Why it is important to create an emissions reduction strategy?
An emissions reduction strategy can serve many purposes:- It sets out specific timeframes and identifies responsible individuals for each emission reduction initiative. This ensures that initiatives do not fall under the radar, are being continuously tracked and monitored, and are implemented by the timeframe set out.
- It identifies the key emission reduction areas for the organisation. Without a cohesive strategy, it can be overwhelming to narrow down potential opportunities.
- Under some carbon neutral certification programs (e.g. Climate Active), it is required for an organisation to implement and track emission reduction initiatives.
- It creates a tangible roadmap to ensure that your organisation is able to reduce emissions over time.
A key aspect of carbon neutrality is to reduce emissions as much as possible before purchasing offsets. Furthermore, as more organisations set carbon neutral targets and aim to neutralise their impact through carbon offsetting, the amount of verified carbon offset credits available in the market will be significantly reduced. Prioritising action through emission reduction initiatives is becoming imperative.
Further, as the race to meet The Paris Agreement intensifies and as organisations look to achieve net zero Science Based Targets, emissions reduction initiatives are becoming an integral part of sustainability strategy. Going forward, all organisations will need to identify and track reduction opportunities in a meaningful way to ensure that progress is being achieved and targets are being met.