In this article, we’ll explain what green coding is, the benefits of using green coding, how it could help boost sustainability, and how to transition to the use of green coding.

What is Green Coding?

You’ve heard of green living, but have you ever heard of green coding?

Technology is one of the most impressive and convenient creations to date, but it also poses a threat to a challenge we have yet to overcome – climate change. 

Luckily, part of the answer to reducing the environmental impact created by software systems may be for companies and their IT departments to implement the use of green coding.

Green coding, also sometimes referred to as green programming, refers to the set of practices employed to create new programs in software development that use less amounts of energy.

Think of green coding as being similar to green living or other “green” practices – it is an effort to reduce the environmental impact created on behalf of technology and software, both of which are important seeing as technology alone is currently responsible for 4% of global GHG emissions.

What is green coding or Green Programming? 
Green coding or Green Programming is an environmentally sustainable computing practice that seeks to minimize the energy involved in processing lines of code and, in turn, help organizations reduce overall energy consumption.

C is considered as most green language and python is considered as least green language.

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https://curiosum.com/blog/green-codin...


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What is Green Coding or what is Green Programming

Essentially, green coding works to reduce its environmental impact by rewriting a programming code to reduce the energy consumption of a certain software – such as when using iMovie, Logic Pro X, or Microsoft Word. 

When seeing to implement green coding, there are two important factors to consider:

Structural Changes – This refers to the actual units of code, and the potential energy that certain sets of code may use. In addition to this, structural changes can refer to improving overall efficiency in IT and improving cloud-based infrastructure.

Circumstantial & Cultural Changes – This refers to the potential various scenarios in which the coding could have an impact on the energy consumed by the user – such as the difference between uploading a video to YouTube or sending an email. Also, cultural changes may refer to making sure that all management and employees are aware of the changes green coding may bring.

👉 Green coding is one of the most logical ways we could reduce the environmental impact created by technology and software without needing to go cold turkey on these programs or devices.

Green coding is important seeing as technology is behind almost everything we do in our everyday lives, from paying with an iPad at a cash register or turning on the TV to watch the news.

As software continues to demonstrate its contribution to unprecedented levels of greenhouse gas emissions, green coding will become more and more imperative to make our habitual use of technology more sustainable – as the world isn’t going to stop using software or technology altogether.

💡 Remember, green coding can be used for more than improved energy efficiency in software – but to help encourage greater sustainable software development elsewhere. 

For instance, if Apple resigns its iCloud system with green coding – it can further help to reduce their overall emissions and make their other products more appealing to consumers concerned about climate change. Therefore, an example of green coding can include seeking the use of renewable energy to power data storage centers. 

Additional benefits of companies who opt to use green coding include:

Reduce Utility Bills – Companies with data storage centers are bound to benefit from reduced electricity bills when implementing the use of green coding.

Attract New Customers & Investors – Companies brave enough to be cutting-edge and make green coding the new norm could intrigue new customers and investors in their software programs or other products and services.

Increased Resilience to Climate Risks – Especially important when trying to engage with your stakeholders, green coding could help companies to avoid several climate risks – such as issues with their supply chain or managing their infrastructure.

👉 Overall, green coding is important because it can allow companies to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions while still intriguing new customers and stakeholders and improving their brand reputation.

What are the main pillars of green coding?

Green coding functions on a few main principles, including working towards greener logic, greener methodology, and an overall greener platform.

The main goal of green coding is to reduce the carbon impact created by software, and ultimately, – to encourager “greener” changes elsewhere.

Here are some of the main pillars of green coding:

Green Architecture – One of the main pillars of green coding is green architecture, which refers to the process of optimizing an application for energy use. This adheres to the structural principle of green coding, where the actual units of code can be changed to optimize energy efficiency. In the end, the goal of green architecture in green coding is to reduce the amount of work and energy the hardware hosting the software must usually exert. This could include new coding for automatic shut downs, screensavers, or low power mode to help reduce energy consumption.

Green Logic – This facet of green coding refers to the ideal that each decision can create a ripple effect for green coding and ultimate energy savings. Some of these decisions could include creating improved visuals for content to help improve user speed to save time and energy, striving for “zero-waste” codes by removing old codes that don’t work anymore, using smaller or simpler files to reduce the carbon footprint of additional resources to be used in green coding, and seeking to use web applications that reduce the loading time between the server and the user. 

Green Methodology – This pillar of green coding is focused on improving the process for software development, such as by encouraging swift feedback for quicker adjustments to reduce the carbon footprint created by software development. In addition to this, code that can be reused is encouraged in green coding. 

Green Platform – In a similar way to green architecture, it is important to make the platform your software’s green coding will be hosted on “greener” in order to ensure optimal performance and energy efficiency. This could include seeking to alter the configurations for the platform or overlooking recent metrics to see how servers are handling the current supply and demand.

👉 While all programming languages are different from one another, green coding can often benefit from using coding language C as it is known to be one of the more energy efficient coding languages.  

How could green coding help boost sustainability?

Green coding could do wonders for various sustainability projects, such as by helping companies to reduce energy consumption and even increase their business revenue. 

As technology advances and becomes more apparent in our everyday lives, green coding is imperative to help raise awareness regarding the importance of sustainable efforts.

Some of the ways that green coding could help to boost sustainability include:

Reduced Energy Costs – Green coding strives to make do with less coding, and as a result – it can also help companies to slash their utility bills and reduce their carbon footprint. 

Work Towards Other Sustainability Goals – Indirectly, green coding could help companies to work towards their other goals such as working towards net-zero emissions or inspiring sustainable initiatives elsewhere within the company.

Increased Revenue – A study conducted by IBM in 2022 reveals that companies who work to implement sustainable initiatives, such as green coding, often report an increase in operating margin. As a result, this financial benefit could help companies to fund future sustainable efforts that would not have been possible if the initial sustainable efforts, such as green coding, were not implemented. 

Improved Coding Practices – Green coding encourages programmers to simplify their process, which as a result – can save programmers time on their code writing and allow them to allocate time to think of new ideas to reduce energy consumption elsewhere in the IT department.

👉 Ultimately, green coding could help to invoke other sustainable efforts within an organization – and raise awareness regarding the importance of sustainability in software development and IT.

How can your company get started with green coding?

When it comes to implementing green coding, your company will have to develop a methodical check-list to ensure that all the pillars of green coding have been met throughout the implementation process.

Green coding can make a big difference for companies looking to reduce their energy consumption long-term, but seeing as green coding must be incorporated into several facets of a company’s business model – the process of implementing green coding must be handled strategically to prove successful in the long-term.

Here are some of the most important things to consider when trying to implement the use of green coding into your company:

Sleek Software Design – Green coding will require a makeover on your current coding, meaning that repetitive code and unnecessary loops should be erased to reduce energy consumption. Sometimes, this can prove challenging – so seeking to develop smarter software that can automatically end codes when they aren’t being used is a great way to adhere to the principles of green coding. 

Choose An Energy-Efficient Coding Programming Language – Studies show that language C is the most energy efficient programming language, but other energy efficient program languages include Rust, C++, Java, and Pascal.

Work Towards Consistent Improvements – Green programming isn’t as much a ramp up towards success as it is more like a spiral staircase. There is likely to be a series of trial-and-error until you find an approach to green coding most suitable for your company. Therefore, it’s important to remain open minded and rest different components of your green coding ideology to seek consistent improvement.

Determine the Future of Your Data & Networks – Data storage centers are closely related to green coding, meaning it's important to determine new avenues for data usage and to improve certain processes such as caching to reduce energy consumption.

Be Open to New Ideas – Encouraging innovation and facilitating new collaborations are great ways to curate the most suitable green coding strategy for your company. This allows your company to compare and contrast successful tactics and possibly implement new energy-saving ideas. 

Stay Result Focused – Working to implement green coding can be a tedious process at times, meaning it’s especially important to remain goal-focused. At the end of the day, green coding can also help your company grow resilient to other challenges and be more prepared to face them! 

Overall, green coding is a great way to reduce the energy consumption of your software long-term – and it’s becoming especially important as technology continues to suffuse itself into our everyday lives.

If reading this article about green coding has made you interested in reducing your carbon emissions to further fight against climate change – Greenly can help you!

At Greenly we can help you to assess your company’s carbon footprint, and then give you the tools you need to cut down on emissions. We offer a free demo for you to better understand our platform and all that it has to offer – including assistance with boosting supplier engagement, personalized assistance, and new ways to involve your employees.

Click here to learn more about Greenly and how we can help you reduce your carbon footprint. 

In this article, we’ll explore the CCC's findings, examine the gaps in Scotland's climate plan, and discuss the implications of the government's decision to abandon its 2030 targets.

What's wrong with Scotland's 2030 climate plan?

Scotland’s ambitious 2030 climate targets, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% compared to 1990 levels, have recently come under scrutiny. The Climate Change Committee (CCC) published a damning assessment in 2023, highlighting a series of delays and a lack of comprehensive strategies to meet these goals. With the Scottish government officially acknowledging that the targets are out of reach and the recent decision to scrap the 2030 goal altogether, the focus has now shifted to the urgent need for a revised climate action plan.

👉 In this article, we’ll explore the CCC's findings, examine the gaps in Scotland's climate plan, and discuss the implications of the government's decision to abandon its 2030 targets. We'll also look ahead to what should be included in the forthcoming climate plan and how it can realign Scotland’s environmental strategy with its long-term Net Zero ambitions.

Scotland’s climate action plan in context

Scotland's climate strategy was once praised for being one of the most ambitious in the world. Enshrined into law by the Scottish Climate Change (Emissions Reductions Targets) Act, the Scottish Government committed itself to a series of progressive targets, the most immediate being a 75% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 (compared to 1990 levels). This was part of a broader vision to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2045 - five years ahead of the UK's climate target.

Initially, this goal was supported by various actions, including enhancements in renewable energy infrastructure, improvements in energy efficiency across different sectors, and substantial investments in public transport and other green initiatives. The aim was not only to meet the stringent 2030 target but also to set a precedent for comprehensive climate action that other nations could follow.

However, this ambition has been tempered by a series of setbacks. In its latest report, the Climate Change Committee (CCC) determined that Scotland is not on track to meet its 2030 targets. The report also criticized the Scottish Government for its delayed response in updating its climate action plan, crucial for setting clear, actionable policies and ensuring that the targets are met. 

The Scottish Government recently acknowledged these findings, admitting that it has now missed eight of its annual targets, rendering its 2030 targets unattainable. This resulted in the controversial decision to formally scrap these goals altogether. This decision was made amidst growing concerns over the feasibility of the rapid changes needed and the tangible impacts of policies already implemented, which have fallen short of accelerating the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions at the required rate.

The Scottish Government however has insisted that it is still determined to reach its ambition of achieving net zero emissions by 2045. Its now-overdue revision of the climate action plan is expected to address these shortcomings. It is crucial for reestablishing Scotland’s leadership in climate action and for setting realistic, yet ambitious, pathways that align with global climate targets and Scotland’s long-term environmental and economic sustainability goals.

Scottish ministers are backtracking on climate change targets after a damaging report warned that they are “no longer credible” and cannot be met.

In a significant climbdown that is likely to create fresh tensions with the Scottish Greens, Màiri McAllan, the SNP’s net zero secretary, announced her party’s ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions by 75 per cent within the next six years are now unachievable.

It will be seen as a betrayal of the commitments made in the Bute House agreement, which brought the Scottish Greens into power and promised “steps to accelerate our transition to net zero — more support for active travel, transformation of home energy and a ten-year transition fund for the North East of Scotland”.

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Scottish government abandons 2030 climate change target

Why has Scotland fallen behind on its climate action plan? 

The Climate Change Committee's (CCC) recent progress report provides a critical analysis of Scotland's ongoing efforts and challenges in meeting its ambitious climate targets set for 2030. The findings from this report paint a concerning picture of the gaps between the targets set and the actual progress made, emphasizing the need for drastic policy shifts and immediate action. Here are the key points from the CCC report that illustrate the current state of Scotland's climate strategy:

Scotland's track record with its climate goals has been disappointing, with the country missing its annual emissions reduction target yet again in 2021 (the eighth time it has fallen short in the last twelve years). Notably, emissions in 2021 saw an increase of 2.4% from the previous year, largely attributed to the economic rebound post-pandemic. This left Scotland's emissions 49.2% below the 1990 levels, far short of the targeted 75%, underscoring a continued struggle to meet set benchmarks.

One of the more concerning revelations from the CCC report is the required rate of emissions reduction to meet the 2030 targets. Scotland would need to increase its decarbonization efforts nearly ninefold to achieve a 75% reduction from 1990 levels. The report concludes that given current trajectories and the slow pace at which supply chains and investments are developing, achieving this target by 2030 is not credible.

The CCC criticizes the Scottish Government’s existing policies and strategic plans for failing to achieve the legally binding targets specified under the Scottish Climate Change (Emissions Reduction Targets) Act. There are significant risks and inefficiencies in sectors where Scotland has considerable policy autonomy, such as transport, buildings, agriculture, land use, and waste management. 

Another critical issue flagged by the CCC is the delay in updating the Scottish Climate Plan. Originally scheduled for publication in late 2023, its absence leaves a gaping hole in Scotland's climate strategy with less than six years left until the 2030 deadline. The CCC report stresses that the Scottish Government should publish this plan as soon as possible, ensuring it includes detailed and actionable policies that can mobilize the necessary sectors towards substantial emissions reductions.

The report also points to several off-track key performance indicators that are crucial for gauging Scotland's progress towards its climate targets. These include tree planting, peatland restoration, heat pump installations, and electric vehicle uptake - all lagging considerably behind their goals. 

The report did, however, acknowledge that there has been notable progress in the renewable electricity sector, especially with an increase in offshore wind capacity in 2022, showcasing some areas of progress amidst the challenges.

Scotland’s climate plan - sector review

The Climate Change Committee report includes a detailed analysis of individual sectors, pinpointing where efforts are falling short and where acceleration is critically needed. The sector-specific challenges are central to understanding why Scotland is struggling to meet its climate targets, and also to determine what needs to be done to achieve its net zero targets. Key findings of the CCC's report include:

The CCC’s report on Scotland's transport sector highlights gaps in policy implementation and progress. As the primary contributor to emissions, generating 11.6 MtCO2e in 2021, the sector is under pressure to nearly quadruple its emissions reduction rate to meet the 2030 target of a 44% decrease from 2011 levels.

The report noted that electric vehicle (EV) adoption is significantly lagging, with only 10.5% of new car sales and 2.0% of new van sales in 2022 being electric (both trailing behind broader UK performance). This sluggish uptake underscores the need for enhanced incentives and support structures to accelerate EV adoption.

Although the rollout of charging infrastructure is progressing, with nearly 4,000 public charge points installed by 2022, the pace must dramatically increase to support a growing fleet of electric vehicles. The installation rate needs to nearly triple by the end of the decade, and significant improvements in reliability are also essential. 

The transport sector also faces challenges when it comes to car usage, which has significantly increased post-pandemic and is not far off 2019 levels. The absence of a clear strategy to achieve a 20% reduction in car-kilometres by 2030 highlights the need for more effective policies that promote sustainable transportation modes.

Furthermore, the CCC notes that efforts to decarbonize aviation and shipping are lacking. Key initiatives like the Air Departure Tax have not been implemented, and the crucial Islands Connectivity Plan (necessary for setting low-emission standards for government-managed ferries) is also delayed. These gaps point to a broader issue of inadequate strategic planning and urgency in tackling emissions from the transport sector.

In Scotland's buildings sector, the CCC identified numerous challenges in accelerating emissions reductions to meet the 2030 target of a 71% decrease from 2021 levels. Despite ambitious legislative frameworks like the Buildings (Scotland) Amendment Regulations and the proposed Heat in Buildings Bill, actual progress is lagging significantly behind the necessary pace. In 2023, domestic heat pump installations were critically low, with only 6,000 units installed - far short of the more than 80,000 annual installations needed by the decade's end.

Furthermore, the number of energy efficiency measures implemented in households has drastically declined, underscoring a severe drop in government-funded initiatives from over 71,600 in 2013 to just 7,600 in 2022. The CCC's report emphasizes a pressing need for the Scottish Government to finalize and enforce comprehensive plans not only for residential but also for non-residential buildings to ensure these sectors contribute effectively to Scotland's 2030 emissions reduction targets. The current trajectory shows that without significant enhancements in policy implementation and technological adoption, Scotland will struggle to meet its climate goals.

In Scotland's agriculture and land use sector, challenges persist in reversing recent increases in emissions, with an 11% reduction required by 2030 to meet climate targets. The sector, mostly governed by devolved policies, saw a 2021 emission level of 8.2 MtCO2e. Recent legislation, such as the proposed Agriculture and Rural Communities Bill, has been criticized for lacking detailed financial support plans for farmers and land managers, which are needed for facilitating the transition towards more sustainable practices.

Moreover, progress in environmental restoration activities like woodland creation and peatland restoration remains insufficient. In 2022/2023, only a little over eight thousand hectares of new woodland were created, far below the target of doubling this rate by the mid-2020s. Similarly, Scotland continues to fall short of its peatland restoration goals, with efforts needing to nearly triple to meet targets. These gaps highlight significant deficiencies in Scotland's strategic approach to managing agricultural and land use emissions.

Scotland’s waste sector faces an uphill battle to achieve a 55% reduction in emissions by 2030, with 2021 levels at 1.6 MtCO2e. The sector is markedly off course to meet the ambitious 70% recycling rate target by 2025, with no significant improvement in recycling rates over the last decade.

Moreover, waste incineration has more than doubled since 2011, contributing to emissions rather than reducing them. While the Circular Economy (Scotland) Bill introduced recently aims to set a legislative framework for future targets, the current measures fall short of the actions needed in recycling rates and the overall management of waste emissions. 

In Scotland's industrial sector, the CCC highlights that effective coordination with the UK Government is crucial due to the significant policy powers that are reserved at the national level. The sector, which emitted 9.7 MtCO2e in 2021, is tasked with reducing emissions by 25% by the year 2030. While there has been noteworthy progress in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), the CCC points out that efforts in other areas of industrial decarbonization have been minimal.

The Circular Economy Bill, designed to facilitate reductions in industrial emissions, acknowledges the need for enhanced efficiency in resource use, especially in construction materials. Yet, the current measures do not sufficiently drive the needed pace of decarbonization across the broader industrial sector. More robust and comprehensive strategies are required not only to harness the potential of CCUS technologies but also to significantly scale up efforts across all aspects of industrial emissions reduction.

In the electricity supply sector, the Climate Change Committee notes that the Scottish Government has made progress, mainly driven by the phase-out of coal and increased renewable energy production. 

The report highlights that while Scotland is on track with its offshore wind capacity development, aiming for 8-11 GW by 2030, the expansion of onshore wind capacity is flagging and requires a significant acceleration. This sector’s progress is vital as it heavily influences the feasibility of reaching the zero emissions target. 

The Scottish Government's draft Energy Strategy includes ambitious plans to increase renewable capacity, but according to the CCC, a comprehensive and executable delivery plan is essential. 

The Climate Change Committee’s report also outlines critical cross-cutting issues that span multiple sectors. They note that governance has seen some improvement, with better relationships between central and local government. However, there's still a need for clearer roles and responsibilities and enhanced coordination across Scottish and UK governments and local authorities to effectively deliver climate targets.

The report also emphasizes the importance of public engagement and calls for more proactive communication and support for businesses and individuals to adopt greener practices. The CCC also emphasizes the importance of meaningful dialogue and strategic planning when it comes to the handling of industrial transitions, like the Grangemouth refinery.

How can Scotland get its climate plan back on track?

Despite Scotland's decision to abandon its 2030 climate targets, its commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2045 remains intact. To align with these enduring goals, Scotland must implement significant changes across various sectors. 

The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has laid out a series of recommendations in its report, which are vital to steer Scotland back on course. These recommendations highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and robust policy implementations to close the significant gaps in current climate actions and ensure Scotland can meet its long-term environmental commitments.

Immediate publication of Scotland’s climate plan

A major recommendation from the CCC is the urgent publication of the revised Climate Change Plan. This plan is crucial as it should detail the specific policies and actions that Scotland will implement to meet its climate targets. The delay in its publication not only hampers progress but also leaves sectors without a clear direction.

Enhancing policy measures across key sectors

Transport - The Scottish Government needs to deliver comprehensive plans that include expanding electric vehicle infrastructure, reducing vehicle kilometers, and enhancing public transport options. Clear and practical strategies are required to manage demand and shift travel modes, which are currently lacking.


Buildings - For the buildings sector, accelerating the implementation of the Heat in Buildings Bill is crucial. This includes setting enforceable timelines for transitioning to low-carbon heating systems and improving the energy efficiency of both residential and commercial properties.


Agriculture and land use - The Scottish government should provide detailed financial support mechanisms and clear guidelines that align with climate objectives. Increasing the rate of woodland creation and tripling peatland restoration efforts are necessary to meet the targets set.


Waste management - Stronger policies are needed to reverse the trend of increasing waste incineration and to boost recycling rates significantly. The enactment of the Circular Economy Bill should be expedited, and it must contain robust measures to achieve the 70% recycling target by 2025.


Industry and electricity supply - Continued support and investment in carbon capture and storage (CCUS) technologies are vital. Additionally, the government should focus on increasing the capacity for both offshore and onshore wind as part of the broader strategy to decarbonize the electricity supply.

Cross-sectoral coordination and governance

The CCC’s report also highlights the need for improved coordination between different government bodies and clearer governance structures to ensure that climate policies are effectively implemented. This includes setting precise roles and responsibilities and enhancing the dialogue between the Scottish Government and local authorities to align actions towards common goals.

A just transition that is fair to all sectors of society is essential. The Scottish Government must improve its public engagement strategies to ensure widespread support and participation in the transition process. This includes educating the public about the benefits of transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

The Climate Change Committee's (CCC) report on Scotland's climate progress is damning, highlighting the risk of not only failing to meet the 2030 climate targets but also the goal of achieving net zero by 2045. 

The recommendations outlined in the CCC's report are crucial and should be incorporated into Scotland’s updated climate plan - which is expected later this year. These recommendations are not just guidelines but necessitate immediate adoption to halt further lagging behind in climate action. Their implementation will be a key determinant in Scotland’s capacity to meet its climate commitments.

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In this article, we'll explore what a PCF is, its relevance in today's business environment, and the step-by-step process of conducting one.

Understanding a Product Carbon Footprint (PCF)

As global awareness about climate change heightens, businesses worldwide are adopting more eco-friendly practices. One important tool aiding this transition is the Product Carbon Footprint (PCF). But what exactly is a PCF, and why is it becoming an indispensable asset for businesses today?   

👉 In this article, we'll explore what a PCF is, its relevance in today's business environment, and the step-by-step process of conducting one.

What is a product carbon footprint (PCF)?

You've probably heard the term carbon footprint before (or corporate carbon footprint) - it's a measure of the amount of carbon dioxide (or carbon dioxide equivalent - CO2e) released into the atmosphere as a result of an individual, or company's activities. But you might not have heard the term used in the context of a product - so what exactly is a product carbon footprint (PCF)? 

A Product carbon footprint (PCF) is the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions created by a product over the entirety of its life cycle. This encompasses GHG emissions created from the extraction of raw materials used to make the product, right through to emissions associated with the product's end of life (and every stage in between). 

💡 It's worth noting that a PCF is different from a life cycle assessment (LCA). An LCA considers the environmental impacts of a product or service, whereas a PCF is solely focused on the climate impact - ie. the total greenhouse gas emissions associated with a product. 

Why are Product Carbon Footprints important? 

A product carbon footprint (PCF) helps companies quantify the GHG emissions produced or consumed during the life cycle of a product. This allows them to frame an action plan to mitigate carbon emissions and deliver efficiency savings. 

Why is this important? Climate change is the defining issue of our time. Centuries of unabated use of fossil fuels have disrupted the Earth's natural carbon cycle, resulting in a cascade of negative impacts. Global warming is not only upending weather patterns worldwide, it's also making extreme weather much more likely - heatwaves, droughts, flooding, and more intense and extreme storms are sadly becoming part of the norm.

The only way to prevent the situation from worsening further is to cut back on emissions generated. This is why calculating our carbon footprint is so important. By calculating our carbon footprint we're better able to see what activities are resulting in emissions, thereby allowing us to take targeted and effective action to reduce these emissions. 

The situation is no different when it comes to products. The products that we consume and buy all have their own carbon footprint, and it's only by calculating these emissions that companies are effectively able to reduce the environmental impact of their products - and ultimately create more sustainable goods and business models. 

So what exactly is involved with a PCF? Let's find out…

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What does a Product Carbon Footprint involve?

PCFs allow companies to better understand the climate impact of their products by calculating the emissions generated. Generally speaking, this enables organizations to: 

Analyze the different aspects of their production system and identify the biggest carbon hotspots 

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and work towards climate goals 

Increase transparency around the climate impact of their products 

However, companies will have their own specific business reasons for undertaking a PCF. Some of the most common motivations include: 

A company may want to use PCF results to analyze and ultimately reduce its harmful impacts on the environment.

Company strategy and ethos - the company's climate strategy may push for sustainability, and a PCF is an important part of this.

Employee satisfaction - employees increasingly care about working for an ethical company. Carrying out a PCF showcases a company's commitment to sustainability and transparency. 

Internal communication - by communicating the results of a PCF, a company can motivate staff and inspire further sustainability projects.

Consumers increasingly care about sustainability, which is why a PCF can be a useful marketing tool.

Client requirements - it may be the case that retailers for example necessitate climate information from suppliers. 

Competitive advantage - studies consistently show that consumers are willing to pay more for sustainable products. Using a PCF to improve the sustainability of goods therefore acts as a brand differentiator, helping companies to stand out from the competition. 

Reputation - a PCF can identify potential reputational risks, thereby allowing companies to take action to mitigate these risks before they become a big problem. 

Regulatory requirements are increasing with every passing year when it comes to the climate impact of a company. 

Regulatory compliance - Even where a company isn't currently caught by any existing regulations, the likelihood is that this will change in the future. Product Carbon Footprints also allow companies to calculate their Scope 3 emissions, which often account for a large portion of a company's emissions. 

Inflation is high and everything from the raw materials a company uses to the energy they consume is at an all-time high. PCFs can help companies to identify where efficiencies can be implemented and costs cut.  

Cost saving - high emissions are usually linked to high operational costs. By identifying where energy consumption is at its highest a company can implement actions to reduce this, thereby lowering costs (and benefiting the environment at the same time). 

Mitigating resource risks - PCFs can help to identify if any of a product's key materials hold potential supply chain risks. 

👉 It's important to set clear goals and boundaries for the PCF. Companies should take into account the business goals and aims, as well as the opinions of staff and stakeholders.  

Once the goals of the product carbon footprint have been established, the next step is to determine the scope of the analysis. There are two different approaches for calculating the impact of a product: cradle-to-gate and cradle-to-grave. Let's take a close look at how they differentiate from one another.  

Cradle-to-gate is primarily used for B2B (business-to-business) products. It measures the greenhouse gas emissions stemming from the production of the good (including the extraction of raw materials) and any other emissions associated with the product until it reaches the factory gate. 

Cradle-to-grave on the other hand is mainly used for B2C (business-to-consumer) goods. It measures the greenhouse gas emissions for the entirety of the product's life cycle - ie. all stages, including raw material production and distribution, product manufacturing, distribution and retail, product use, and even the disposal and recycling of the product. 

💡 Additional considerations include which product or products will be part of the PCF. Because performing a PCF can be time-consuming and use up valuable resources, a company may not be willing or able to include the entirety of its product portfolio. In this case, they may wish to select one or more products. Useful criteria for selecting which product to include are considerations such as: 

<table>
  <tr>
    <th>Criteria</th>
    <th>Description</th>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Product visibility</td>
    <td>Select key products with high sales numbers for which the company is best known.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Environmental impact</td>
    <td>Identify products likely to have the biggest environmental impact and that would benefit most from a Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) and improvement measures.</td>
  </tr>
  <tr>
    <td>Availability of data</td>
    <td>Choose products based on the availability of appropriate data to accurately and effectively perform the PCF.</td>
  </tr>
</table>


Step 3 is the creation of a process map. A process map is a really useful tool as it enables a company to clearly define the different processes involved in a product's life cycle. It also helps to identify the different data that will need to be collected as part of the PCF. 

A typical product process map will include the following considerations: 

What are the raw materials used in the manufacturing of the product?

Waste produced and any waste management processes arising from raw materials and packaging

How is the raw material transported from the supplier - transport mode, distance, and packaging

What manufacturing processes form part of the product's production?

What waste arises and are there any waste management processes in place? 

Once the product is complete, how is it stored, and what are the characteristics of this storage (eg. warehouse, climate-controlled, lighting, etc)? 

How is the item distributed - is it a third party provider, how are the items stored during transportation (eg. refrigerated), how is it transported, and over what distance?

Does any waste occur during storage and distribution?

Is the item sold directly or does it supply another company?

What additional materials or energy is needed to use the product - eg. electricity, water, heat, etc.? 

How is the product disposed of? Are there any specific requirements, for example, recycling?

This step is usually the most complex and time-consuming. Depending on the scope of the PCF, a large variety of different data may need to be collected. And given that a PCF involves the entire supply chain of a product, this often means obtaining data from multiple third-party sources. 

Data can essentially be split into primary and secondary sources. Primary refers to data from within the company - which is the easiest to obtain - whereas secondary sources are those that lie outside the company - which can often be more challenging to get a hold of. Where a company is unable to get a hold of certain information it may be necessary to supplement data with industry averages and approximations.

Another key distinction is that data can either be based on accounting and records, or physical information gathered. Data based on accounting and records is the easiest information to obtain as a company will be able to consult its own financial records, utility bills, or procurement specifications to obtain this information. Data based on physical information on the other hand can be much trickier as it involves things such as distances travelled, weight of materials, etc. 

The carbon footprint calculation can be a complex process. This is because it often involves a whole host of different data sources, each of which will need to be multiplied by specific emissions factors allowing for the calculation of the quantity of greenhouse gas emissions for each activity. The results are summed up to provide a total figure, which is expressed in equivalent units of carbon dioxide, representing the product's overall carbon footprint. 

Sounds complicated? Well, that's because it is. The whole process of conducting a PCF is time-consuming and complex. And in order to do it properly, companies need to dedicate time and personnel to the task. This is why many companies choose to employ a third-party expert. 

As a carbon accounting company, Greenly specialises in helping businesses navigate these complex processes. We don't just offer a service; we provide expertise in conducting detailed and accurate product life cycle assessments, making the whole process as pain-free as possible. If you're interested in finding out more about how Greenly can help you, head over to our website. 

💡 There are various standards that have been created to help quantify the CO2 balance of products and services. The most widely recognized and respected standards include: 

PSA 2050: Publicly Available Specification (PAS) 

GHG Protocol: Product Life Cycle Accounting and Reporting Standard

Once a company has calculated a product's carbon footprint, the next step is to analyze the results and implement actions that will help the company meet its goals and objectives established in Step 1.  

PCFs are highly effective in identifying emissions hotspots relating to the product's life cycle. These will, generally speaking, be the activities that the company will target in an effort to reduce emissions, improve efficiency, and minimize operational costs. 

There are many different emissions reductions actions that a company can take following a PCF to improve the sustainability of a certain product. The list below is non-exhaustive but should give you a bit of an idea as to what these might be: 

Substituting raw materials for more sustainable alternatives

Replacing machinery and production equipment with more efficient models to reduce energy consumption

Switching energy supplier or tariff to one that includes more renewable electricity sources

Investing in a fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) for product distribution

Implementing waste reduction practices and recycling processes to minimize manufacturing waste

Redesigning the product or packaging to make it more sustainable 

After all this hard work, it's likely that a company will want to communicate its emissions reductions efforts with stakeholders - this includes employees, customers, clients, suppliers, investors, etc. 

Communication of a PCF, the results, and resulting sustainability action help to drive deeper engagement with stakeholders and foster an environment of transparency.  

From a marketing perspective, it can also be a highly effective means for increasing a company's customer base, attracting investors, and differentiating the company brand from that of competitors. 

💡 The results of the PCF can also be used by a company as part of their sustainability reporting.

In the face of mounting climate challenges, understanding a Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) is not just a choice but a necessity for forward-thinking companies. Beyond the immediate aim of enhancing sustainability, a well-calculated PCF opens the door to a multitude of benefits. It positions companies for cost savings by pinpointing inefficiencies, provides a competitive advantage in a market that increasingly values eco-responsibility, and ensures alignment with evolving climate-related regulations.  

However, navigating the intricate process of PCF can be daunting. This is where specialists like Greenly step in, offering expertise to streamline the journey, transforming a complex task into a strategic advantage.

Sustainability is now a requirement for companies across all industries. With rising global expectations to minimize environmental impact and push toward a sustainable future, having the right resources to measure and cut down carbon emissions has become essential. Greenly provides a suite of sustainability services designed to help businesses take purposeful action towards achieving their environmental goals. 

Greenly equips businesses with both expertise and a robust platform to effectively manage their sustainability efforts. From emissions monitoring to strategy development, Greenly guides companies through every stage of their sustainability journey.

Through Greenly’s platform, businesses can monitor their Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, gaining an understanding of their environmental footprint and allowing them to identify hotspots. This data serves as a foundation for crafting focused strategies to reduce emissions, align with science-based targets, and meet regulatory obligations.

In addition to emissions tracking, Greenly partners with companies to create sustainability strategies. Our specialists help pinpoint key areas for improvement and provide guidance on actionable plans to reach sustainability objectives.

Reducing Scope 3 related emissions (ie. emissions related to supply chains) poses unique challenges. Greenly’s platform assists companies in identifying and addressing high-emission areas in their supply chains, working collaboratively with suppliers to drive effective and sustainable changes.

User-Friendly Platform for Sustainability Management

Greenly’s intuitive platform streamlines sustainability management, enabling businesses to track emissions, assess progress, and incorporate sustainability into daily operations. Whether your business is beginning its sustainability efforts or building on current initiatives, Greenly can support you in efficiently managing and reducing your environmental impact.

Ready to move forward sustainably? Let Greenly support your company in taking the next step toward a greener future.

After seeking opportunities to put her various creative passions to good use, she joined Greenly in mid 2022 as SEO copywriter for the U.S. blog to provide her American perspective on the climate change issues we face today.

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