What is a carbon footprint?

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, more and more people and companies are paying attention to their environmental impact. One important indicator of this impact is the carbon footprint. This concept, which has gained great importance in recent decades, plays a key role in the fight against climate change. What exactly is it, what are its types and how can we reduce it? You will find the answers to these questions in the article below.

What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is an ecological indicator that quantifies the amount of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted directly or indirectly as a result of a specific activity. This quantity is expressed in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e). Although CO2 is most often referred to, other gases such as methane (CH4) or nitrous oxide (N2O) also contribute to the greenhouse effect.

In order to take into account their actual impact, the Global Warming Potential (GWP) indicator is used to convert emissions of other gases into CO2 equivalents. The formula used to calculate greenhouse gas emissions is as follows:

GEI (t CO2e) = GEI (t gas) * GWP of gas

The first step in calculating the carbon footprint is a greenhouse gas emissions inventory or a life cycle analysis of a product or process. On this basis, a strategy can be developed to reduce emissions by improving energy efficiency, reducing the consumption of raw materials or implementing closed-loop economy principles.

Types of carbon footprint

The carbon footprint is the sum of greenhouse gas emissions, which can be analysed at different levels. Depending on the scale, there are three main categories: individual, product and corporate footprints. Each of these covers different sources of emissions and requires different actions to reduce its environmental impact.

1. individual

An individual’s carbon footprint is the total greenhouse gas emissions resulting from a person’s daily habits. It includes the choice of mode of transport, household energy consumption, diet and consumption of goods. For example, travelling by internal combustion car generates higher emissions than using a bicycle or public transport. Similarly, a diet rich in meat generates a higher carbon footprint than a plant-based diet. Energy efficiency and waste separation also contribute to reducing environmental impact.

2. Product footprint

Every product generates greenhouse gas emissions at various stages before it reaches the user – from raw material extraction, production and transport to use and disposal. The production and distribution of goods require energy, often from the burning of fossil fuels. Even at the use stage, a product may still emit CO₂, e.g. white goods that consume a lot of electricity. Therefore, choosing sustainable, energy-efficient products and recycling are key to reducing the carbon footprint.

3. Company footprint

Companies and organisations also generate significant amounts of emissions, both directly (e.g. through fuel combustion) and indirectly (e.g. through supply chains). A company’s carbon footprint includes energy used in offices and production facilities, transport of goods, waste and emissions from suppliers. To reduce it, companies can invest in renewable energy sources, optimise logistics, implement a closed-loop economy and educate employees and customers about sustainability.

How to calculate the carbon footprint?

International standards, such as the GHG Protocol or ISO 14064, are used to calculate the carbon footprint. The basic method involves multiplying the activity data by an appropriate emission factor:

Carbon footprint = Activity data x Emission factor

Emissions are divided into three bands:

• Scope 1: Direct emissions (e.g. fuel combustion in company vehicles and boilers).
• Scope 2: Indirect emissions related to the purchase of electricity, steam or compressed air.
• Scope 3: Other indirect emissions (e.g. transport of raw materials, product disposal, supplier activities).

How do we reduce our carbon footprint?

Reducing the carbon footprint is a key step in the fight against climate change. Individuals can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by choosing public transport, cycling or electric cars. It is also important to save energy through energy-efficient appliances and consciously manage water consumption, such as turning off the tap when brushing your teeth. In addition, it is worth buying local and seasonal produce, reducing food waste and adopting a more plant-based diet.

Companies can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by optimising production processes and investing in renewable energy sources. Closed-loop economies, recycling and waste minimisation are effective ways to reduce emissions. Improving the efficiency of logistics and transport is also important, as is educating employees and customers about sustainability.

Conscious choices and simple changes in everyday life can bring tangible benefits to the environment. The more individuals and companies implement green practices, the greater the chance of reducing the effects of global warming.

FAQ – Frequently asked questions – What is a carbon footprint?