so how can companies accomplish these feats? Here are seven ways to mitigate Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.
1. Invest in Electric Equipment
The Environmental Protection Agency says fossil fuels are the largest contributor to GHG emissions. Therefore, electrification is needed across the board to reduce Scope 1 pollutants. Companies should start with their in-house equipment, which may use gasoline or diesel.
From forklifts to generators, businesses have numerous opportunities for electrification. Another welcome change to operations would be using electric vehicles (EVs) instead of internal combustion engines. EVs run on battery power and don’t use fossil fuels, so they’d be excellent for addressing Scope 1 emissions.
2. Prioritize On-Site Renewable Energy
Your automobile or window producer likely has boilers and furnaces in their operations. On-site energy production matters for Scope 1, so better systems are necessary. Companies can reduce this harm by implementing solar panels and wind turbines for cleaner generation.
Companies using renewable energy understand how to reduce GHG emissions. Experts say solar panels offset more pollutants than planting trees because of their incredible abilities. One acre of photovoltaic technology goes a long way toward ensuring cleaner operations and reduced environmental liability.
3. Prevent Leaks
While renewable energy production is essential, companies must reduce leaks to decrease their GHG emissions. From industrial facilities to offices, buildings use refrigeration to maintain comfortable temperatures and clean air. Otherwise, occupants could be exposed to toxic gases and become ill.
Modern technology helps businesses understand where the leaks are despite limited visibility. For instance, infrared cameras and ultrasonic detectors can identify leaks when they aren’t easy to see with the naked eye. Eco-friendly AC units include service and cleaning dates to ensure employees do their best in Scope 1 reduction.
4. Educate Employees
Equipment significantly determines annual Scope 1 emissions, but employee behavior will also affect these metrics. Industry professionals handle the machines and prevent wasteful practices with proper education. Experts say sustainability matters for associates and business partners, so companies should ensure their workers have adequate knowledge.
Employees can impact their workplace by identifying inefficiencies in their workflow, such as suboptimal machines or electronics. Energy-intensive hardware can increase Scope 1 emissions, so workers should flag processes that are going unnoticed.
5. Leverage Smart Technology
Companies that use municipal energy might be unable to control its source. Scope 2 emissions may rise if the local utility company uses fossil fuels to power the community. Therefore, companies need smart technology because it saves money while reducing their carbon footprint.
Smart thermostats are essential for daily operations because they monitor the temperature and energy consumption in real time. These autonomous devices can automatically adjust lighting, heating and other electricity-intensive appliances. Business owners can incorporate this technology into their key performance indicators and find improvement areas.
6. Participate in Demand Response Programs
Increasing energy demand means an organization should be more aware of pricing and emissions. Peak hours mean utility companies utilize less efficient power plants to meet community needs. Therefore, Scope 2 liability could quickly increase if company leaders aren’t careful with their building’s operations.
Demand response programs offer one way to help. These initiatives encourage users to shift their demand to when more electricity is available, thus lessening grid strain. Alternatively, the utility company may incentivize reduced energy usage during peak times to prevent blackouts and the need for more power plants.
7. Encourage Commuter Programs
Employees may use company cars to travel and conduct official business, so filling up the tank is necessary. The fuel consumed increases Scope 2 emissions and harms the community due to toxic gases. How can business professionals reduce the burden? Commuter programs are an excellent starting point.
These workplace initiatives encourage everyone to use alternative transportation options as often as possible. Public transit reduces GHG emissions by two-thirds per passenger, so buses and trains go a long way. If employees live close together, they could carpool to work and cut the Scope 2 pollutants.
Learning How to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
While companies must tackle their Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, you can do your part by supporting sustainable businesses. Research and make informed decisions before you book hotels or spend money at restaurants. Saving the planet from toxic gases and pollutants is a team effort that requires everybody’s participation.
