Scope 3 Emissions

Definition

Scope 3 EmissionsIndirect emissions across the value chain — usually a company's largest footprint.

Greenhouse-gas emissions are categorised into three scopes by the GHG Protocol. Scope 1 is direct emissions (a company's own fuel, vehicles). Scope 2 is purchased energy. Scope 3 covers everything else — supplier emissions, customer use of the product, transport, waste, business travel.

For most consumer brands Scope 3 is 70–95% of the total footprint. A serious sustainability commitment names a Scope 3 reduction target; one that ignores Scope 3 is usually greenwashing.