Last week, International Day of Climate Action took place. It is aimed at raising global awareness, encouraging urgent action to address climate change and highlights the necessity for stronger climate action policies, as well as individual and organisational contributions to further reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment.
The key objective is to mobilise communities, businesses, and governments to combat the climate crisis and work towards keeping global temperatures from rising further.
Whilst the day provides an opportunity to highlight the issues, we can act all year round.
For many organisations it is often difficult to know where to begin, so here are six steps to get started.
1. Measure Carbon Footprint
Why It Matters:
Carbon footprint measurement is the foundation for setting reduction targets and tracking progress.
How to Do It:
Use carbon accounting tools such as those from Green Circle Solutions to calculate emissions from energy use, transportation, waste, and supply chain activities.
Set a baseline by measuring Scope 1 (direct emissions) and Scope 2 (indirect emissions from purchased electricity), and gradually work toward addressing Scope 3 emissions (value chain emissions).
Best Practice:
Reporting transparently on emissions and reduction targets in line with frameworks like the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
2. Implement Energy Efficiency Initiatives
Why It Matters:
Reducing energy consumption cuts emissions and saves money.
How to Do It:
Conduct energy audits to identify inefficiencies in lighting, heating, and equipment usage.
Switch to energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting.
Install smart meters to monitor energy use.
Best Practice:
Set energy reduction goals and consider renewable energy sources like solar panels where possible.
3. Promote Low-Carbon Transportation
Why It Matters:
Transportation is a significant contributor to emissions, particularly for companies involved in logistics or employee commutes.
How to Do It:
Encourage cycling and public transport by offering incentives such as cycle-to-work schemes or subsidised travel passes.
Implement remote working policies to reduce commuting emissions.
If your business has a fleet, switch to electric or hybrid vehicles.
Best Practice:
Use route optimisation software for deliveries to reduce fuel consumption.
4. Reduce Waste and Promote Circular Economy Practices
Why It Matters:
Reducing waste not only minimises environmental harm but also cuts costs and resource use.
How to Do It:
Conduct a waste audit and implement recycling programmes for office waste.
Reduce packaging materials by opting for biodegradable or reusable options.
Work with suppliers to reduce excess inventory and food waste (for businesses in the food industry).
Best Practice:
Adopt circular economy principles by finding ways to reuse materials, repair equipment, and reduce single-use items.
5. Engage Employees in Climate Action
Why It Matters:
Empowering employees creates a culture of sustainability and ensures long-term impact.
How to Do It:
Launch climate action awareness programmes to educate employees on sustainability.
Create green teams or committees that lead internal sustainability projects like office waste reduction or energy-saving competitions.
Encourage employee volunteerism for environmental causes or tree-planting activities.
Best Practice:
Offer sustainability training programmes or carbon literacy workshops to foster climate-conscious behaviour.
6. Offset Carbon Emissions
Why It Matters:
While reduction is crucial, some emissions are unavoidable. Offsetting helps compensate for these by investing in environmental projects.
How to Do It:
Seek advice from experts like Green Circle Solutions and partner with accredited carbon offset programs like “Gold Standard” or “Verified Carbon Standard” to invest in reforestation, renewable energy, or methane capture projects.
Best Practice:
Focus on local offset projects or those that directly align with your business’s values, while ensuring that carbon offsets are supplementary to reduction efforts.
Longer term, here are three further actions to consider:
- Committing to setting science-based targets to reduce emissions in line with global climate goals.
- Collaborating with suppliers to reduce their carbon footprint, focusing on sourcing sustainably and reducing waste in the supply chain.
- Transitioning to renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or green energy contracts, to power business operations.
In summary, businesses can make a meaningful impact everyday by measuring their carbon footprint, reducing energy consumption, minimising waste, and engaging employees in sustainability efforts. These practical steps not only contribute to the global fight against climate change but also enhance business resilience and reputation in an increasingly eco-conscious market.