Step 2: Choose a Carbon Footprint Calculator / ESG Management Platform

Cost
LOW
Cost
MEDIUM
Cost
HIGH
EFFORT
low
EFFORT
medium
EFFORT
HIGH
IMPACT
low
IMPACT
MEDIUM
IMPACT
HIGH

To compile all the data for company level reporting, you will need to choose a methodology and build or use an existing carbon footprint calculator or ESG Management Platform. There are free software tools available online to help your company understand and calculate the emissions from its own operations, as well as ESG Management Platforms.

Here is an overview of the criteria to consider before choosing which tool to use:

1/ Reporting standards and methodologies

Depending on your reporting objectives, you may need to choose a specialised tool that allows you to follow standards for regulatory compliance (e.g. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol) or to integrate your carbon footprint management into a broader sustainability reporting, such as ISO management.

2/ Training and certification

It is important to take the time to be properly trained on the chosen tool. You will need to check what type of training is available.

Please note that:

  • Your carbon footprint methodology must cover all direct and indirect emissions (at least Scope 1 & 2 in the first year) and include an action plan for reduction.
  • It must be carried out by a trained professional in order to be certified.

To take your journey further, it is advisable to have a trained project leader in-house or to be accompanied by specialists.

See some online calculators below and more on The Matcha Initiative toolbox. Many ESG Management apps are also now available. Some are listed below in the suppliers section and more in our supplier directory.

500 GtCO2

is our remaining global carbon emissions budget under a 1.5°C target scenario
(IPCC's estimate)

50 GtCO2

is our annual global amount of carbon emissions - sadly, still increasing every year
(IPCC's estimate)

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Suggested list of free online calculators with pre-set embedded emission factors, guidelines and training to help you start your carbon footprint inventory:

- Calculation Tools from the GreenHouse Gas Protocol  (GHG Protocol). They have a whole range of calculators. Choose the ones adapted to your activities.

- Simplified greenhouse gas emissions calculator from US EPA

- UN climate change calculator for organisations, from UN Climate Change Agency

- CERT from Global Compact Network Singapore, a recommended tool to start with in Singapore. Free for CPLC & GCNS members.

Some Specific Calculators:

- UN Climate Change Calculator for Events

- Website Carbon Footprint Calculator, from Wholegraim Digital