5 Steps to Kickstart Your Carbon Reporting Process

If your business is just starting to look at carbon reporting, you’re not alone — and you’re not behind. Whether it's to meet stakeholder expectations, prepare for future regulation, or just do the right thing, carbon reporting is fast becoming a core part of good business practice. But knowing where to start can feel like navigating a maze. This post breaks it down into five clear, actionable steps to help you get going, even if you’re starting from scratch.

1. Understand the Basics: What Are You Reporting?

Before diving in, it’s important to know what carbon reporting actually involves. In simple terms, you’re measuring the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with your business activities. These are typically broken down into:

• Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned sources (e.g. company vehicles, gas boilers)

• Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, steam, heating, and cooling

• Scope 3: All other indirect emissions — often the biggest and hardest to measure (e.g. supply chain, commuting, business travel)

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You don’t need to tackle all three scopes at once, but having an awareness of the full picture will help shape your approach.

2. Get Your Team Involved Early in the Carbon Reporting Process

Carbon reporting isn’t just an environmental issue — it’s an operational one. You’ll need input from finance, HR, procurement, IT, and facilities, so bring them in early. Explain the goals and benefits clearly: reduced risk, improved efficiency, stronger reputation, and compliance with upcoming regulations.

Nominate a lead or working group to own the process and keep momentum going.

3. Choose the Right Tools or Partners

You don’t have to do it all manually. There are plenty of carbon accounting platforms designed for businesses of all sizes, helping you track and calculate emissions efficiently. Alternatively, a sustainability consultant or carbon reporting partner can help if you don’t have in-house expertise. Look for tools that align with recognised frameworks like the GHG Protocol or SECR (Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting) if you’re in the UK.

4. Start With What You Know

You won’t have perfect data from day one — and that’s okay. Start by collecting information you already have: utility bills, business mileage, procurement records. This gives you a rough baseline and helps you identify the gaps. You can then begin to improve your data quality over time. Transparency and intention matter more than perfection in the early stages.

5. Set Clear Goals and Commit to Action

Once you’ve got a basic picture of your carbon footprint, use it to set realistic, meaningful goals. This might include:

• Reducing energy use across your sites

• Switching to renewable electricity

• Working with suppliers to cut Scope 3 emissions

Report your progress internally and externally, and build in regular reviews. Sustainability isn’t a one-off project, it’s a mindset shift that requires ongoing commitment.

Final Thought:

Carbon reporting doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a practical plan, the right tools, and a bit of cross-team collaboration, you’ll be well on your way to building a more responsible, and resilient, business.