What does climate neutral mean?
Many companies today adopt a vision of climate neutrality, i.e. to not affect global warming. In order to become climate neutral, the companies and organisations can follow an effective action plan comprising:
- Mapping and estimating their climate impact
- Action programmes to reduce climate impact
- Measures to offset any remaining emissions
- Communication
How is carbon offsetting done?
Offsetting is done by supporting projects that reduce global emissions of greenhouse gases. Respect Climate arranges offsets by working with the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM). The CDM is based on the Kyoto protocol and is certified by United Nations. This project results in measurable greenhouse gas reductions, achieved by energy efficiency measures and switching to renewable sources of energy, which further results in an increased social welfare.
How is climate impact estimated?
The starting point for all climate change work is to first inventory, i.e., map and estimate, the company’s climate footprint. Respect Climate follows the international calculation standard of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, launched by the World Resources Institute and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development. The calculation standard takes into account the company’s direct and indirect emissions, which can be calculated and reported through our web-based climate application Svante, a simple tool provided to companies and organisations.
We recommend mapping:
- Climate impact from wholly owned sources
- Purchased electricity or heating
- Business travel
- Other indirect emissions
Which measures should be prioritised?
With systematic climate impact calculation as the basis, the company can prioritise the measures in an effective and even profitable way. Heating and electricity used in company offices are often found to be main sources of emissions. Moreover, the company’s business travel, employee commuting, and goods transport are also often major emissions sources. There are many action steps available which are both simple and profitable even in the short run.
What can be gained from climate change initiatives?
Reduced energy consumption entails substantial cost savings and competitive advantages. In the last two years, Respect Climate’s customers have reduced their carbon dioxide emissions by 18%, which corresponds to a reduction of 250,000 tons of carbon dioxide. This can be translated into an annual climate footprint of 43,000 Swedes and a social benefit of 50 million SEK. Read more on how the BLICC company, Vasakronan, has succeeded in producing an annual saving of 25 million SEK by systematically combating climate change.
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Can any company be climate neutral?
Respect Climate offers programmes adapted to both small companies and large international groups. We work with companies from various business sector, with government agencies, municipalities and other organisations.
We however do not work with companies which aim to hinder sustainable development.