In this article, we’ll explain how the wildfires in L.A. started, how they impact society, and how the city of Los Angeles can move forward.

What Should We Learn from the Los Angeles Wildfires?

In early January 2025, two major Los Angeles wildfires broke out – in the Palisades and Eaton areas of the infamous Southern Californian city.

California is no stranger to wildfires and its deleterious effects, having experienced one of the most devastating wildfires of all time back in November of 2018 – where many celebrities including Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth lost their homes. 

👉 However, these recent Los Angeles wildfires have highlighted the growing concern for rising temperatures – and how even large cities such as Los Angeles may find these natural disasters becoming unsustainable as we hurdle toward a warming planet.

The Los Angeles wildfires started on January 7th 2025, with two major wildfires occurring in the area – including in the Palisades and Eaton neighborhoods. The main cause for these wildfires

💡 As of January 13th, 2025 – the total amount of area burned from the Los Angeles wildfires is greater than the city of Paris itself, with nearly 60 square miles of land falling subject to the wildfires, where Paris is only around 40 square miles.

In fact, the Palisades fire alone encompasses a whopping 37 square miles – making it as large as cities like Paris and San Francisco themselves. This reveals the colossal impact that not only the Palisades and Eaton neighborhoods of L.A. must endure, but the surrounding areas in Los Angeles county – as an air quality alert was issued for Los Angeles county in the midst of the wildfires.

“The Los Angeles wildfires occurring at the start of 2025 alone demonstrate how none of us are safe from the erratic effects of climate change – with over 105,000 residents of Los Angeles being ordered to evacuate and 24 people having lost their lives from these wildfires.”

Los Angeles Wildfires Latest: 24 dead in Southern California fires - Jan. 12 update

24 people have died in connection to the Los Angeles County wildfires, the Eaton Fire and the Palisades Fire.

#wildfire #california #news #losangeles 

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Los Angeles Wildfires Latest: 24 dead in Southern California fires - Jan. 12 update

The most recent wildfires in Los Angeles started as a small flame, presumably from New Year’s Eve as the first initial fire was discovered on New Year’s day – originating as a New Year's Eve fire.

This was deduced from the fact that there was evidence of people staying in the area surrounding Skull Rock, which often attracts teenagers and partyers – as there was leftover glass near the scene of the first fire. 

However, it is important to remember that the Palisades and Eaton wildfires were caused by several factors – such as strong Santa Ana winds reaching up to 70 mph, which helped to spread the flames faster. Furthermore, the Southern California area has experienced an exceptionally dry season – providing optimal conditions to fuel wildfires. 

👉 In terms of wildfires in California as a whole, the impact of power lines across the state and their contribution to wildfires has been studied – with the New York Times revealing that over 3,600 wildfires have happened in California in conjunction with complications from power lines.

What impact did the Los Angeles wildfires have on residents of L.A.?

The Los Angeles community has already lost thousands of buildings and even some lives as a result of the wildfires, putting over 100,000 residents of Los Angeles in an emotionally and physically challenging position to evacuate their homes.

💡However, one of the positive impacts that the Los Angeles wildfires have had on the L.A. community is revealing that everyone will come together in times of need – with celebrities such as Demi Lovato, Lucy Hale, and the Jonas Brothers working to share GoFund Me’s and resources for people in need during the Los Angeles wildfires.

“I invite you to come to California again — to meet with the Americans affected by these fires, see the devastation firsthand, and join me and others in thanking the heroic firefighters and first responders who are putting their lives on the line” – Governor Newsom in response to Trump’s theories on the Los Angeles wildfires.

Palisades Fire – Having destroyed over 420 homes and only 13% of the wildfire having been contained as of January 13th, 2025 – this has shown to be one of the most devastating wildfires and natural disasters in the state since the wildfires from November 2018.

Eaton Fire – As of Monday, January 13th, 2025 – the Eaton wildfire has only been 27% contained. Furthermore, it has taken 16 lives, and damaged over 7,000 buildings and homes – the Eaton fires have shown to be just as consequential.

Here are some additional consequences of the Los Angeles wildfires:

Santa Ana Winds – These strong winds will not only further fuel the existing wildfires in Southern California, but will also subject people to further health consequences such as asthma, bronchitis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Economic Losses – The recent wildfires in Los Angeles have destroyed thousands of buildings and counting, which in turn – can lead to a spike in insurance claims and long-term effects on business success. As the state of California alone ranks as the world’s 5th largest economy, this demonstrates how consecutive and destructive wildfires could have an impact on our global economy.

Biodiversity & Vegetation – In an already dry region, the wildfires have made it more difficult for certain plants and animals to to survive in the Los Angeles area – impacting biodiversity and making L.A. more vulnerable to landslides and erosion.

Realization of Limited Resources – Most people living in California live with and accept the threat of an earthquake or wildfire, but it doesn’t mean that resources weren’t stretched thin – as emergency services were unable to help avoid the worst of the wildfires. 

Exacerbate GHG Emissions – The amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases being released as a result of burning vegetation from the Los Angeles wildfires further exacerbates the battle against climate change. 

Emotional Impact – Mass evacuations and the permanent loss of one’s home can elicit severe mental health effects such as trauma, anxiety, and depression. 

👉 Over 100,000 residents of Los Angeles were ordered to evacuate their homes – and while many people living in Southern California live with and accept this as a circumstance of living in such a warm, dry climate: it still takes an emotional and physical toll packing up all of your personal belongings and needing to flee your home.

Why are these most recent Los Angeles wildfires a greater wake up call to climate change?

Although California has experienced numerous wildfires before, the most recent wildfires in Los Angeles demonstrate how the nature of natural disasters is truly out of hand – and will only continue to grow more challenging and difficult to avoid or combat as global temperatures skyrocket. 

Here are some specific examples why the Los Angeles wildfires serve as a wake up call to fight against climate change:

Usually, January serves as the wettest month of the year in California – demonstrating how such massive and cataclysmic wildfires would only be able to occur with shifting weather patterns. 

Furthermore, the wildfires coincided with abnormally high temperatures for winter in California – highlighting how climate change is a clear indicator of these erratic wildfires. 

As wildfire season begins to become the new norm, ecosystems and surrounding communities are left with less time to recover – whether it be financially, emotionally, or environmentally. 

This allows for future wildfires to prove more destructive than the last, in the same way that falling on an already broken leg would undoubtedly be more painful. 

Wildfires contribute to excess greenhouse gas emissions with the release massive amounts of CO₂, meaning that ironically – the middle of a wildfire caused by climate change, continues to support the conditions to prolong the negative effects of climate change.

In addition to this, the loss of forests and vegetation from wildfires can result in the loss of carbon sinks – which contributes to the long-term, effects of climate change.

👉 Ultimately, these recent Los Angeles wildfires demonstrate how the accelerating impacts of climate change require our utmost attention and immediate action to elicit true change – otherwise, the consequences of such natural disasters will only be more challenging to battle.

How can you stay safe during the Los Angeles wildfires?

Staying safe during the current Los Angeles wildfires includes putting out any additional fires, keeping doors and windows closed, wearing protective clothing, and keeping in touch with family, friends, and neighbors on your current situation and needs – whether they be tangible or emotional.  

“You don’t want to open the door and get out and panic at the very last minute as the fire is approaching, because you’re not going to be able to outrun a fire.” – Daniel Berlant, Assistant Deputy Director of Cal Fire.

Here's how you can stay safe in the midst of the Los Angeles wildfires:

Stay Indoors – Residents of Los Angeles, especially with underlying health conditions, should aim to stay indoors in addition to keeping windows and doors closed – opting for the use of air conditioning to filter indoor air.

Protect Employees – The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) has implored employers to protect employees from wildfire smoke exposure. This can include requiring a short-term mask mandate for employees who work outside or allowing for remote work until the air quality improves to avoid commuters from being exposed to poor air quality.

Wear Proper Clothing – Incoming Santa Ana winds will not only make it more difficult for firefighters to put out existing fires, but could result in accidentally ingesting or inhaling fine particle matter. This means people out and about in Los Angeles should strive to wear clothing garments to protect your nose, eyes, and mouth in the coming days.

The table below will demonstrate other factors to look out for in the midst of the Los Angeles wildfires and how to stay safe:

<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; text-align: left;">
    <thead>
        <tr style="background-color: #f2f2f2;">
            <th>Factor</th>
            <th>Details</th>
            <th>How to Stay Safe</th>
        </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
        <tr>
            <td>Emotional Well-Being</td>
            <td>Wildfires can lead to stress, anxiety, and trauma. Many feel overwhelmed by the uncertainty and potential property loss.</td>
            <td>Maintain communication with loved ones, practice stress-relief techniques like deep breathing, and consider professional help if needed.</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Potential Health Side Effects</td>
            <td>Smoke inhalation can cause respiratory problems, eye irritation, and worsen conditions like asthma and heart disease.</td>
            <td>Wear an N95 mask outdoors, use air purifiers indoors, and stay informed about air quality levels through local authorities.</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Signs of a Wildfire Approaching</td>
            <td>Look out for heavy smoke, an orange or red sky, falling ash, and emergency alerts from local authorities.</td>
            <td>Prepare an evacuation plan, keep emergency supplies ready, and follow evacuation orders promptly.</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Protecting Your Home</td>
            <td>Flying embers and heat from nearby fires can ignite structures and vegetation.</td>
            <td>Clear debris and flammable materials from your property, seal vents, and use fire-resistant materials for roofing and siding if possible.</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Wildfire Preparedness</td>
            <td>Having a plan and the right resources can make evacuation smoother and reduce panic.</td>
            <td>Pack an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, medication, and important documents. Keep gas tanks full and vehicles ready.</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Staying Updated</td>
            <td>Changing wind patterns and fire behavior can escalate the situation quickly.</td>
            <td>Follow local news, weather updates, and alerts from trusted agencies like CAL FIRE or the National Weather Service.</td>
        </tr>
    </tbody>
</table>


👉 Remember, for the most up-to-date information – it is crucial to consult the information provided by your local news outlets and official sources such as the South Coast Air Quality Management District and Cal Fire.

How can the L.A. move forward from these wildfires and protect itself in the future?

In truth, the only way for the greater Los Angeles area to protect itself from wildfires in the future is to contribute in the fight against climate change – as continued dry and skyrocketing temperatures will only make wildfires worse.

Here are some ways that Los Angeles can continue to aid in the battle against global warming and move forward from the existing wildfires:

New Environmental Legislation – In existing to current climate legislation in the state, such as the incentive to ban the purchase of gasoline powered vehicles from 2035 onward to encourage Californians to drive EVs – the state could develop new laws to avoid hikers and partygoers from starting fires in remote areas, or new environmental regulations to further reduce emissions created by the state. 

Build Public Transportation System – Los Angeles is famous for its traffic, and with over 100,000 residents trying to evacuate – that traffic only becomes more jammed; subjecting everyone in a dangerous scenario. Returning to the idea of building a sufficient public transportation system for the area can help to reduce the GHG emissions created by cars and also provide a safe, alternative evacuation method for residents.

Use AI & Technology – In terms of future wildfires, California can utilize AI and smart sensors to collect passive data on real-time weather and fire conditions to improve emergency preparedness and planning. 

Focus on Ecosystem Restoration – In the same way that pillars serve as structural pieces for a sturdy building, ecosystem health is pivotal to help support biodiversity and mitigate the effects of climate change. Therefore, Los Angeles should dedicate ample time and resources to replant vegetation and help surrounding wildlife following the wildfires. 

Overall, the root cause of these wildfires is skyrocketing temperatures and erratic weather patterns – meaning the best way to move forward is to work towards long-term emission reduction goals, which Greenly can help with.

If reading this article on the current Los Angeles wildfires has inspired you to consider your company’s own carbon footprint, Greenly can help.

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 on how to reduce emissions, optimize energy efficiency, and more to make sure your business doesn’t contribute to devastating natural disasters. 

Learn more about Greenly’s carbon management platform here.

The UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation requires more companies to report their carbon emissions. Find out if it affects your business.

Our Guide to Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)

As businesses face increasing scrutiny over their environmental impact, compliance with the UK's Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation has become essential. SECR aims to enhance climate transparency and drive energy efficiency improvements, positioning UK companies to address both legal requirements and stakeholder expectations.

The urgency is clear: climate change not only threatens the environment but poses a significant economic risk. Swiss Re, a leading reinsurance firm, projects that without decisive action, global GDP could shrink by up to 18% by 2050. For UK businesses, this makes transparency in energy use and carbon emissions not just a regulatory obligation but a competitive advantage.

Since its introduction in 2019, SECR has transformed how companies report on energy consumption and emissions. By expanding the scope of carbon accounting and modernizing disclosure rules, it equips investors with the high-quality data they need to align financial and environmental considerations in their decisions.

👉 In this article we'll explore what the SECR is, why it was introduced, and what it means for companies operating in the UK.

What is the UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting policy (SECR)?

The UK’s Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) regulation requires certain companies - such as quoted companies, large unquoted companies, and limited liability partnerships (LLPs) - to annually report their energy emissions and Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions. 

The UK's Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy was introduced on 1 April 2019 as a major step forward in enhancing corporate accountability for energy use and carbon emissions. Designed to simplify reporting requirements while expanding their scope, SECR replaced the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme and brought many more businesses under its purview.

Unlike the CRC, which applied to fewer organizations, SECR mandates that approximately 11,900 large UK-based companies now disclose their annual energy use, carbon emissions, and any energy-efficiency measures they’ve implemented. This broader scope ensures greater transparency and incentivizes action across a wider range of industries.

SECR also aligns closely with the UK’s ambitious climate goals, including achieving net zero emissions by 2050. By requiring companies to report on their energy efficiency efforts, SECR supports the national transition to a low-carbon economy and provides investors with critical data to guide sustainable decision-making.

It’s important to note that SECR operates alongside, rather than replacing, other emissions reporting requirements, including:

The Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS): Focuses on energy audits and recommendations for large businesses.

Climate Change Agreements (CCA) Scheme: Provides tax benefits for energy-intensive industries.

EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS): Targets carbon trading for certain sectors.

Mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) reporting for publicly quoted companies.

By modernizing and unifying reporting requirements, SECR makes it easier for businesses to integrate emissions tracking into their sustainability strategies, helping the UK move closer to its climate commitments.

Find out in detail what the UK Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting SECR is, its background, who needs to comply with it and various other aspects of the legislation including assurance, reporting period and disclosure methodology.

UK Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting SECR explained

The SECR aims to create harmony between fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship. Through carbon accounting, it enables businesses to trim costs, boost transparency via carbon disclosures, and enhance energy efficiency. In turn, this helps companies curtail their greenhouse gas emissions and combat the repercussions of climate change by endorsing energy-efficient practices. 

Furthermore, the SECR fosters greater awareness regarding the implications of climate change and the intricacies of energy expenditure within organizations. It not only sheds light on the monetary aspect of energy but also enlightens stakeholders about a company's role in climate change. 

For investors, the data on carbon emissions and energy usage that the SECR mandates is invaluable. As companies focus on augmenting energy efficiency and diminishing carbon emissions, investors are equipped with sharper insights. This helps investors to make more informed investment choices in a world gravitating towards sustainability. 

The SECR impacts an estimated ​​11,900 companies incorporated in the UK. These businesses fall under three main categories. All companies that meet the following criteria are obligated to report their emissions and energy consumption unless they fall under one of the exemptions:  

Quoted companies of any size: These are companies listed on a public exchange. Such companies are already subject to existing greenhouse gas reporting regulations, so the 2019 update doesn’t significantly affect them. 

Large unquoted companies: The term "large", as defined by the Companies Act 2006, applies to a company that fulfills at least two of the following criteria:

More than £18m in total assets on the balance sheet

Large limited liability partnerships (LLPs): LLPs are considered to be large where they fulfill the same criteria outlined above as per the Companies Act 2006.

Charities and not-for-profit organizations: Where an organization meets the Companies Act 2006 definition of large it will also fall under the scope of SECR, even where it operates under a charitable structure.

Public bodies: Public bodies do not fall under the scope of SECR, however, they may have other carbon reporting obligations. It’s worth noting that not all organizations providing a public service are officially defined as such, and therefore some bodies owned by the NHS or a UK University may still fall under the scope of SECR.

SECR includes several possible exemptions, these include: 

If you're reporting at a group level and a subsidiary wouldn't be subject to SECR when reporting individually, you have the discretion to exclude the energy and carbon data about that subsidiary.

If your organization consumes 40MWh or less energy during the financial year, it is deemed a "low energy user". This designation means you're not obligated to include all the specifics typically required in an SECR report. However, it's still essential to tally the organization's total energy consumption (covering gas, electricity, and transport fuel) to ensure you're below the set threshold. In such instances, your directors' report should clarify that this is the rationale behind the absence of a comprehensive SECR report.

If obtaining your company's energy and carbon details is either commercially confidential or genuinely unfeasible, you may seek an exemption based on these reasons. An accompanying explanation will be necessary.

<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5">
    <thead>
        <tr>
            <th>Company Type</th>
            <th>Criteria</th>
            <th>Reporting Obligations</th>
            <th>Exemptions</th>
        </tr>
    </thead>
    <tbody>
        <tr>
            <td>Quoted Companies</td>
            <td>Listed on a UK stock exchange</td>
            <td>Must report energy use and efficiency measures globally.</td>
            <td>None</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Unquoted Companies</td>
            <td>Meets two of the following: turnover &gt; £36M, balance sheet &gt; £18M, &gt; 250 employees</td>
            <td>UK-based energy use and efficiency measures only.</td>
            <td>Exempt if energy use is &lt; 40 MWh per year</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs)</td>
            <td>Same as unquoted companies: meets two of the following: turnover &gt; £36M, balance sheet &gt; £18M, &gt; 250 employees</td>
            <td>UK-based energy use and efficiency measures only.</td>
            <td>Exempt if energy use is &lt; 40 MWh per year</td>
        </tr>
    </tbody>
</table>


How does it work for group and subsidiary-level reporting?

In some cases, a group-level report is required. A group-level report should contain the energy use and carbon emissions data for the parent group and all subsidiaries. 

As outlined above under the section on exemptions, if a subsidiary would not otherwise be required to report under SECR independently from the group, it may omit its energy and carbon details in the group report.  

❗ Reporting companies should note that this specific guideline is treated differently than in the ESOS and the CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme. 

Note that when subsidiary companies subject to SECR have already reported their energy and carbon information in a parent’s group-level report, filing a separate energy and carbon report isn't necessary.

SECR reporting requirements vary depending on the type and size of the business or organisation. Below we’ve outlined how quoted companies, large unquoted companies, and LLPs should present their energy and carbon reporting.

Quoted companies are already required to report their Scope 1 and 2 worldwide GHG emissions. The emissions should be reported in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) covering the seven gases listed in the Kyoto Protocol. 

Companies are strongly recommended to report Scope 3 emissions if they are essential to business operations, however, for now reporting on Scope 3 emissions is not mandatory, and is voluntary only. 

💡GHG emissions that must be reported include: carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), perfluorocarbons (PFCs), and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), and nitrogen trifluoride (NF3).

Quoted companies should also report their selected emissions intensity ratios for the current and previous years. This should be stated in their Directors' report. 

❓ Emissions intensity ratios define GHG emissions in relation to the scale of business operations. Intensity metrics help regulators compare companies’ energy efficiency with counterparts of a similar size. Examples of intensity metrics include tonnes of CO2e per sales revenue or per square meters of total floor space.

Beyond emissions, listed companies should report their annual energy use. Companies should specify both their UK energy use and their offshore energy use in other countries. 

If the first year of SECR reporting has passed, quoted companies also need to report a comparison between the current and previous reporting years.

SECR requires quoted companies to describe whether or not they implemented measures aimed at reducing carbon emissions throughout the course of the year. They should disclose a narrative description of their energy-efficient activities in their annual report, and how successful those measures have been in improving energy efficiency or reducing energy consumption.

Companies should outline the methodology used. While there is no specific recommended methodology, SECR recommends selecting one that is widely used, comprehensive, and transparent. 

Quoted companies should report these details in their Director’s Reports for financial years beginning from April 1, 2019. 

Here’s a quick SECR reporting checklist for quoted companies: 

Annual Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions (Scope 3 is optional but recommended)

Narrative report of energy efficiency measures

SECR requires large unlisted companies and large LLPs to report on the following information: 

UK energy use (including the UK offshore area) in three categories: electricity, gas, and fuel for transport.  

Associated GHG emissions from these activities should also be reported, with at least one emissions intensity ratio included.

❗ Note: When reporting transport energy use, businesses should report their direct fuel purchases for company vehicles, but there is no need to report fuel used from a third-party operator. Fuel used in flights, trains, public transport, taxi trips, freight, or shipping for services contracted to a third party is also excluded. 

Like quoted companies, large unquoted companies and large LLPs also need to provide a narrative description of their energy efficiency activities and details on the methodology they used. 

Also similar to quoted companies, large unquoted companies should provide the required information in their Directors’ Reports, or Strategy Reports alongside an explanation. 

Large LLPs should report the information in their Energy and Carbon Report (a new obligation that was brought in with SECR).  

Here’s a quick SECR reporting checklist for large unquoted companies and large LLPs: 

UK energy use for electricity, gas, and directly consumed transport fuel (includes UK offshore area)

The SECR guidelines set a foundational benchmark for successful GHG reporting to mitigate the impacts of climate change, but there's room to go beyond the basics. Here's what's additionally recommended:

Full Disclosure: Companies should share details about all significant sources of energy consumption or greenhouse gas emissions, even those not specified in the guidelines. This includes Scope 3 emissions, which are the indirect emissions that occur in a company's value chain.

Science-backed Targets: Companies should aim to align their reporting with science-based goals, such as aiming to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2100.

Future-focused Analysis: The Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) suggests companies look ahead and analyze how climate change might affect them. This involves: 

These projections should reflect potential climate-related challenges across various warming scenarios.

Risk Assessment: The TCFD encourages companies to evaluate climate risks, both direct (like storms or rising sea levels) and indirect (like changes in policies, markets, technologies, potential lawsuits, or harm to their reputation).

In certain situations, companies might find it challenging to include their energy and carbon emissions data in their annual streamlined reports. Reasons could range from facing exceptional difficulties in gathering the data to concerns that sharing such information might harm the company's interests. 

Companies choosing to withhold such data should clearly state their reasons for doing so. However, they're also expected to make efforts to fully comply in subsequent reports.

Failing to comply with SECR reporting requirements can have significant repercussions for businesses, affecting both their financial standing and reputation. Here are the key risks of non-compliance:

Non-compliance with SECR can lead to fines and enforcement actions by the UK Government. While the exact penalty depends on the nature and severity of the breach, companies that fail to submit accurate and timely reports risk facing financial sanctions. This adds an unnecessary expense that could otherwise be avoided with proper compliance. 

In today’s business landscape, transparency is critical for maintaining trust among stakeholders. Non-compliance with SECR may signal a lack of commitment to sustainability, damaging a company’s reputation with investors, customers, and employees. This can lead to lost business opportunities and decreased brand loyalty.

Missed opportunities for efficiency savings

SECR compliance often uncovers inefficiencies in energy use that, when addressed, can result in significant cost savings. Failing to report and act on this data means companies miss opportunities to reduce their operational expenses and carbon footprint, putting them at a competitive disadvantage.

Increased scrutiny from regulators and stakeholders

Non-compliance can attract unwanted attention from regulatory authorities, leading to audits or more stringent oversight. Additionally, sustainability-conscious investors may question a company’s reliability and commitment to addressing climate risks.

To avoid these risks, companies should ensure their compliance processes are robust and aligned with SECR requirements. The UK Government’s official SECR guidelines provide detailed instructions on reporting obligations and methodologies, which businesses should follow closely. Companies unsure about their compliance status can seek expert advice to streamline their reporting processes and minimize risks.

For further information and support on SECR compliance, consider exploring the following resources:

UK Government SECR Guidance: The official guidance provides detailed information on SECR requirements, reporting methodologies, and compliance procedures.

Government Resources on Energy Efficiency

Department for Energy Security & Net Zero: Offers resources and support for businesses aiming to improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

Carbon Trust: Provides advice and support on energy efficiency and carbon reduction strategies.

Greenly’s Services Related to Emissions Reporting

Greenly Carbon Management Solutions: Discover how Greenly can assist your business with emissions tracking and sustainability reporting.

Book a Demo: Learn how Greenly's platform simplifies carbon accounting and reporting.

While SECR is a UK-specific regulation, it may apply to American companies with significant operations or subsidiaries in the UK that meet the criteria for reporting. For example, a US-based parent company with a UK subsidiary listed on a UK stock exchange or one that qualifies as a "large company" under SECR thresholds would be required to comply. 

These businesses must report UK-based energy use and carbon emissions to meet SECR obligations. Understanding international regulations like SECR is crucial for American companies operating globally, as these frameworks often influence investor expectations and align with broader sustainability reporting trends.

Why companies should consider Scope 3 reporting under SECR with Greenly?

SECR only mandates Scope 1 and Scope 2 reporting, however, it is strongly recommended that companies also adopt Scope 3 reporting. Let’s take a closer look at the different Scopes and what they encompass below: 

The GHG Protocol defines the three emissions reporting Scopes as follows: 

Scope 1 covers the direct GHG emissions from a company’s operations. 

Scope 2 refers to GHG emissions from purchased energy and electricity from a utility used in the course of business operations. 

Scope 3 encompasses the broader value chain emissions for both upstream and downstream activities.

Scope 3 emissions are an important part of most companies’ carbon footprint, making up around 80% of their total carbon emissions. While there is currently no requirement to report on Scope 3 emissions, this may change in the future.

❓Scope 3 emissions data is more challenging for companies to collect, as they aren't created by the company themselves. It includes the supply chain emissions created when manufacturing and shipping products, as well as the emissions caused by the end-users when consuming the products, goods, or services. 

👉 To find out more about the different Scopes, why not read our article on the topic. Or if you'd like to learn more about carbon accounting take a look at our blog. 

Working with specialized carbon accounting experts like Greenly can improve the quality of your reporting across all 3 Scopes, so why not get in touch with us today? 

At Greenly, we specialize in making carbon management accessible and actionable for businesses of all sizes. Our suite of carbon management services is designed to help your company effectively measure, track, and reduce emissions, enabling you to achieve sustainability goals while staying ahead of regulatory requirements like SECR.
Here’s what we offer:

 Emissions Tracking
Greenly’s intuitive platform tracks Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions across your operations, providing you with real-time insights into your carbon footprint.

Carbon Accounting
From understanding your emissions data to identifying reduction opportunities, Greenly equips your business with the tools you need to take action on climate impact.

Supply Chain Visibility
Our tools help you analyze and reduce emissions across your supply chain, with access to sustainable supplier recommendations to make greener choices.

Customised Decarbonisation Pathways
Create tailored action plans aligned with science-based targets to meet your long-term sustainability objectives.

With Greenly, sustainability is not just a goal – it’s an achievable and measurable journey. Our mission is to empower businesses to reduce emissions, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen their commitment to a sustainable future.

👉 Request a demo today to discover how Greenly can help you take the next step in your carbon management journey.

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Greenly - The go-to carbon accounting platform for your business!

In this article we’ll explore the process of ocean acidification, its causes and what can be done to prevent further harm to our delicare marine ecosystems.

Ocean Acidification: Causes, Issues and Solutions

The catastrophic effects of increasing levels of carbon dioxide are widely known and publicized - global warming and climate change have been described as the challenges of the century. But many people have not heard about another highly concerning impact of rising CO2 levels - the acidification of the Earth's oceans. 

Ocean acidification is a relatively new term, and it wasn't until the early 2000s that scientists first became aware of its threat to marine life. The effects of a more acidic ocean are extensive and we're only just beginning to see its impact.

👉 In this article we'll explore the process of ocean acidification, its causes, and what can be done to prevent further harm to our delicate marine ecosystems.

The Industrial Revolution was a period of technological and scientific development that transformed societies across Europe and North America. However, this advancement came at a cost since it relied on the use of greenhouse gas-emitting fossil fuels. The concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere (ie. atmospheric carbon dioxide) has been on the rise ever since, upsetting the Earth's carbon cycle and disturbing its natural equilibrium.

The effects of this are catastrophic with global temperatures rising resulting in alarming changes to our climate, but it's also resulting in something that's not as widely publicized or talked about - something called ocean acidification.  

Well, in order to understand ocean acidification, you first need to understand the carbon cycle, so let's start by taking a quick look at this process in more detail. 

As carbon emissions change the chemistry of the seas, ocean acidification threatens marine life and human livelihoods. How worried should you be about climate change’s so-called “evil twin”?

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00:00 The other carbon problem
00:50 How does the ocean’s deepest point reveal its past?
02:55 Why are baby oysters dying? 
04:08 Is the ocean acidic?
05:21 What is causing ocean acidification?
06:01 Why are corals dissolving? / Will deep sea ecosystems survive?
08:35 A threat to human livelihoods
10:42 What are the ‘potato chips of the sea’?
12:04 What is the solution? 

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Watch our film to understand how carbon enters the ocean: https://econ.st/3DXNkUT 
  
Can the ocean solve climate change? https://econ.st/3SvswIy

Climate change: what is ocean acidification?

The carbon cycle is the process by which carbon moves around the Earth's atmosphere. 

It consists of various carbon-emitting processes (for example breathing which releases carbon dioxide) which are in turn balanced out by carbon sinks (carbon sinks include the Earth's oceans, forests, vegetation, and soil). 

👉 The carbon cycle is a finely tuned process that has a natural balance, however, human activity has interfered with this equilibrium and now it is dangerously out of sync.  

The industrial revolution fuelled advancement, however, it also resulted in huge amounts of excess carbon being poured into the atmosphere through the burning of fossil fuels - a practice that hasn't stopped ever since.  

This excess carbon has nowhere else to go except into the Earth's atmosphere, which in turn traps heat and results in global warming. However, global warming isn't the only effect of rising levels of carbon dioxide.

As we've touched on, carbon sinks are part of the carbon cycle and help to counteract the excess carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere.

👉 The world's oceans are the biggest carbon sinks and absorb around 30% of the carbon dioxide that is released into the atmosphere.  

As we continue to release ever more carbon dioxide, the levels absorbed by the oceans also continue to rise.

It would be great if the excess carbon dioxide was simply absorbed by the ocean without any side effects, but sadly this is not the case - the excess carbon dioxide impacts the chemical composition of the seawater.  

When carbon dioxide is absorbed by the ocean water, a series of chemical reactions result which ultimately cause the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water to increase. The result of this is that the seawater becomes more acidic and levels of carbonate ions are decreased.  

For context, before the Industrial Revolution, the ocean's PH level was 8.2, which means that it is actually more alkaline than acidic. However, the rising levels of carbon dioxide in the water are gradually altering this PH balance and we're seeing a shift towards more acidic water - the current average PH level of the world's oceans is 8.05 on the PH scale.  

This change may sound small and insignificant, but it's having huge repercussions for the world's oceans which are a finely balanced ecosystem and highly sensitive to chemical changes. The change in PH level actually equates to an increase in acidity of 40%, and by the end of the century, the world's oceans are on track to be 150% more acidic than current levels.  

👉 Human activity is quite literally changing the chemical composition of our oceans.  

If you're thinking that ocean acidification doesn't sound like good news - you'd be right. But up until relatively recently, scientists weren't aware of the effects. 

Scientists have been tracking the ocean PH for over 30 years, however, it wasn't until the early noughties that scientists became aware of the biological impact, and the term ocean acidification was first coined. So what exactly are the repercussions of ocean acidification?   

Carbonate ions are a key building block in ocean water, and falling levels can make it difficult for marine organisms such as coral and plankton to form shells and skeletons.

What's more, is that it may even cause some existing shells to dissolve. Let's take a closer look at the effects on some of the individual marine species that are the most susceptible to the changing chemical composition of the Earth's oceans. 

Coral reefs house coral animals and provide a habitat for a huge variety of different species. Unfortunately, they're particularly vulnerable to ocean acidification because they're formed from calcium carbonate. 

Ocean acidification not only corrodes existing coral structures, it also slows the development of new skeletons and results in weaker coral structures that are more vulnerable to damage and erosion. 

However, the severity with which different coral species will be affected varies - some corals are proving to be rather resilient when it comes to ocean acidity and can produce their skeletons with bicarbonate instead of the carbonate ions, and other corals can temporarily survive without a skeleton.

👉 Over the coming decades we'll certainly see a change in the composition of coral reefs around the world. Since coral reefs form an important part of many marine ecosystems, this will also have profound effects on the many different organisms that rely on them for their survival.  

Ocean acidification is bad news for shellfish such as mussels, clams, and sea urchins. As is the case with coral reefs, most shellfish rely on carbonate ions to form their shells.  

👉 Research shows that by the end of the century, the shells of mussels and oysters will decrease by around 25% and 10% respectively. Weaker calcium carbonate shells mean that these creatures are more at risk of being crushed or eaten. 

And it's not just their shells that suffer. The fibers that mussels use to attach themselves to rocks are also impacted by ocean acidification - the impact being that mussels can't attach to rocks as securely. 

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