Carbon Emission Policies Archives - Green Initiative - For a Climate and Nature Positive Planet

The European Union Raises the Bar on Climate Claims: Why Tackling Greenwashing is Key to Empowering Consumers for a Sustainable Future

The European Union has taken a significant leap forward in its commitment to a sustainable future with the European Parliament’s adoption of the Directive on empowering consumers for the green transition (EmpCo Directive). This groundbreaking legislation amends the Directives on unfair commercial practices (2005/29/EC) and consumer rights (2011/83/EU) to establish stricter requirements for environmental and sustainability-related advertising, marking a critical step in the fight against greenwashing and towards a culture of transparency and accountability to support the green transition and the circular economy. Clarifying Environmental Claims At the heart of the EmpCo Directive is the introduction of limits on making generic environmental claims, and on the use of sustainability labels. This aims to ensure that when products claim to be “green”, “eco-friendly” or “ecological”, the claims are substantiated and meaningful, cutting through the fog of vague or misleading marketing. In particular, the Directive targets climate claims such as “climate friendly” or “climate neutral”, requiring them to be supported by clear, objective, publicly available and verifiable corporate commitments and targets, set out in a detailed and realistic implementation plan that shows how these commitments and targets will be achieved and how resources will be allocated, and regularly verified by an independent third party, with the results made available to consumers. Combatting Greenwashing One of the most powerful aspects of the EmpCo Directive is its ‘blacklist’ of unfair commercial practices. Practices that are considered inherently unfair include 1) the use of sustainability labels that are not based on a certification scheme or established by public authorities, 2) the use of generic environmental claims that are not based on evidence of recognized excellent environmental performance, and 3) the claim that a product has a neutral, reduced or positive environmental impact in terms of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions based on GHG offsetting. By eliminating deceptive practices from the outset, this will make it easier for consumers to trust the sustainability claims they encounter, while ensuring a level playing field for companies. This provides clarity and transparency for those companies that already follow international best practice in sustainability certification. Implementing the Change The EmpCo Directive sets out a timetable for EU Member States to transpose these rules into national law, with full implementation expected by mid-2026. The transition period provides businesses with an opportunity to start aligning their practices with the new rules, while pursuing decarbonization and integrating science-based climate- and nature-positive practices into their operations and communicating them to customers. As such, the Directive not only empowers consumers but also challenges businesses to innovate and truly embed sustainability into their operations. It represents a collective step towards a more sustainable and equitable European market, where consumers can make informed choices, and businesses compete on the authenticity of their commitment to the planet. Environmental labels based on a certification scheme, such as the Green Initiative’s climate labels, will play a key role in helping companies to integrate best practices into their business models while also informing customers of their exemplary environmental performance, contributing to value addition and transparency. A Collective Step Towards Sustainability As society embraces the EmpCo Directive, it stands at the threshold of a transformative journey towards sustainability. It’s a journey that requires the participation of all – businesses, consumers, and policymakers – united by the common goal of ensuring a thriving, sustainable future for generations to come. Together, we can turn the tide towards a more sustainable world, where transparency, accountability, and genuine green practices are the norm, not the exception. For advice and support on how your company can meet its climate and nature goals based on sound technical practices that can deliver new competitive advantages and innovation in products and services, please contact us. Written by Frédéric Perron-Welch, Head of Climate and Nature Policy from the Green Initiative Team.

The European Union Raises the Bar on Climate Claims: Why Tackling Greenwashing is Key to Empowering Consumers for a Sustainable Future Read More »

COP28 ended with an agreement: Carbon Calamity – The question now is about the speed & scale of implementation

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

The urgency to address climate change has never been more evident, as highlighted by the recent conclusion of COP28. Amidst the agreements and discussions, the pivotal question is not just about what needs to be done but how swiftly and effectively these measures can be implemented. Science unequivocally emphasizes the necessity for a dual approach: the imperative to decarbonize economies and simultaneously seek ways to extract existing carbon from the atmosphere. However, the route to achieving the latter remains a spirited debate. Should we rely on nature-based solutions or pivot toward new technological innovations? This is where Brooklyn-based rapper Dex McBean steps onto the stage with a creative and thought-provoking rap battle. Dex McBean’s Rap Battle Sparks Dialogue on Nature vs. Tech Solutions Dex McBean, known for his lyrical prowess, took to the mic in an electrifying performance, exploring the arguments from both sides of the aisle. In a captivating display of wit and rhythm, he delved into the pros and cons of nature-based solutions and cutting-edge technologies, igniting a dialogue that resonates with the urgency of the climate crisis. The rap battle, an unconventional yet engaging medium, catalyzes discussion. It’s not merely entertainment; it’s a platform that invites individuals to delve deeper into the heart of the matter. Through Dex McBean’s verses, the dichotomy between harnessing the inherent power of nature and leveraging human ingenuity via technology comes alive. The dichotomy is more than just theoretical. It’s grounded in tangible reports and initiatives driving the conversation on climate action. The UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2023 underscores the critical need for comprehensive solutions. The UNEP State of Finance for Nature Report 2023 sheds light on the financial aspects, highlighting the significance of funding mechanisms for these solutions. Moreover, the UNEP/FAO Becoming #GenerationRestoration Report 2021 lays the groundwork for a global initiative emphasizing political support, research, and financial investments. The UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration 2021-2030, led by the United Nations Environment Programme and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, stands as a clarion call for collective action. This ambitious initiative aims to unite political will, scientific expertise, and financial resources to scale restoration efforts across terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems. It’s a rallying cry to all, urging active participation to shape a more sustainable future. The Green Initiative Team Calls for Action: Join #GenerationRestoration in Climate Solutions Post-COP28 For those inspired by the rhythm of Dex McBean’s rap and motivated to contribute, the Green Initiative Team offers avenues for involvement. With hashtags like #GenerationRestoration, #GreenInitiative, and #ForestFriends, the movement gains momentum, fostering a community dedicated to restoring and preserving our natural world. The rap battle isn’t just about choosing sides; it’s about recognizing the synergy between nature’s resilience and human innovation. It prompts us to contemplate a future where nature-based solutions and technological advancements complement each other in the fight against climate change. As the curtains fall on COP28, the echoes of Dex McBean’s verses linger—a reminder that the battle against climate change demands not just action but a harmonious collaboration between nature’s forces and humanity’s ingenuity. It’s a challenge, an opportunity, and a call to arms for #GenerationRestoration. So, let’s embrace this creative take on climate solutions, dive into the rap battle, and explore the avenues that lead us toward a sustainable, restored planet.

COP28 ended with an agreement: Carbon Calamity – The question now is about the speed & scale of implementation Read More »

Carbon Neutral Logistics: A Business Opportunity and Climate Imperative

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

The context The logistics industry plays a significant role in the economy. The global logistics market is projected to reach USD 12.68 trillion by 2027, driven by the growth of e-commerce, globalization, and increasing demand for the efficient supply chain management. Furthermore, international trade and logistics create significant employment opportunities. In the United States alone, the logistics industry employs over 10 million people, with employment in the sector expected to grow by 7% between 2019 and 2029. Similarly, in Europe, the logistics sector employs over 11 million people, making it one of the largest employers in the region. Why is carbon-neutral logistics necessary? Decarbonizing logistics is important for several reasons. Firstly, logistics is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the global transportation sector, which includes logistics and international trade, is responsible for approximately 24% of energy-related CO2 emissions. Additionally, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) estimates that maritime shipping alone accounts for around 2.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, projected to increase by up to 250% by 2050 without additional action. Decarbonizing logistics is essential for achieving global emissions reduction targets and addressing the climate crisis. An emerging demand for carbon neutral logistical services There are several reasons why logistic companies should invest in carbon neutral service. First and foremost, it is essential to address the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. With the transportation sector responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, reducing emissions from logistics operations is crucial for meeting global climate goals. Moreover, investing in carbon neutral services can also be a business opportunity for logistics companies. Many businesses and consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their supply chain and are looking to reduce their carbon footprint. By offering carbon neutral services, logistics companies can differentiate themselves from competitors, appeal to environmentally conscious customers, and potentially increase revenue. In fact, there is growing evidence to suggest that there is a significant demand for climate smart or carbon neutral logistical services. • A survey conducted by UNCTAD found that 70% of respondents plan to purchase more products and services from companies with a lower carbon footprint.• A report by DHL found that 69% of companies surveyed have implemented or plan to implement a carbon reduction strategy in their supply chain (DHL, 2019).• McKinsey also found that 47% of companies surveyed have set a carbon reduction target for their supply chain, and 87% of these companies believe their suppliers can help them achieve their targets.• A study by EcoVadis found that 62% of companies surveyed said that sustainability is a key factor in their purchasing decisions, and 38% have implemented sustainability criteria in their supplier selection process.• The International Transport Forum estimated that there will be a demand for up to 60% lower emissions in the global logistics sector by 2050 (International Transport Forum, 2018). In summary, investing in climate smart logistical services is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, meeting global climate goals, and addressing customer demand for more sustainable products and services. Climate neutral logistics on practice DHL DHL is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2050 and offers a range of carbon neutral shipping options to its customers. These options include carbon offsetting, biofuel, and electric vehicles. Maersk Maersk, the world’s largest container shipping company, has set a goal to become carbon neutral by 2050 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “Carbon Neutral Programme.” UPS UPS has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 12% by 2025 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “UPS Carbon Neutral” program. FedEx FedEx has set a goal to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “FedEx Carbon Neutral” program. Amazon Amazon has committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2040 and offers carbon neutral shipping options to customers through its “Shipment Zero” program. These companies are just a few examples of logistics providers that are actively working to reduce their carbon footprint and offering carbon neutral options to their customers. By investing in these services, customers can offset the carbon emissions associated with their shipments and support companies that are leading the way in sustainability through decarbonizing their value chain. Who is leading this change? Some of the key players promoting the decarbonization of international trade and logistics are: IMO The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has set a target of reducing emissions from the sector by at least 50% by 2050 compared to 2008 levels. Global Maritime Forum Is leading a global call to action with the aim to accelerating maritime shipping’s decarbonization with the development and deployment of commercially viable deep sea zero emission vessels by 2030 towards full decarbonization by 2050. World Economic Forum Through the Supply Chain & Transport CEO Statement, the World Economic Forum is promoting a coalition of business leader in the transportation supply chain to run entirely on net-zero energy sources by 2050. Why Green Initiative? At Green Initiative we are working with leading global shippers and carriers to reduce their carbon footprint and improve climate performance in freight transportation. Our aim is to support the decarbonization of national and international trade by 30% by 2030 and to support the transition to zero emissions freight sector. We collaborate with our global partners to quantify impacts, identify solutions, and advocate logistics decarbonization strategies.

Carbon Neutral Logistics: A Business Opportunity and Climate Imperative Read More »

Walking the Talk: Why USAID Contractors Should Care About Carbon Footprints?

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

US Government’s OASIS+ Contract Vehicle Promotes Sustainability and Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions As the world grapples with the effects of climate change, governments, and organizations are increasingly focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainability. The US government is no exception and has taken steps to address climate change through various initiatives, including the OASIS+ contract vehicle. This contract vehicle, developed by the General Services Administration (GSA), streamlines access to professional services, including sustainability-related services like carbon footprint management. US Government Agencies Now Require Scope 1 and 2 Disclosures from Contractors for Sustainability Initiatives Many US government agencies, such as EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), DOD (Department of Defense), and USAID (United States Agency for International Development), are now requesting Scope 1 and 2 disclosures from their contractors as part of their sustainability initiatives. Scope 1 emissions are directly generated by an organization, while Scope 2 emissions are indirect emissions generated by the organization’s consumption of purchased electricity, heat, or steam. Disclosure of Scopes 1 and 2 Emissions Helps Contractors Reduce Carbon Footprint and Boosts Business Performance Disclosing Scopes 1 and 2 emissions can help contractors identify opportunities for carbon footprint mitigation, crucial to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing down global warming. In addition to reducing climate impact, a study by the UN found that companies that disclose their climate performance have a 67% higher return on equity than those that do not. This suggests that reducing carbon footprint can lead to lower operating costs, improved efficiency, and a more competitive market position. Emissions Reporting Crucial for Contractors Seeking Government Contracts, Particularly with USAID’s Focus on Sustainable Development Reporting on emissions can also improve contractors’ climate performance, which is increasingly important to many government agencies when evaluating contractors. This is particularly relevant to USAID, which invests millions of dollars in international aid to promote sustainable development in emerging economies. USAID contractors should therefore be accountable for their climate impact to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. Partner with Green Initiative to Reduce Carbon Footprint and Improve Sustainability Performance: Position Yourself as a Climate Leader in International Development. Contact us Today! Green Initiative is a certification and climate advisory that specializes in helping organizations reduce their carbon footprint and improve their sustainability performance. By partnering with Green Initiative, USAID contractors can access expert advice and support to identify opportunities for carbon footprint mitigation, implement sustainability initiatives, and improve their climate performance. Green Initiative’s services can also help contractors meet the increasing demand for sustainability from government agencies like USAID and position themselves as leaders in the climate-smart international development arena. In addition to the benefits to contractors, reporting on Scopes 1 and 2 emissions can contribute to the US government’s broader efforts to address climate change. President Biden’s recent Executive Order on “Climate-Related Financial Risk” directs federal agencies, including USG contracting agencies such as USAID, to identify and disclose the climate-related financial risks their programs, assets, and liabilities face. The Order also requires federal agencies to integrate climate-related risk analysis into their procurement processes. By disclosing their carbon footprint, USAID contractors can help federal agencies like USAID meet these requirements and contribute to the broader goal of promoting sustainability and mitigating the impacts of climate change. In conclusion, USAID contractors should walk the talk, when it comes to promoting sustainable and climate-smart development. By disclosing Scopes 1 and 2 emissions, contractors can identify opportunities for carbon footprint mitigation and improve their sustainability performance. Green Initiative can provide expert advice and support to help contractors achieve their climate-performance goals and meet the increasing demand for climate action from government agencies like USAID. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in achieving your climate performance goals.

Walking the Talk: Why USAID Contractors Should Care About Carbon Footprints? Read More »

The Importance of Investing in Carbon Capture Technologies

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

The Earth’s natural carbon sinks: Understanding their vital role in climate change The Earth has a remarkable ability to naturally sequester carbon, through a variety of processes that occur in ecosystems including forests, grasslands, wetlands, soils, and oceans. These natural processes, also known as “sinks,” play a crucial role in removing carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, from the atmosphere and storing it in the Earth’s ecosystems. Although, recent studies suggest significant carbon sinks such as the Amazonia, may no longer be capturing as much carbon as they release. (Denning, 2020) The Impacts of Climate Change on Natural Carbon Sequestration Processes: Disruptions and Consequences Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and altered ecosystems due to climate change have disrupted natural carbon sequestration processes. For example, climate-induced disturbances such as wildfires, droughts, and floods can disrupt ecosystems, leading to changes in vegetation growth, carbon storage in soils, and oceanic carbon uptake. These combined impacts of climate change and human activities are reducing the Earth’s ability to naturally sequester carbon, contributing to the increase of atmospheric carbon dioxide levels and exacerbating climate change. Exploring the Potential and Limitations of Forest Regeneration as a Climate Mitigation Strategy To counteract the negative effects associated with increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels, climate certification and advisory companies most commonly employ the method of forest regeneration. This method is preferred due to the limited amount of required monitoring and maintenance, the added benefits to biodiversity and soil conservation, and its cost-effectiveness. Scientists estimate forest regeneration has the potential to store an equivalent of 25% of the atmospheric carbon pool (Bastin et al., 2019). However, forest regeneration is a time-consuming process and requires large areas of land, often resulting in land-use conflicts. Furthermore, considering the UN’s ambitious goal to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, it is unreasonable to hypothesize all the carbon mitigation will occur through forest regeneration. Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS): Potential, Limitations, and the Need for Investment Decarbonization can also take place through Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) and Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). These emerging technologies have the potential to help mitigate the relatively large carbon footprint of aviation, maritime, and heavy industries that are considered hard to abate, as they have limited low-carbon alternatives currently available. For example, estimates suggest that CCS has the potential to capture and store up to 45% of the CO2 emissions from industrial processes. Even in the most conservative scenarios, these technologies are expected to scale up in demand enough to remove at least 2 gigatons per annum (GTPA) of carbon dioxide by 2050. However, we are still at the very beginning of development, with CCS and BECCS requiring large amounts of energy to operate and thus, having a limited carbon capture efficiency. Analyst estimates suggest a 120-fold increase in carbon uptake needs to occur for these technologies to be viable to achieve climate goals by 2050 (McKinsey, 2022) Therefore, private investment in these technologies is essential to achieve global decarbonization as it is only through advancements in material science, manufacturing, and engineering optimizations that we achieve technological improvements. Join the Climate Champions: Partner with Green Initiative for Sustainable Solutions At Green Initiative, we strive to help our clients stay up to date with the latest developments in climate action and provide our clients with the necessary tools and knowledge to set a plan to achieve decarbonization, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to a sustainable future. Contact us to learn more and become a part of our climate champions! This article was writen by Marc Tristant, from the Green Inititative team. References: Bastin, J., Finegold, Y., Garcia, C., Mollicone, D., Rezende, M., Routh, D., Zohner, C. M., & Crowther, T. W. (2019). The global tree restoration potential. Science, 365(6448), 76–79. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aax0848 Denning, A. S. (2021). Southeast Amazonia is no longer a carbon sink. Nature, 595(7867), 354–355. https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-021-01871-6 Scaling the CCUS industry to achieve net-zero emissions. (2022, October 28). McKinsey & Company. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/oil-and-gas/our-insights/scaling-the-ccus-industry-to-achieve-net-zero-emissions

The Importance of Investing in Carbon Capture Technologies Read More »

Carbon emission sanctions and rewards: understanding the future of climate policies

Leave a Comment / Green Initiative

How to take advantage of the emerging carbon emission policies What are carbon sanctions/rewards As the world becomes increasingly aware of the negative impact of carbon emissions on the environment, governments and corporations alike are facing mounting pressure to take action to reduce their carbon footprints. One way this has begun to be addressed is through the implementation of sanctions and rewards for carbon emissions. Sanctions for carbon emissions involve penalties for companies or countries that exceed a certain threshold of carbon emissions. These penalties could take the form of fines or restrictions on activities, and would serve as a disincentive for businesses and nations to continue emitting high levels of carbon. On the other hand, bonuses for carbon emissions would offer rewards for companies or nations that make significant strides in reducing their carbon emissions. Thus, reducing the financial burden of investing in novel, green technologies that often require an elevated initial investment. The importance of carbon sanction/rewards in the upcoming years Several governments have already implemented such policies. For example, the European Union’s Emissions Trading System (ETS) imposes a cap on carbon emissions from power plants, factories, and other industrial sectors. Companies are required to purchase permits to emit carbon, and those that exceed their allotted emissions must purchase additional permits or face fines. Conversely, companies that emit less than their allotted amount can sell their excess permits for a profit. Similarly, China’s carbon trading system, which began operating in 2017, covers the energy and industrial sectors and is designed to help the country meet its goal of peaking carbon emissions by 2030. Companies that reduce their emissions below their allotted cap can sell excess permits to those that exceed their limits, creating a financial incentive for companies to reduce their carbon footprints. In addition to these policies, governments are also offering rewards for companies and nations that make significant progress in reducing their carbon emissions. For example, Sweden offers rebates on the purchase of electric cars, while Norway has set a goal of having all new cars sold be electric by 2025. In the United States, the state of New York offers incentives for the installation of solar panels, while California offers rebates for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances. In essence, the implementation of sanctions and rewards for carbon emissions is one potential solution that could help to incentivize the changes necessary to reach a climate positive economy. Governments from around the globe have only just begun to implement climate action into their policies and given the alarming state of the warming climate, they are not likely to stop anytime soon. How can you take advantage of the new sanctions/rewards on carbon emissions As the world continues to grapple with the effects of climate change, it is becoming increasingly clear that we need to take decisive action to reduce our carbon emissions. At Green Initiative, we offer a range of services that can help your company take advantage of carbon emission rewards and avoid current and future carbon emission sanctions. Whether you need help identifying the sources of your emissions, developing a carbon reduction strategy, or implementing energy-efficient solutions, we are here to help you and your company get a head start on climate action. Reach out to contact@greeninitiative.eco and become a part of our climate champions!

Carbon emission sanctions and rewards: understanding the future of climate policies Read More »