Why is it important to reduce carbon emissions?

Climate change isn’t a distant threat—it’s here now. From wildfires and floods to disappearing species and rising food insecurity, we’re already seeing the effects. Scientists agree: to avoid the most severe consequences, we must reach carbon neutrality globally by 2050 to keep global warming below 1.5°C.

That means every industry—and every business—has a role to play.

• The food and beverage industry is responsible for nearly a third of global GHG emissions, from the farm to the landfill.
• These emissions—commonly called "carbon emissions"—include not just CO2 but six other gases covered by the Paris Agreement: CH4, N2O, HFCs, PFCs, SF6, and NF3.

By calculating and reducing emissions, we can protect what we love—for today and for future generations.
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One of the most powerful steps a company can take on climate is to understand its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—along with the risks and opportunities tied to them. For food and beverage businesses, this starts with completing an annual total carbon footprint, including supply chain emissions (which often make up the majority).

A carbon footprint completed with ClimateHound provides a clear emissions baseline and deeper insights, such as:

• Key emission drivers across operations and supply chains
• Emissions by category (Scopes 1, 2, and 3)
• Energy use and sources
• Water consumption and waste generation
• Benchmarking metrics to track and compare performance

With this data, businesses can set reduction targets and launch initiatives where they’ll have the biggest impact.

Some companies go a step further by becoming carbon neutral—measuring, reducing, and offsetting their emissions each year.

👉 Did you know? Taking climate action can lead to cost savings, stronger brand loyalty, increased employee retention, and other long-term business benefits.
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What does “carbon neutral” mean?

Being carbon neutral means balancing the greenhouse gases (GHGs) you emit with those you remove or prevent from entering the atmosphere. In other words, any emissions you produce are balanced by efforts to remove or prevent an equal amount elsewhere.

Companies often achieve this balance by funding carbon-negative projects—things like preserving forests, expanding renewable energy, capturing carbon, or distributing clean cookstoves. These efforts either remove existing emissions or avoid new ones. When companies fund these projects indirectly, it's done by purchasing “carbon offsets” in which the environmental benefits have been thoroughly vetted.

The ClimateHound Carbon Neutral Certification means a company has:
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1. Calculated their total carbon footprint for the year, including supply chain emissions.
2. Committed to reducing overall environmental impact. 
3. Funded projects to offset their remaining annual emissions.

👉 Did you know? Each carbon offset purchased represents 1 metric ton of GHG emissions.
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What can individuals do?

We all have a role to play in tackling climate change. As individuals, we can reduce our own greenhouse gas emissions—and encourage companies, communities, and governments to do the same.
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• At work: Ask your employer what they’re doing to reduce emissions, and find ways to support or improve those efforts.
• As a consumer: Choose certified carbon neutral products, support sustainable businesses, and reduce waste wherever possible.

👉 Did you know? Certifications such as ClimateHound, B Corporation, Energy Star, Fair Trade, or Rainforest Alliance make it easier to spot more sustainable options.

We want you and your families – as well as ours – to have a safe and secure future on a beautiful and healthy planet. We’re all in this together and everyone can help make a difference!