TL;DR
More and more businesses need to map out their CO2 emissions, whether it’s to cut their carbon footprint, comply with regulations (like CSRD), or strengthen their sustainability policy. Calculating CO2 is the crucial first step. We explain how CO2 calculation works, why it matters, and how you can get started right now. Use our free tool for a quick and easy CO2 calculation.
Ready to start measuring? Use our free CO2 Calculator now. You can find it at the bottom of the page.
What is a CO2 calculation and why is it essential?
A CO2 calculation quantifies the emission of all greenhouse gases (expressed in CO2 equivalents, or CO2e) resulting from your company’s activities (transportation, energy, production, etc.). It includes CO2, methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N2O), all converted into a single CO2e value.
For companies and organizations, there are several reasons to calculate their CO2 emissions:
- Gain insight into your CO2 emissions: Understanding your emissions helps you identify where your biggest impact lies. 
- Plan CO2 reduction: Only by knowing your sources of emissions can you implement targeted reduction measures. 
- Comply with reporting obligations: Increasing regulations in the EU require transparency about emissions. 
- Strengthen your sustainability image: Customers, investors, and partners value transparency and climate action. 
- Prepare for future CO2 legislation: Think of CO2 pricing or emissions trading systems. 
The method: how CO2 is calculated (GHG Protocol Scopes)
CO2 calculations typically use emission factors. An emission factor indicates the amount of CO2e emitted per unit of activity. For example:
- Burning 1 liter of diesel = approx. 2.66 kg CO2e 
- 1 kWh Dutch (grey) electricity = approx. 0.4 kg CO2e 
- 1 ton of sea freight transport = approx. 15 kg CO2e 
These factors are often sourced from reliable databases such as the IPCC, national databases or industry organizations.
According to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, CO2 emissions are typically categorized into three scopes:
- Scope 1 emissions: Direct emissions, for example from company-owned vehicles or installations. 
- Scope 2 emissions: Indirect emissions from purchased energy. 
- Scope 3 emissions: Other indirect emissions, for example from suppliers, transport, or employee commuting. 
A complete CO2 calculation takes all these scopes into account.
Want a deep dive into the difference? Click here to learn more about Scope 1-2-3 emissions.

To illustrate, here's how a company calculates emissions from energy and transport:
- 100,000 kWh electricity (grey): 100,000 x 0.4 = 40,000 kg CO₂e (Scope 2) 
- 50,000 liters diesel: 50,000 x 2.66 = 133,000 kg CO₂e (Scope 1) 
- Total Emissions: 173,000 kg CO₂e (or 173 tons). 
Next steps: What to do after your CO2 calculation
A CO2 calculation is the starting line, not the finish line. It is the necessary foundation for:
- CO2 Reduction Plans: Implementing energy efficiency, electrification, or sustainable mobility policies. 
- CO2 Offsetting: Compensating unavoidable emissions through certified climate projects. 
- Reporting: Providing transparent data to stakeholders, investors, and regulators. 
- Compliance: Meeting legal obligations and preparing for future climate policies. 
Calculate your footprint with Regreener’s CO2 Calculator for Businesses
Calculating your emissions gives you control over your climate impact. Whether you're making initial measurements or performing detailed Scope 3 analyses, measuring is knowing.
At Regreener, we offer businesses practical tools, clear reporting, and effective compensation solutions. Our proprietary carbon management tool makes performing a full CO2 calculation simple and accurate, regardless of your company's complexity.
Stop estimating, start calculating. Use our CO2 Calculator for Businesses below to get started. 
Looking for extra info?
Explore our FAQ guide.





