| Date | Category |
|---|---|
| 8th December 2023 | Blog |
(3-minute read)
COP28, running from 30 November until 12 December 2023, marks another crucial moment in the global effort to combat the issue of sustainability and climate change.
How is COP28 key in addressing Scope 3?
As the world gathers to discuss strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change, one key aspect requiring attention is Scope 3 emissions. Scope 1 and 2 emissions are more commonly acknowledged and easier to measure and control. Tackling Scope 3 emissions is paramount in achieving ambitious sustainability and net zero goals.
The unknown impact of scope 3
Unlike Scopes 1 and 2, Scope 3 emissions are the result of activities from assets not owned or controlled by the reporting institution, but that the institution indirectly impacts in its value chain. Scope 3 emissions often represent the majority of an institution’s total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
There are a number of benefits associated with measuring Scope 3 emissions. For many institutions, the majority of their GHG emissions and cost reduction opportunities lie outside their own operations.
Scope 3 in HE: unique challenges
Scope 3 emissions within higher education institutions encompass a range of indirect emissions associated with their operations. These include emissions from purchased goods and services, employee commuting and student and staff travel. Due to the diverse nature of their activities, universities face unique challenges in mitigating Scope 3 emissions. From international research collaborations to student mobility, the carbon footprint extends beyond the lecture halls and campuses.
The publicity surrounding Scope 3 emissions extends further than COP28, with a recent government call for evidence on the costs, benefits and practicalities of Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions reporting in the UK. The call for evidence closes at 11:59pm on Thursday 14 December.
So, what are the benefits of measuring Scope 3 emissions?
Actively measuring scope 3 allows institutions to:
- Assess where the emission hotspots are in their supply chain
- Identify resource and energy risks in their supply chain
- Identify which suppliers are leaders and which are laggards in terms of their sustainability performance
- Identify energy efficiency and cost reduction opportunities in their supply chain
- Engage suppliers and assist them in implementing sustainability initiatives
- Improve the energy efficiency of their products
- Positively engage with employees to reduce emissions from business travel and employee commuting.
How can universities address Scope 3 emissions?
By recognising the unique challenges faced by universities and promoting collaboration, we can leverage the collective knowledge and influence of higher education institutions to accelerate progress towards a sustainable future.
SUPC offers Scope 3 reports tailored to each institution, highlighting areas where emissions are highest and identifying areas for reduction. SUPC Responsible Procurement Champion, Gavin Phillips, says:
“Understanding Scope 3 emissions is understandably very important to our members. SUPC is committed to providing the best reporting available and we continue to work with suppliers to better understand the impact of our members’ spend.”
For more information about our Scope 3 reports or support with responsible procurement, please get in touch with our team at supc@reading.ac.uk.
Our sister organisation, SUMS Consulting, is dedicated to supporting universities on their path to net zero. SUMS Consulting offers sustainability services expressly designed for universities, including modules focused on understanding, modelling and planning your track to net zero. Visit the SUMS Consulting website to see how our experts can support your university on its sustainability journey.
