When we hear the word “Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions”, we immediately imagine factories and gas guzzling vehicles but in reality this also includes how we dispose of our waste or your daily commute to the office. GHG Accounting is a tool that can be used by businesses to account for all of these emissions. It is more than just a sustainability buzzword, it’s a crucial first step in understanding, managing, and ultimately reducing a company’s carbon footprint. At its core, GHG accounting involves measuring and identifying where emissions come from, so that informed, targeted actions can be taken to reduce them. Yet, many businesses still see it as a low priority often due to common misconceptions.
One of the biggest myths is that GHG accounting only concerns sustainability teams. In reality, it touches every part of an organization. From HR and admin to procurement and operations, every department plays a role in shaping a company’s emissions. It’s not just about what happens in the office. Employee commuting, business travel, company vehicles, and even how products are used and disposed of after sale all contribute to a company’s carbon footprint.
Another misconception is that small companies don’t need to worry about GHG accounting because their impact is too minor. While it’s true that large corporations have a significant role to play, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are also part of the bigger picture. Every emission, regardless of where it comes from, adds to our current state of global warming. That means every organization, big or small, has a responsibility to understand and manage its emissions.
Drink Sustainability Communications, for example, has taken proactive steps by partnering with Basecheck to measure and analyze their GHG emissions. This collaboration reflects how even smaller organizations can lead by example in climate accountability. Their upcoming GHG report will offer insights into how operations affect their emissions over the years. Stay tuned for its release to see how meaningful climate action can begin with awareness and the right partnerships.
GHG accounting isn’t just about environmental responsibility, it’s also a smart business move. By identifying where emissions come from, companies can uncover opportunities to adopt more energy efficient practices. These transitions often lead to cost savings, whether through reduced energy bills, streamlined operations, or more sustainable supply chains.
GHG accounting is often underestimated, but it’s a powerful tool that helps businesses become more aware of their operations and uncover areas for improvement. By tracking emissions, companies can identify inefficiencies, reduce waste, and adopt more cost-effective practices across all departments, and not just with their sustainability teams. It’s not just about environmental responsibility. It’s about working smarter. Beyond the financial benefits, companies that take climate action seriously also build credibility and trust. Today’s customers, clients, and even investors are increasingly drawn to businesses that demonstrate genuine environmental commitment. GHG accounting encourages resource efficiency, supports long-term savings, and fosters a culture of accountability. In the end, it benefits both the planet and the business.
