What Net Zero means and why it matters
Net Zero Cloud helps balance the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions released with the amount removed from the atmosphere. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), GHG emissions are the primary cause of global warming. These emissions continue to increase each year, driving significant climate challenges.
The Paris Agreement stresses the need to cut emissions by 45% by 2030. Reaching Net Zero by 2050 is crucial to limit global warming to 1.5°C. Many organisations have joined the “Race to Zero,” committing to halve their GHG emissions by 2030.
Beginning the Net Zero journey
Organisations committed to sustainability need robust solutions that audit value chains, monitor emissions, and report progress. Salesforce’s Net Zero Cloud provides a comprehensive platform, acting as a centralised source for environmental data. It supports organisations by tracking real-time sustainability data, automating emissions calculations, and forecasting future emissions while reducing risk.
Key features
Net Zero Cloud comes with a variety of features, such as:
- Carbon accounting and forecasting for scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions
- Climate action and audit dashboards
- Executive-level reporting tools
- What-if analysis for scenario planning
- Water and waste management solutions
- Comprehensive scope 3 and supply chain management
Understanding Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions
It is essential to understand the classification of emissions:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by an organisation, such as company vehicles and equipment.
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, or heating used by the organisation.
- Scope 3: All other indirect emissions in an organisation’s value chain, including suppliers and customers.
Scope 3 emissions often make up over 70% of a business’s carbon footprint, according to Deloitte. Managing Scope 3 is challenging due to its reliance on external data and activities across the value chain.
Refer to the included diagrams for a visual breakdown of Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions and their sources.
According to Deloitte, for many businesses, Scope 3 emissions account for more than 70% of their carbon footprint. This is the most challenging category because it’s influenced by decisions made outside the organisation and activities must be tracked across the entire value chain, from suppliers to end users.
How Net Zero Cloud integrates sustainability and technology
Net Zero Cloud consolidates emissions data into a single platform to drive climate action. The platform automates data collection and emissions calculations, enabling organisations to identify ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Data sources can include IoT devices, CSV or PDF files, and API integrations.
Net Zero Cloud includes a robust library of emissions factor reference data. This data comes from trusted sources such as the IPCC and the UK Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS). This ensures accurate carbon accounting.
The Scope 3 emissions hub in Net Zero Cloud allows organisations to collaborate with suppliers. This shared view helps manage emissions from upstream processes. It tracks environmentally extended input-output (EEIO) data and procurement details.
Advanced tools and reporting capabilities
Net Zero Cloud provides advanced tools like Science-Based Targets and carbon forecasting. These features help organisations set emissions goals and monitor their progress. The Climate Action Dashboard forecasts future emissions and displays potential carbon footprints. The What-If analysis tool lets organisations simulate how different decisions will impact emissions.
The platform also includes CRM Analytics for extensive reporting and visualisation. Dashboards cover Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, waste management, and renewable energy. Data can be broken down by location, activity, and scope.
Exploring the Net Zero Marketplace
Net Zero Cloud features the Net Zero Marketplace, where organisations can buy carbon credits. These credits support eco-friendly projects worldwide. Each carbon credit represents the removal of one metric tonne of carbon dioxide or its equivalent.
Net Zero Cloud works with Tableau for data visualisation, MuleSoft for integration with Customer 360, and Slack for seamless collaboration.
Committing to Net Zero through innovation
Net Zero represents more than a technological shift; it marks a change in perspective. Striving for Net Zero shows an organisation’s commitment to sustainability. This effort also provides a competitive advantage in a climate-focused world.
Net Zero Cloud streamlines emissions calculations, freeing up time for meaningful climate action. It ensures reliable data for compliance, informed decisions, and stakeholder reporting. With this, organisations stay on track to achieve their sustainability goals.
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