Carbon footprint

Stephan Krinke and Yu-Yi Lin

Chapter 6 in Elgar Encyclopedia of Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment, 2026, pp 17-18 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: A carbon footprint is a calculation of the total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions resulting from an activity and is based on Life Cycle Assessment calculations. The metric is measured in kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent (kg CO2 eq). The carbon footprint consists of two components: direct and indirect GHG emissions. For accounting and reporting purposes, the GHG Protocol further differentiates these GHG emissions into Scope 1, 2, and 3 based on their sources. Carbon footprint can be assessed at the product level, namely, Product Carbon Footprint (PCF), to facilitate data-driven, low-carbon product designs and support informed decision-making for consumers purchasing products with low environmental impacts. On a corporate level, Corporate Carbon Footprint (CCF) assists in identifying climate risks and influencing the development of corporate sustainability strategies to meet compliance requirements. Understanding and analysing carbon footprints is essential for identifying areas of improvement, implementing mitigation strategies against climate change, and promoting sustainable transition.

Keywords: Greenhouse Gas (GHG); Emission; Life Cycle Assessment (LCA); Direct and indirect emissions; Greenhouse Gas (GHG); Protocol; Scope 12 and 3 emissions; Product and Corporate Carbon Footprint (PCF and CCF) (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035309887
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