Definition
Scope 3 Emissions — Indirect 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.
Indirect emissions across the value chain — usually a company's largest footprint.
This term is not, by itself, proof of a certified product. Its meaning may depend on a technical definition, local rules or the boundaries of a particular claim.
Separate the question the term addresses from questions it does not answer. Material sourcing, labour conditions, chemical safety and disposal need different evidence. Catalogue labels are a starting point for checking that evidence, not a substitute for it.
| Check | Action | Limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Ask what the term means in this claim | Technical concepts and marketing promises are different |
| Boundary | Identify materials, locations and stages covered | A claim about one component cannot describe the whole lifecycle |
| Evidence | Request methods, assumptions and dated supporting documents | A claim can need evidence without having a dedicated certifier |
Indirect emissions across the value chain — usually a company's largest footprint.
Ask what the term means in this claim. Identify materials, locations and stages covered. Request methods, assumptions and dated supporting documents.