Scope 3: what are upstream and downstream emissions?

Scope 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions encompass “upstream” and “downstream” emissions, reflecting activities before and after a company’s internal production, respectively.
upstream emissions include the purchase of goods, energy production, transportation and business travel, while downstream emissions concern the use of products sold, post-sales transportation and the end-of-life of products.
distinguishing between these two types of emissions is essential for assessing and reducing a company’s overall carbon footprint, by identifying the most effective areas of intervention at each stage of the product life cycle.

Scope 3: what emissions are taken into account?

Scope 3 encompasses indirect emissions linked to an organization, but often neglected. it includes upstream emissions, such as the extraction of raw materials and business travel, as well as downstream emissions, such as the transport of finished products and their end-of-life. accounting for scope 3 is crucial for gaining a complete picture of a company’s carbon footprint and identifying areas for improvement in its supply chain.
This accounting not only reinforces a company’s environmental commitment, but also creates value for its stakeholders.