Why measure your company's CO₂ footprint?
Climate change is high on the agenda for customers, investors, and governments. Companies are increasingly being asked to map their climate impact. Measuring CO₂ is no longer a luxury; it's a necessity. It's the first step toward a more sustainable business and meeting future reporting requirements like the CSRD. In this guide, we show you how to get started; simply, practically, and without jargon.
What is a CO₂ footprint, exactly?
A CO₂ footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (expressed in CO₂ equivalents) emitted by your company. These emissions fall into three categories, also known as "scopes." For a detailed explanation, see our blog on Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions:
Scope 1: Direct emissions
These are emissions your company is directly responsible for, such as fuel use in company vehicles or machinery.
Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased energy
This includes emissions related to the generation of electricity, heat, or steam you purchase and consume.
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions
This is the broadest category. Think of business travel, employee commuting, procurement of goods and services, logistics, waste, and more.
Most companies only focus on Scope 1 and 2, but Scope 3 often contains the majority of your emissions.
Understanding all three scopes gives you a complete view of your climate impact and helps you make smarter decisions.
Why is CO₂ measurement important for your business?
1. Sustainability, CSR, and ESG policies
CO₂ measurement forms the foundation of a credible sustainability policy. It helps guide your CSR and ESG strategies and supports transparent communication. This is not just about reputation—it’s increasingly a requirement in tenders and partnerships.
A footprint report also helps increase internal transparency. It shows your company takes responsibility and is committed to action. Especially in the context of sustainable business practices, CO₂ insights are essential.
2. Financing and investors
More and more investors see sustainability as a prerequisite. According to McKinsey, ESG performance is becoming central to financing decisions. Without clear CO₂ data, you may not qualify for many types of funding.
Banks and funding agencies increasingly demand concrete sustainability data. A CO₂ analysis can make or break your financing application.
3. Save costs
By measuring emissions, you identify inefficiencies: unnecessary energy use, travel, or supply chain waste. Cutting CO₂ often goes hand in hand with cutting costs.
Example: If business flights make up a large portion of your Scope 3 emissions, switching to rail or hybrid meetings can lower both your footprint and your expenses.
4. Reputation and market position
Customers expect companies to take responsibility. Transparent reporting makes you more appealing as a supplier or partner. According to Harvard Business Review, both consumers and B2B buyers want companies to act on climate issues.
A clear footprint report and visible progress improve your credibility—and give you an edge over less transparent competitors.
How does CO₂ measurement work in practice?
At Regreener, we make measuring CO₂ simple. With our own CO₂ measurement software, you can quickly and clearly map your emissions. Whether you're just starting or already collecting data, the tool provides instant insight. In additition, we recommend to follow a 5-step process.
What does a CO₂ measurement cost?
Costs depend on your organization's size and the complexity of your data flows. Regreener’s scalable platform allows you to start small and expand later. Contact us for a custom quote.
What data do you need for a CO₂ measurement?
You’ll need data on energy use (gas, electricity), mobility (cars, public transport, flights), procurement (suppliers, materials), and waste. Our software and consultants help you gather this efficiently.
Gather relevant data
Think of utility bills, transport logs, supplier info, and waste records. Our tool guides you step by step and explains what to collect.
Analyze using our software
The tool converts your inputs into CO₂ equivalents and categorizes them into Scopes 1, 2, and 3. You get a breakdown per department or activity.
Get expert support if needed
Need help? Our consultants are here to guide you and add valuable insights. We also help interpret your results and set priorities.
Use the results
Use the report to set reduction targets, report to stakeholders, or integrate into ESG disclosures. You can also use it in tenders or customer communications.
Want to know exactly how a CO₂ assessment works? This step-by-step guide explains it al.
Common mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Only measuring Scope 1 and 2
You miss the bigger picture. Scope 3 is where most emissions often lie.
No structure or overview
Many companies rely on spreadsheets or rough estimates. Without a tool, you lack clarity. Our software fixes that.
Lack of internal support
CO₂ tracking isn't a solo task. Involve teams early to get better data and commitment.
No follow-up
Measurement is just the start. You need to take action based on the data.
Trying to do everything at once
You don’t need to fix everything immediately. Focus on major emission sources first. Small steps can already make a big impact.
From measurement to action
A CO₂ measurement is only useful if you act on it. Set clear goals, communicate internally and externally, and use your insights to drive smart decisions. At Regreener, we help businesses every step of the way. From quick wins to long-term climate strategies.
We assist with reduction planning, stakeholder reporting, and communications. That way, you create impact and build internal momentum.
Curious where your company stands? Book a free intake session.
Conclusion: Start measuring your CO₂ footprint today
Measuring your CO₂ footprint isn’t complicated. It’s a smart step toward future-proofing your business. With the right tools and support, you can move from insight to action.
CO₂ measurement isn’t a goal; it's a means to an end.
Looking for extra info?
Read our ultimate guide on CO2 measurement for business or explore our FAQ guide
