CEF CARBON FOOTPRINT by IWW Lateral Applications

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CEF HOUSE ORGANISATIONAL CARBON FOOTPRINT 2011 CALENDAR YEAR Undertaken by CEF Carbon (March 2012) Siphiwe Nhlapo: siphiwen@cefgroup.co.za Rudzani Radebe: rudzanir@cefgroup.co.za Nicole Algio: nicolea@cefgroup.co.za Lehlogonolo Seoka: lehlogonolos@cefgroup.co.za

Disclaimer The CEF House Carbon Footprint was developed for the calendar year 2011. The first carbon footprint undertaken for CEF House was for calendar year 2010 and provided the original platform for the current carbon footprint to become more detailed and specific in its approach. Although the current (2011) carbon footprint is undertaken by CEF Carbon with all reasonable care to ensure that all information in the report is accurate at the time it was added to the report, the detail that can be provided in any carbon footprint is dependent on the boundaries set out in the scope of the study, as well as the ease and availability of accessible data. This report is intended to provide information and guidance only. CEF Carbon is not liable for any incorrect or misrepresented information contained in this report. All data collected and recorded has been collected using various sources and no guarantee is given that the information provided is absolutely complete. The materials contained in this reports are for general information purposes only and aim at establishing a carbon footprint benchmark for CEF House, in which future operations can be measured against. Given that the data collected provided incomplete and at times vague information, the outcomes of this carbon footprint are only an indication of the total carbon emissions resulting from daily operation. The more detailed the data source collected, the more accurate the eventual carbon footprint. All reasonable action will be taken to establish robust data collection systems in order to fine tune future carbon footprints for CEF House.

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Foreword Since its inception in 2003, the Carbon Disclosure Project

towards a low carbon economy. The 2011 CDP report has

(CDP) has seen the number of companies participating in

been published on behalf of 551 investors with assets of

its carbon footprinting and disclosure activities rise. The

US$ 71 trillion. Companies have indicated the necessity of

fifth CDP report has highlighted businessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; commitment in

moving from risk identification from carbon footprinting

achieving disclosure of their carbon footprints and working

exercises, towards mitigation and adaptation by prioritizing

towards becoming more energy efficient and emission

strategies and implementation plans to access identified

reducing. Not only has there been an overall improvement

opportunities.

in the response rate to the CDP, but the quality and scope of data collected has refined the outcomes and placed a

The CEF House carbon footprint is an effective tool

strategic value on carbon footprinting for organizations.

There has been a significant shift in operational behaviour

identification of risk areas and opportunities where

and the realized importance that establishing emission

operations can be managed more effectively and efficiently.

baselines within organizations can have many positive

By setting baselines, management can set appropriate

effects, including risk mitigation and asset creation. With

targets and mitigation schemes that will improve overall

South Africa having gazetted the National Climate Change

business management and operations. As a state-owned

Response Policy, committing the country to addressing issues

entity and a major player in the renewable energy sector,

on climate change and energy sustainability, organizations

CEF House will set an important example as an energy

and individuals have also committed themselves to

efficient and sustainability conscious entity.

highlighting

operational

behaviour,

including

the

implementing measures that transition South Africa

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Rising energy demands and prices are placing increased

impact of business behaviour and internal energy usage on

pressure on various finite energy commodities such as

global warming. It is important for any business to integrate

fossil fuels. This has led to an increase in the impact

emission management into a core business strategy to allow

on social and economic development across the globe.

for effective sustainable operations in changing operational

Managing carbon emissions and protecting business from

behaviour. Coupled with this, is the drive for government

the risks associated with climate change is fundamental

to meet its climate change ambitions as mentioned in the

in achieving sustainability and strong shareholder returns.

White Paper on Climate Change, for a greener more energy

As part of sustainable business management, the concept

efficient South Africa. This venture will require not only

of carbon management is an important one. The pressures

government, but also private sector, and indeed individuals

of climate change and resource management in meeting

to provide and necessitate a cooperative effort from all

new and necessary corporate responsibilities have played

spheres in this dedication. Advancing business towards a

a major role in establishing greener corporate identities

low carbon economy is a responsible measure in meeting

in the manner in which business is operating internally.

the goal of maintaining sustainable business practice while

Carbon footprinting is at the heart of beginning such a

reducing reliance on finite resources such as fossil fuels. By

journey. A carbon footprint is the essential foundation in

determining the carbon footprint, a critical step is taken

identifying energy consumption and business behaviour

towards setting a baseline for monitoring and managing the

in order to identify key issues that affect overall energy

future emissions and efficient business practices for CEF

consumption. It is a powerful tool in understanding the

House.

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Introduction

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2. Background The debate around energy and climate change

energy needs of South Africa, the Southern African

sustainability is not new. Climate change is arguably

Development Community (SADC) and the sub-Saharan

one of the major factors that can negatively impact

African region including oil, gas, electrical power, solar

economic and social circumstances and it is clear that

energy, low smoke fuels, biomass, wind and renewable

a business-as-usual approach in all aspects of business

energy sources.” As one of South Africa’s leading energy

operation, excluding a view of climate change is no longer

management companies, CEF is expected to take the lead

acceptable. The term ‘sustainability’ has wide variations

in introducing appropriate climate change and carbon

in its definition and application across most sectors of

management actions that will not only contribute to sound

business. Carbon management is considered to be a

sustainability management but also set an example as a

significant pillar within the broader context of the (climate

climate change and carbon friendly facility. The carbon

change) sustainability discipline and shapes the ideals

footprint is the ideal management tool for developing an

behind emissions management and good business practice.

emissions baseline and striving to achieve best practice in

The term carbon management is borne of the pressures

the sustainability arena.

to reduce greenhouse gas, or carbon emissions, and shift operations to cleaner and more efficient alternatives,

To date, CEF Group has commissioned various activities to

while adhering to the common practices of driving revenue

contribute towards operating a ‘green building’. Some of

for the purposes of good business. The foundations of

the highest energy efficiency standards and technologies

good carbon management include the establishment of

have been implemented at CEF

a carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is defined as the measurement of greenhouse gases that are produced

House, including:

through the organization’s activities, processes, people

* Cavity wall insulation

and events. By determining the carbon footprint of the

* Insulation on the basement ceiling

CEF House, the organization is not only setting an example

* Roof insulation on the top floor

of environmentally responsible practice, but establishing

* Double glazing

environmentally sound policies and best practice.

* Philips ActiLume lighting

Producing a carbon footprint is a critical step in achieving

the company’s goals toward resource, business and climate

* Motion sensor in basement, toilets & kitchens

change sustainability. The carbon footprint provides a

* Sensors on water taps in the toilets

baseline against which future operations and activities can

* 8-stage HVAC chillers

be measured and improved.

* Computer timed chillers

(occupancy & ambient light sensor)

* Low emissivity glass The first CEF House carbon footprint was developed for

* Solar Water Heaters

the calendar year 2010 by CEF Carbon. As its corporate

* Video conferencing facilities

mandate dictates “CEF is involved in the search for

* Energy efficient elevator

appropriate energy solutions to meet the future

3. Scope CEF House business operations and activities have been assessed to identify which activities contribute toward the company’s carbon footprint. The activities selected and covered in the 2011 assessment include: •

Direct emissions; Scope 1: Use of company vehicles and diesel generator

•

Indirect emissions; Scope 2: Electricity bought from ESKOM

•

Other indirect emissions; Scope 3: CEF House staff flights, daily commuting, paper and toilet paper usage

Activities that have not been included in the current assessment include mainly indirect emissions assessments: •

CEF subsidiaries and joint venture companies based outside of CEF House

•

Refrigerants from air conditioners

•

Waste (waste to landfill and recycling including newspaper, cardboard, tin, plastic & glass) for CEF House

•

A Water footprint

•

Use of vehicles/construction vehicles by subsidiaries, including those used by African Explorations for mining purposes (outside of CEF

•

Business/first class travel for flights both local and international (assessments were made based on standard economy class emission factors)

•

Travel accommodation and hired cars

•

Travel and other activities from consultants

•

The period that was assessed was the calendar year of 2011.

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House)

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4. Methodology The theoretical framework for the CEF House carbon

•

Toyota Hilux (XPY353GP)

footprint was developed in the initial scoping phase, with

•

Toyota Corolla (ZMD038GP)

the intention of encompassing all activities and products

•

Toyota Corolla (ZMD054GP)

undertaken at CEF House, that significantly contribute

AE Fleet:

to the carbon footprint. The greenhouse gas (GHG)

•

Double Cab (ZPZ612GP)

accounting and reporting approach undertaken was based

•

Toyota Hilux (BF23VFGP)

on the guidelines and principles in the ‘Greenhouse Gas

•

Toyota Hilux

Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard’

•

Toyota Corolla

developed by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Initiative.

SANEDI Fleet

Globally, this is the most widely applied and accepted

•

Polo Playa (bio diesel)

methodology for the assessment and development of

•

Polo Classic (natural gas)

corporate carbon footprints. Under the GHG Protocol, three different scopes are applied to emissions reporting.

All vehicles have respective logbooks which are managed

All three scopes that define a carbon footprint were

by CEF Logistics. The log includes the total distance each

included in the CEF House carbon footprint evaluation,

vehicle has travelled in 2011, the type and amount of fuel

whereby the boundaries and definitions of each scope

used. The emission factors applied are 0.002311tCO2e and

were clearly identified and classified. While scopes 1

0.00267tCO2e for petrol and diesel respectively (Carbon

and 2 are mandatory for reporting, scope 3 emissions

Trust). The fuel used in the generator for electricity

are reported on a voluntary basis. Figure 1 below

generation during working hours at times of utility

demonstrates the scopes:

electricity outages was diesel. The total amount of diesel used for 2011 was recorded. The emission factor applied

4.1 Scope 1: Direct Emissions

in this instance is 0.0026 tCO2e. The emission factor

Scope 1 emissions are the direct emissions from sources

calculations can be found in the appendix.

that are owned or controlled by the company. In the case of CEF House, the direct emissions are those from fuels

4.2 Scope 2: Indirect Emissions

used on the CEF House premises. These include LPG, CNG

Scope 2 emissions are those emissions associated with

and diesel used for the generator located just outside the

the generation of purchased electricity consumed by CEF

CEF building, as well as the CEF house fleet of vehicles.

House. Electricity is purchased from Eskom. CEF House’s

The vehicle fleet consists of the following:

annual electricity consumption is measured by meters, located in the basement, and recorded by CEF Carbon

CEF Fleet:

staff on a monthly basis. The total area of the CEF House

•

VW Passat (XTZ973)

floor space are recorded at 3937.23m2 and calculations

•

Mercedes Benz Vito (BG51FBGP)

for each company department within the CEF House are

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calculated according to occupied office space. The chillers

The emission factor applied in the calculations for the

locate on two of the building’s floors are incorporated into

CO2 emissions for 2011 are those published by Eskom in

the full area and are spread across all departments.

their annual report. The emission factor is the most widely accepted and applied emission factor for consumption in

These company departments are:

South Africa. The emission factor applied is: 0.98tCO2e.

•

Finance

: 105m2

•

: 127m2

•

Legal

: 54m2

•

: 86m2

•

CEO office

: 301m

•

Secretariat

: 22m2

from the sources neither owned nor controlled by CEF

•

Executive

: 340m2

House (i.e. outsourced distribution). The carbon footprint

•

Treasury

: 56m2

•

Internal Audit

: 133m2

•

Procurement

: 80m2

•

Public Relations

: 36m2

•

CEF Carbon/ CSA

: 37.45m2

•

EDC

: 219m2

4.3.1 Staff Flights

•

ETA

: 63m2

In the case of staff flights, long, medium and short haul

•

SANEDI

: 315.75m2

flights were recorded as per the travel log held by CEF

4.3 Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions Scope 3 emissions are all other indirect emissions as a consequence of the activities of the company that occur

boundary for scope 3 includes three areas: Staff flights incurred for business purposes, staff commuting to CEF House and paper products.

House’s travel service provider, FlyWell. A 2011 travel log was received by FlyWell documenting local and international flight undertaken by CEF House resident staff only. Flight emissions were calculated using the distance of travel between final city destinations and globally accepted flight emission factors (DEFRA). Flights were Figure 1: CEF House Carbon footprint methodological framework.

categorized into international flights (long and medium haul) and local (short and medium haul) flights. A separate

In determining the boundaries for the carbon footprint

emission factor was applied to each:

within each of the applied Scopes, certain assumptions were made for each. The overall carbon footprint was

Parameter

based on 140 CEF House employees. The number of

Distance

Emission Factor

working days per staff member is calculated as 365 days,

Short Haul 0.36

less 14 public holidays, 104 weekend days and 25 annual

401<1000

leave days. The carbon footprint is based on 222 working

Medium Haul

days per staff member. In the application of the various,

1001<3700

relevant emission factors, the most widely used and

Long Haul

accepted emission factors specific to South Africa were

3701<16000

0.20

0.23

applied. In cases were the local emission factors were not

applied in the analysis.

Parameter

Emission Factor

Distance

PAMDC : 46.40m2

Short Haul

0.36

401<1000

African Exploration

182.02m2

Medium Haul

0.20

1001<3700

SASDA

118.50m2

Long Haul

0.23

3701<16000

SFF

51.42m2

iGas

121.24m2

Core Building

1290m2

SRA

152.38m2

Figure 2: Assumptions for Staff Travel emission calculations (Carbon Planet).

When calculating the flight emissions, flight class and

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available, accepted global standards and methods were

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airline type and make were not considered in this carbon footprint. Flights paid for by CEF for external consultants

4.3.3 Paper and Toilet Paper

were not included in the footprint. Connecting flights

CEF House maintains all records of all paper products

were also not taken into consideration. The distance

purchased in the form of invoices. Information collected

applied included the city of origin and the final destination

for paper included the amounts of paper purchased and

city only . A further assumption was made in that the

their collective weight in kilograms. When applying a

emission factor between short and medium flights differs

carbon footprint for paper, the emission factor used is

significantly. In the case of flights from Johannesburg to

a globally accepted life cycle analysis of paper (see

Cape Town and Port Elizabeth respectively, where the

annexure). Three types of paper were included in the

distance differs only slightly and the emission factor differs

carbon footprint: A4 printing paper only, toilet paper

greatly, actual distance was adhered to and destination

and paper towels. The emission factor used per kg is

cities where applied values according to the emission

1200kgCO2e for paper, paper towels and toilet paper

factor assumptions (including distances).

respectively. The complete brand-specific life-cycle emissions factor for paper production was also not

4.3.2 Daily staff commuting

considered.

An internal survey was prepared and distributed to all CEF House employees (see annexure). The aim of the survey

All records of paper purchases were acquired from

was to identify the various modes of transportation and

Procurement/Logistics. Other paper sources such as

fuel types, along with distances travelled. An average of

newspapers, cardboard, envelopes, paper packaging

222 working days was applied across 140 employees. In

and other A-sized printing paper was not included in this

cases where not all surveys were returned, an assumption

analysis. Furthermore, actual paper product usage per

was based on an average emission factor across all other

department/subsidiary could not be analysed. Printers and

submissions, and applied as an average per person. It

recycling depots located on each floor are shared between

is assumed that the mix of vehicles in the survey was

departments and can thus not be separated into usage

typical and the representation is fair in assuming a generic

categories and consumption quantity. The same applies to

average. Only a third of respondents replied to the survey.

individuals. At this stage in the carbon footprint analysis,

Modes of transport included in the evaluation included

there is a challenge in the data collecting methodology

commuting by car, taxi, bus and train.

based on current operational set-up for paper utilization. Although CEF House does recycle its paper via an external

Information requested from all CEF House staff was

pick-up service, recycling was not considered in this

inconsistent for evaluating generic carbon emissions for

carbon footprint as there is no current measurement

each transport type. Aggregating the mode of transport

methodology in place able to calculate the amount (kgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s)

for a generic emissions factor would not give an honest

of paper recycled. Offsetting from recycling activities

reflection of the emissions generated by staff commuting

could also not be considered at this point.

and the various modes of transportation and car model type. The availability of emission factors for each model of car also contributed to the decision to use specific emission factors and not an aggregated one. This is, however, different for staff that commutes using public transport. In this case it was difficult for commuters to identify the exact model of the bus or taxi that they were using. This being the case an aggregated emission factor was applied to taxiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and buses. As a primary source, two National automobile websites containing automobile emission factors for specific car makes was applied. Where information was not available on one site, the other was applied. Transportation by train was excluded from this carbon footprint.

Results This carbon footprint did not use robust statistical analysis, as much of the required data required for this carbon footprint could not be accessed and therefore could not apply statistical analysis in its entirety. As a result, a variety of applicable data sources were accessed where available. Given the inconsistent yet large amount of data and information gathered from CEF House, the results of the carbon footprint can be analysed from various perspectives and divisions. The results are tabulated according to scope, then CEF departments and finally by activity. Where data gaps became apparent, aggregate averages were applied. Table 1 below highlights the carbon emissions produced by operations for CEF House according to Carbon Footprint scope as well as their respective overall contribution.

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Table 1a: Results of CEF House emissions by scope

Table 1b: Results of CEF House carbon emissions contribution

5.1 Scope 1: Direct Emissions Direct emissions under Scope 1 include the electricity generation on-site from the diesel generator. The total amount of carbon emissions generated for the calendar year 2011 was 0.96tCO2. The consumption and emissions are listed in the table below. Diesel consumption was limited to only 2 months of 2011.

Diesel Purchases and details for 2011 Period (2011)

Quantity Purchased(l)

Unit Price/l

Total Diesel Price (R)

Diesel Emissions

Aug

170

R 9.95

R 1 161.50

0.43

Sep

202

R 10.95

R 1 691.90

0.52

TOTAL

372

R 2 853.40

0.95

(tCO2e/l)

Table 2: Total diesel consumption and carbon emissions for CEF House for 2011.

Consumption of diesel and petrol for the fleet cars belonging to CEF House were recorded and are demonstrated below. Information from SANEDI fleet cars was not received and is absent from the calculations and tables. The SANEDI fleet consists of a natural gas and a Biodiesel-fuelled car respectively.

Table 3: Total carbon emissions from the CEF House fleet, measuring petrol and diesel emissions.

5.2 Scope 2: Indirect Emissions Scope 2 emission results for indirect sources include those emissions created by purchased Eskom power. The total consumption of electricity and the resulting carbon emissions are tabled below. Table 4a demonstrates the electricity consumption for each month with table 4b highlighting the resulting carbon emissions.

Table 4a: CEF House electricity consumption per month for 2011

Table 4b: CEF House carbon emissions resulting from electricity consumption per month for 2011

5.3 Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions Scope 3 indirect emissions for this carbon footprint included paper products, business related domestic and international air travel and staff commuting to CEF House. Table 5 below highlights the distribution of Scope 3 emissions. Paper products were distinguished into three categories: printing paper, toilet paper and paper towels, and the emissions calculated accordingly (Table 6).

Table 6: Emissions from paper usage for CEF House in 2011

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Table 5: Distribution of Scope 3 emissions for CEF House

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Table 7: Emissions for CEF House airline travel for 2011

Table 9a: Emissions from daily staff commuting to and from CEF House, per subsidiary for 20111

Table 8a: Distribution of airline travel emissions for CEF House staff members for 2011

1 Table 5 contains only the data that was received from respondents and not from all 140 CEF House staff,

Table 8a: Distribution of airline travel emissions for CEF House staff members for 2011

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Table 9b: Distribution of daily commuting modes by staff to CEF House for 2011

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6. Summary and Discussion A key factor and the first step in achieving emission reductions as well as reducing the overall cost of energy required to effectively and efficiently conduct business, is the undertaking of a carbon footprint. A carbon footprint is an assessment that provides a baseline for overall operational emissions. Some of South Africa’s largest listed companies have highlighted carbon as a risk and as part of their operations voluntarily report their emissions through the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP). In future, emissions reporting and verification may become a mandatory exercise, reinforcing the need to begin a sound carbon management plan in anticipation for such an event and manage any associated risks. Waiting for better market signals before introducing a carbon management plan as part of business operations overall sustainability plan could prove risky. The importance of implementing a carbon footprint as an important management tool to quantify the risks and costs of doing business in an energy constrained environment, while identifying valuable opportunities and adaptation methods, should not be underestimated. The carbon footprint is the first step in measuring and understanding GHG emissions for CEF House. The results

Table 11: Emissions contribution according to category in CEF House.

provide valuable insight into how actions can be taken to minimise the overall emissions and carbon footprint. Liabilities are identified and can potentially be turned into opportunities and assets. Category

Emission Source

Emissions

(tCO2-eq/yr)

0.96

Contribution (%)

On-Site Energy

Generator

0.09%

Electricity (ESKOM)

675.08

60.7%

TOTAL

676.04

60.0%

Transport

Fleet

50.69

11.6%

Daily staff commuting

112.09

9.1%

Staff Flights

274.64

24.7%

TOTAL

426.49

33.3%

Goods & Services

Paper, toilet paper

12.70

1.1%

TOTAL

12.70

1.1%

Table 10: Summary of total emissions distribution across sector categories for 2011

The total carbon footprint of CEF House for the calendar

required in this instance to manage fleet emissions as

year was estimated at 1,126tCO2. The carbon footprint

well as usage and impacts as part of overall emissions

for 2011 identified many valuable insights on the energy

management. The AE fleet is a core component for

data received and the emissions sources. Results by Scope

the business and the results provide a new benchmark

indicate that scope 1 and 2 emissions form the majority of

for future analysis. Information from SANEDI was not

CEF House emissions. The scope 1 total carbon footprint

received for fleet cars and could not be calculated for

is 51,6tCO2. Scope 2 total emissions were calculated at

this calendar year. Overall data capturing for all divisions

675tCO2. Electricity usage for CEF House indicates a rather

and subsidiaries has highlighted the complexities behind

solid average for each month. September shows a lower

capturing data effectively and efficiently. In some cases

average than most other months, indicating the climatic

it was not clear how much fuel was purchased, distances

transition from winter to spring, when both heating and air

(km) were at times not captured accurately or at all, the

conditioning is not required. As CEF House already employs

petrol price at the time of purchase is not recorded in the

a wide variety of energy efficient technologies, most of

logbooks, as well as amount paid. In some instances time

the consumption of electricity can be reduced by simple

sheets were also missing. The need for a more accurate

individual behaviour within the building itself. During the

data capturing system is required for future analysis.

data collection phase of the carbon footprint it became On scope 3, goods and services make up the next largest

a more careful approach in recording electricity usage

proportion of 35% of total emissions at 399tCO2. The size of

and analyse each meter accordingly, for example, read

scope three emissions is dependent on the boundaries set

the meter assigned to each of the chillers, which make

for the carbon footprint and thus the total emissions could

up the bulk of total building energy usage. Recording

result in a much higher volume should a wider boundary be

data and data management should become an integral

applied. Current boundary emissions from scope 3 indicate

part of overall building and emissions management. The

the need for further, more detailed analysis and a need to

diesel consumption from the generator has a minimal

include a wider boundary in the value chain of products

contribution to the overall carbon footprint as it was

such as paper and other items and services. Services not

hardly used in 2011.

considered in the current footprint include activities by external consultants, couriers and their travel. Goods

Transport in scope 1 for the CEF House fleet data highlights

not included include the canteen emissions, all paper

the dependence on a company fleet as part of overall

products and recycling, as well as other recyclables and

business practice. Effective data collection systems are

waste products. The 2011 footprint provides a benchmark

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apparent that there is an urgent need to incorporate

for scope 3 items: paper consumption, staff commuting

assumptions became apparent. Not all staff travel to work

and travel going forward. Emissions from current scope 3

by the same means, some utilize lifts, and others use the

business activities can be measured and managed in the

bus and/or train services. Staff also does not travel to CEF

quest to becoming more energy efficient and creating

House every day of the week. Assumptions were based on

energy and cost savings. Airline travel makes up the largest

222 working days, which do not include sick-days, working

component of scope 3. During the data analysis it became

from home or meetings with clients to other offices.

clear that not all flights undertaken by CEF House staff were recorded in the data provided by FlyWell, highlighting

Total data input is skewed as there is a lack of the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;total

the need for more effective data capturing systems. The

pictureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of staff commuting. The data sample is based on

current travel emissions are estimated at being higher

39 respondents out of 140 providing a carbon footprint

than what is recorded in this report. It became clear

from commuting estimate of an average of 0.67tCO2 per

during data analysis that many business trips were omitted

person per year. This figure can be refined with more

or not recoded, highlighting the need for a proper and

accurate and all-encompassing data collection from all

more efficient data capture system. The assumptions

staff members. The contribution of commuting emissions

made in the analysis were to include only final city

to the total carbon footprint is 9%.

destinations, no business and first class travel emissions were considered, aeroplane make and type were excluded

Paper only makes up 3% of the total carbon footprint.

and flight emission factors were applied according to

However, it must be noted that no recycling data was

global standards on short, medium and long haul flights.

available to offset any consumption. Only A4 paper data

Data analysis indicates which divisions travel most, as

was applied, no cardboard or other paper sizes and no

well as most travelled-to destinations. Local travel is a

packaging was considered. In future these items could

core activity in CEF House, with most destinations being

be considered and would increase the contribution paper

medium haul flights to Cape Town. This is due to CEF

makes to the overall footprint. Analysing data for the total

having operations in the Western Cape. Future carbon

Scope 3 has highlighted the importance of individualsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

footprints should include widening the boundary to include

behaviour patterns in terms of how we do business and

operations outside of CEF House as well as hotel and car

how goods are consumed, and their eventual emissions

rental emissions.

ratios. It also highlights the needs to widen the boundaries across the wider footprint.

On analysing the data received on staff commuting to and from the CEF House offices, inconsistencies in the data and

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7. Recommendations Understanding the implications of CEF Houseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon

renewable energy generation capacity, particularly in PV

footprint is the first step in gaining an understanding of a

and other solar technologies.

baseline. How to reduce emissions offset the CEF House baseline and increase efficiency is the next crucial step. Based on the information gathered and disseminated in this report, CEF as well as its individual staff members can undertake various initiative to minimize their overall carbon footprint. From a company wide perspective, the largest shortfall identified in the carbon footprint is the lack of appropriate data capturing and recording systems. The information received for all aspects of the carbon footprint were scattered and in some cases not attainable. A sound information recording system would ensure that all necessary information required to undertake a sound carbon footprint are available and reliable at each calendar year end. Each respective department and division within the CEF House could manage invoices and quantitative data for goods and services in a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;carbon footprint friendlyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; format. This can be provided by CEF Carbon to all divisions.

Electricity usage from Eskom is the largest contributor to the CEF House carbon footprint. Given that CEF House already employs energy efficiency measures and solar technologies, focus can be placed on using more energy efficient appliances and office equipment and keep them regularly well-serviced, and making sure that at the end of the business day, plug points are switched off. Flat screen LCD monitors, for example use a third of the electricity of CRT (cathode ray tube) . In the case of energy usage for the air-conditioning system, consideration should be given to switching the unit off at certain hours of the day (by installing an auto switch off program for air conditioners) and opening windows for air flow and cooling. CEF House should consider increasing its

Fuel consumption from the diesel generator is minimal and no recommendations are made in this instance. In times, where the generator has to be used, appliances in the building should be switched off and where applicable to reduce the load until Eskom is back online. CEF House fleet should be utilized in such a manner that usage is monitored on a regular basis. On staff commuting CEF could consider providing a support system that makes provisions for staff transport. As many people live in the same suburb or area, a biodiesel vehicle could provide daily to-and-from transport to a central hub location. Where applicable staff could potentially also work from home and reduce their consumption of fuel. On airline travel, travel could be reduced by combining meetings and business purpose to a single week, eliminating flights to a single destination more than once a week. Travel could also be eliminated in some cases by introducing teleconferencing where applicable. For goods such as paper and paper products, the monitoring and management of recycling should be part of overall emissions management.

Recycling from other waste sources such as plastic, tin, light bulbs etc should be included as part of a waste management and offset scheme. A reduction of energy consumption can take place by changing to energy saving light bulbs, purchasing eco friendly cleaning products and avoiding unnecessary packaging where possible. It is clear that a significant bulk of emissions is behaviour driven. Goods and services incur energy consumption and emissions that affect good business practice and can contribute to an increase in operational liability. On an individual basis, each staff member can contribute in participating to an overall reduction in emissions by

organisationalcarbonfootprint2012

changing certain energy efficiency behaviour. Some of

credits off the carbon markets (either CDM or voluntary)

these actions include:

and cancelling them in the carbon registries as offsets. Many listed companies opt for this option and invest in

•

Switch off computers and other appliances in the

the underlying emission reduction project as part of their

office space when not in use, at the plug point as

overall offset schemes. Companies then list themselves

even on standby they can use 10 – 60% power.

as environmentally responsible and are considered carbon

Close the fridge doors – even a few seconds wastes

neutral.

energy. •

Turn down the water heating setting (just 2 degrees

By providing the foundations for a stable framework

will make a significant saving) and insulate the

on how to reduce the impact of emissions from daily

geysers. •

Fill the kettle with only as much water as you need.

•

Defrost the fridge/freezer regularly.

•

Take the stairs instead of the lift

•

Reduce travel to meetings and reduce air travel and teleconference

•

Drive slower, it is safer and uses less fuel, thus less emissions.

•

operations, the carbon footprint is a valuable management tool that will identify areas of interest and liability and allow for the implementation and management of those risks to create opportunities and assets within operations. The carbon footprint and its implementation contributes to sustainable practice, energy security and cutting costs as well as stakeholder management and corporate social

Reduce paper usage, use both sides, don’t print what

responsibility. CEF House proves itself to be a leader and

you don’t need to, and recycle as much as possible.

professional role model in energy efficiency. To fulfil its

Work from home where possible.

role as a leader in energy efficiency and sound carbon and resource management, a database needs to be developed

The carbon footprint of the CEF House may be offset using

that allows for effective and efficient data capturing

multiple approaches. Certain behavioural changes and

for analysis and management. A carbon management

interventions can reduce the carbon footprint partially,

system, as part of the carbon footprint activity is a sound

while offset schemes can contribute to reducing the

management tool for identifying liabilities and cost items.

balance. Planting trees is a common offset mechanism that companies apply in reducing their overall emissions. According to some organizations, on average one tree will offset 1tCO2 during its full-lifetime of approximately 100 years (Carbon Footprint Ltd, 2011). The actual amount of carbon sequestration varies depending on a number of factors such as the tree type, its location and available growth room. Some trees will offset less than this amount

These can be managed and reduced in such a manner as to allow for the creation of assets or cost reduction activities, leading to an overall increase in business operation efficiency. CEF Carbon will develop the necessary templates for the future applicability of carbon footprint activities to take place effectively and as detailed as possible, for each division for CEF House going forward.

of CO2, whilst others will offset more during their lifetime. Other offset mechanisms include purchasing carbon

organisationalcarbonfootprint2012

Conclusion

The responses to data collection activities have

standards, striving towards improved expectations and

demonstrated an improvement on the previous yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

accountability. The current carbon footprint approach aims

data collection methods, with more detail and positive

at providing primarily a basic and quantitative account

staff disclosure and commitment to provide information.

of emissions at CEF House, with the purpose of providing

The results of the 2011 carbon footprint has highlighted

more detailed and qualitative data analysis with each

the need for new, internal corporate objectives to

calendar year. Following the market trends on carbon

encourage the development of an annual CEF House

disclosure and accountability, CEF House has placed itself

carbon footprint, with the opportunity to include all

on the sustainable organizations list not only to showcase

of CEFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s operations outside of CEF House. With each

its ambitions toward corporate social and environmental

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s analysis the quality and quantity of data input

responsibility, but to seek and showcase a low carbon

and analysis refines the scope and boundary to higher

profile.

9. References DEFRA (2008). Guidelines to GHG Conversion Factors, Annexes updated April 2008, pg 11. Dias, A.C., L, Arroja, et al. (2007). Life Cycle Assessment of Printing and Writing Paper produced in Protugal. International journal of Life Cycle Assessment 12(7). GreenBiz (2009). What’s the carbon footprint of your toilet paper? Retrieved 23 February 2012, from www.greenbiz.com/ blog/2009/05/04/whats-carbon-footprint-your-toilet-paper Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard www.ghgprotocol.org/standards/corporate-standard Carbon Trust (2012). Resource conversion factors, from www.carbontrust.co.uk/cut-carbon-reduce-costs/calculate/carbonfootprinting/pages/conversion-factors.aspx . Claudia, A. and Arroja, L. (2012). Comparison of carbon footprint calculation methodologies applied to office paper, Journal of Cleaner Production, Vol. 24, Pages 30-35. Letete, T.C.M., Mungwe, N.W., Guma, M. and Marquard, A. (2011). Carbon Footprint of the University of Cape Town, Journal of Energy in Southern Africa, Vol. 22 No. 2. Eskom Holdings Limited (2010). ESKOM Annual Report, Environmental Implications of using or saving one kilowatt-hour of electricity, p299 Ross, D. (2009). GHG Emissions Resulting from Aircraft Travel, v 9.2, Carbon Planet. The Guardian (2010). What’s the carbon footprint of drying your hands? Retrieved 15 February 2012, from www.guardian. co.uk/environment/green-living-blog/2010/aug/05/carbon-footprint-drying-hands. Travel Math (2012). Travel Calculator, from http://www.travelmath.com/flying-distance/ UNFCCC (2012).

Note Cover photo: www.detectenery.com

Appendices Appendix 1: Summary of total emission data