Identification of upstream emissions on the basis of selected medium-sized companies on the way to climate neutrality within the framework of the project “Klimaverbund Mittelstand”.
Client
Der Mittelstandsverbund – ZGV e.V. / Project Climate Network
Duration October 2021 – Oktober 2022

Background
The project “Klimaverbund Mittelstand” is intended to support medium-sized companies in their efforts to reduce GHG emissions through climate protection advice by so-called “Klimaprofis” in energy efficiency and resource management. A total of about 1,000 consultations are expected to save about 50,000 t of greenhouse gas emissions.
Goals
The study aims to identify the Scope 3 emissions of the companies and to address them through suitable recommendations for action. However, by analysing the upstream value chain, not only GHG emissions can be identified and reduced, but also climate-induced opportunities and risks can be recognised. Furthermore, a guideline for use by climate professionals is to be developed on the basis of the findings obtained, in order to enable a further analysis of emissions and the implementation of climate protection and savings measures.
Tasks of IREES
Literature review regarding scope 3 emissions in companies and accounting methods
Analysis of upstream scope 3 emissions based on two selected companies
Accounting of Scope 3 emissions in companies with focus on products
Identification of emission hotspots in the companies
Derivation of recommendations for action for the selected companies
Summary of the results in the form of a guideline for further analyses by “Klimaprofis”
Project partner
Öko-Institut (Overall project management)
Fraunhofer ISI