What is Scope 3 Category 5: Waste?

This includes emissions generated by:

• Landfilling waste: Methane emissions from decomposing organic material in landfills.
• Incineration: Carbon dioxide and other pollutants released during the burning of waste.
• Recycling and Composting: While generally beneficial, these processes can still generate emissions through energy use and transport.

It is essential to note that this category only includes waste generated in operations, not emissions from the end-of-life treatment of products sold by the company (covered under Category 12).

How are Scope3 Category 5: Waste emissions calculated?

Calculating Scope 3, Category 5 emissions involves:

1. Identifying Waste Streams: Break down the types of waste generated in your operations (e.g., organic, plastic, paper, hazardous waste).
2. Quantifying Waste: Measure the volume or weight of each type of waste produced.
3. Determining Disposal Methods: Identify how each waste type is treated - landfilling, incineration, recycling, or composting.
4. Applying Emission Factors: Use emission factors from recognized sources (e.g., DEFRA) to estimate the greenhouse gas emissions associated with each disposal method.
5. Summing Up Emissions: Add up the emissions across all waste streams to calculate the total for Category 5.

What are some examples of Scope 3 Category 5: Waste emissions?

Here are a few examples to help illustrate Category 5 emissions:

• A restaurant’s methane emissions from food waste sent to landfills.
• Emissions from the incineration of packaging waste at a factory.
• Carbon dioxide generated during the recycling of office paper.
• Energy emissions from composting organic waste at a treatment facility.

How can companies reduce their Scope 3 Category 5: Waste emissions?

To minimize waste-related emissions, companies can adopt various strategies:

• Reduce Waste at the Source: Implement practices to minimize waste generation, such as optimizing processes, reducing packaging, and encouraging digital workflows.
• Improve Recycling Rates: Partner with reputable recycling facilities and educate employees on proper waste segregation to maximize recycling.
• Compost Organic Waste: Divert food and biodegradable waste from landfills to composting facilities, which reduces methane emissions.
• Choose Sustainable Disposal Options: Use waste-to-energy facilities that produce energy while minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Collaborate with Stakeholders: Work with suppliers, customers, and waste management partners to adopt sustainable waste handling practices.