A guide to PAS 2060 legislations
Climate change is rife in today’s world – one would only need to turn to the headlines to understand the crisis that faces our planet daily. Carbon dioxide plays a major part in climate change and is produced and released into the earth’s atmosphere each time we use our cars, take a flight, and turn on a machine.
Developed by the British Standards Institution and implemented in 2010, the PAS 2060 standard is a chance for companies, organisations, and corporations to pledge to become carbon neutral by following four key steps.
Measurement
The first step companies must take to become PAS 2060 compliant involves measuring the actual current carbon footprint for the company seeking to declare carbon neutrality.
Reduction
Next, a strategy needs to be devised for reducing emissions. This involves developing a Carbon Management Plan that requires releasing a public commitment to carbon neutrality from the offset. The strategy needs to include:
- A detailed timescale for achieving carbon neutrality.
- Specific targets for GHG (greenhouse gas) reduction.
- Planned means of achieving the reductions.
- How residual emissions will be offset.
The Carbon Management Plan should be reviewed and updated on an annual basis.
Offsetting
A carbon offset is generated by an activity that either prevents the release of, reduces, or removes greenhouse gas emissions from the atmosphere. To achieve the PAS 2060 standard and carbon neutrality you must offset the total amount of residual carbon emissions created by your company using high-quality carbon credits.
Documentation
The final stage of the process is the documentation and verification to declare the organization carbon neutral. This is drawn up in a statement that the required standards
have been met, supported by a “Qualifying Explanatory Statement”. This includes:
- Proof of emissions reduction
- Carbon footprint report
- Carbon Management Plan
- Qualifying Explanatory Statement
Benefits of being PAS 2060 compliant
Whilst getting PAS 2060 verified is voluntary, there are numerous benefits to your company and the planet. Current carbon neutral companies have found that reducing their organisation’s greenhouse gas emissions was well worth the effort.
Ecological responsibility
Not only are you setting a positive example by going carbon neutral, the steps are so easy that there is no logical reason not to adopt environmental responsibility as a core part of your business strategy.
Credibility
Eco-conscious companies become more credible for ‘doing their bit’ for the planet and for future generations when they go carbon neutral. As organizations account for a high percentage of GHG across the globe, it is therefore important that PAS 2060 verified companies are taking steps in the right direction.
Stronger market position
By building a better environmental policy within your company, you stand out among your competitors and differentiate yourself as an environmentally responsible brand which is advantageous for future sales and new customers.
Current carbon neutral companies
- Sky
- M&S
- Quorn
- Avis
Is PAS 2060 verification right for me?
PAS 2060 verification might be right for your company for the following reasons:
- To reduce your emissions and improve your environmental record to remain competitive within your market.
- Meet customer demands for more environmentally-friendly products and services.
- To serve as a supplier for more environmentally-conscious businesses.
Spray booth servicing and maintenance provider AGM Services are set to become the first company in the Spray Booth service sector to become carbon neutral. Whatever industry you’re in, the PAS 2060 standard will help you improve consumer relationships, while also contributing to the long-term stability of life on Earth.
