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Getting started with emissions measurement

Getting started with carbon accounting can feel like a challenge. Deciding on the resources, working through uncertainty and overwhelm can present many barriers for organisations. 

Our Founder Hayley Morris launched Impact Sustainability fifteen years ago. After working with a diverse range of organisations to measure and reduce their emissions over this amount of time, Hayley has vast experience, from helping people on the ground to get started on their data collection journey through to developing mature net zero strategies. 

Mandatory climate reporting

In the face of escalating climate concerns and forthcoming mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting legislation under the Commonwealth Climate Disclosure policy, Australian enterprises stand at a critical moment. The imperative for businesses to measure and understand their GHG emissions has never been more relevant. This isn’t just about compliance; it’s about taking a proactive stance in a rapidly evolving corporate landscape where sustainability is increasingly becoming a benchmark for success. 

Our team interviewed several climate experts when developing our Climate Literacy Training, including Hayley, on the importance of getting started. These leaders from Intrepid Travel, Climateworks and had similar words of encouragement.

Hayley recommends while getting started can feel like an administrative process, it’s crucial for businesses to take the time to consider their overarching strategy. ‘Don’t rush into action without first understanding what is important to your organisation’. 

If you’re a travel company, it’s likely your staff may be taking a lot of trips by plane, which will be important to capture and consider reducing. If you’re a software company, you may want to focus on the electricity your business is using, your IT service spend, and where your data is hosted. 

The Importance of Getting Started interview

By carefully considering your priorities and goals, businesses can better operationalise your net-zero strategy and environmental impact.

For leaders and operations managers, the task ahead in achieving net zero is clear but complex. Measuring GHG emissions accurately lays the groundwork for not only adhering to legal mandates but also unlocking strategic advantages. It offers a lens through which companies can assess and optimise their operational efficiencies, reduce energy consumption, and lower costs. Moreover, it positions businesses as leaders in sustainability, enhancing brand reputation and stakeholder trust in an era where consumers and investors are gravitating towards environmentally responsible companies.

Gain a competitive advantage

As the Australian government tightens environmental regulations, the ability to navigate and lead in this new norm will distinguish the market leaders from the followers. Understanding and reducing your company’s carbon footprint is no longer optional; it’s a strategic imperative that drives long-term sustainability and competitive advantage.

‘Engaging people and driving cultural change within organisations poses significant challenges’, says Hayley. Working with your internal stakeholders and any suppliers who will be able to provide you the data you need will be crucial to your success. Once you have the systems in place, emissions measurement will become a part of your BAU.

If you’re ready to start or need some help with your strategy, we’re here to help.