According to the United Nations Environment Program, the built environment is responsible for 39% greenhouse gas emissions, making it the biggest offender when it comes to global emissions. In the journey towards net-zero, measuring and reporting greenhouse gas emissions has become increasingly important as companies strive to ultimately reduce, reuse and recycle wherever possible. However, the process of carbon reporting can be complicated and time-consuming. That’s why it’s important to consider digital tools to streamline the process, save time and make informed decisions. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right tool for the job?
We’ve compiled a checklist of key criteria to give you a head start on what to look out for when evaluating digital tools for carbon reporting:
| Criteria | Why this is important? |
| Accuracy | Does the tool use up-to-date emission factors and methodologies to provide accurate and reliable data? |
| Ease of Use | Is the tool user-friendly? Can it be easily integrated with your existing systems and workflows? |
| Customization | Does the tool meet your reporting needs? Can it be tailored to reflect changes in your business operations and regulatory requirements? |
| Reporting Capabilities | Does the tool provide robust reporting capabilities? Can it generate reports that meet the requirements of different stakeholders, such as investors, regulators, and customers? |
| Data Management | How does the tool manage data? Is it secure and compliant with data privacy regulations? |
| Technical Support | Does the tool come with technical support? Is there a dedicated team that can help troubleshoot issues and provide guidance? |
By considering these factors, companies can choose a tool that meets their individual needs and helps them achieve their reporting goals.
But why is carbon reporting so important in the first place? For one, it can help companies identify areas where they can reduce emissions and improve efficiency. By measuring their emissions, they can set targets and track their progress over time. This not only benefits the environment but can also lead to cost savings and increased competitiveness.
Carbon reporting can also help companies meet regulatory requirements and stay ahead of evolving regulations. With increasing pressure from investors, customers and regulators to address climate change, carbon reporting is becoming a must-have for companies across all industries.
Additionally, carbon reporting can be an effective tool to build trust and transparency among stakeholders. By disclosing their emissions data, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and build credibility with customers, investors and other stakeholders.
Overall, choosing the right technology for carbon reporting is critical to obtaining accurate, reliable and meaningful data. By using a digital tool that fits your specific needs and priorities, you can streamline the reporting process, save time and resources, and make informed decisions that benefit both your business and the planet.
