The Problem

APEM is monitoring their Scopes 1 & 2 emissions in-house on a monthly basis, but wanted some help with Scope 3, specifically supply chain mapping. APEM is a large company, with an extensive supply chain.

Calculating the emissions of the supply chain, and looking for quick wins to reduce carbon was a priority.

Solution and Outcome

It was agreed that Beyond Procurement would look at the top 100 suppliers, and calculate using the spend-based method. This exercise used DEFRA’s emissions data based on spend and SIC code. The suppliers were all given an appropriate SIC code, and the emissions were converted from the financial spend. This method is not the most accurate, as individual companies can make enormous efforts to reduce their emissions below the standard industry value. However, this allows the supply chain to be ranked in order of presumed emissions. Further analysis can be done with each supplier, to ascertain more accurate emissions figures.

Suggestions such as oil boiler upgrades, value recovery from waste streams and switching water contracts to a carbon-neutral supplier can reduce emissions by an estimated 30.37 tonnes. These initiatives will also save an estimated £5,000 pa for heating and water costs.

Beyond Procurement has recommended a number of suppliers who specialise in circular economy, heating upgrades and carbon-neutral water supply. With ever-changing motivations, legislations and pressure, companies like APEM are pioneering the effort to reduce carbon emissions, not only from their operation but also from their supply chains.