Even if you are able to construct your carbon footprint yourself, you may still want external partners to scrutinize and further refine your data and processes. If you are confident in your accounting and have expert resources in-house, consider a third-party to verify your carbon neutrality pledge and ensure credibility. Make sure your data and processes are fully auditable.

Greenhouse gas accounting is a highly technical process. Unless you have prior experience with measuring your emissions, you should consider a partner with in-depth knowledge of greenhouse gas accounting and reporting frameworks. They can guide you through the process and teach you how to build a self-sustaining program over time.

If you already have the experience and expertise required to reduce your emissions, you may choose not to sign external help for this part of your carbon neutrality pledge. However, you must remain critical of your business practices and try to take on an outside perspective when looking for how to improve. Find out what other companies are doing, to expand your view.

Reducing emission may require process or site audits and advanced analysis. Invest in experts who can help identify potential savings. For example, an external energy efficiency expert can find ways to optimize energy use (and reveal savings that pay their own fee). Sometimes reducing emissions requires upfront investment. Utilize your business case to show the long-term returns.

You are quite advanced, well done! Remember to account for local differences in the energy market. The regulations that apply in one geography are not necessarily the same as in the neighboring country. In addition, several renewable energy options require thorough knowledge regarding the development of energy markets and prices.

Consider a partner with strong experience in Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs), Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) or on-site renewable energy installations (e.g., solar or wind power). Partners for on-site installations usually specialize in that field. Due to stark differences in regulations between countries, your best bet may be a partner located in the country where you operate.

Consider a partner with a strong carbon offset portfolio. The process for purchasing carbon credits is straightforward, but you need to choose from a plethora of credit options. Seek guidance to ensure the carbon offsets you acquire come from projects that fit your specific requirements, for instance the type of project, its environmental or social benefits and the highest verification standards.

You clearly have a lot of knowledge about carbon credits already! Keep in mind you may benefit from buying credits through an expert climate consultancy that sources credits for other clients as well. They will usually be able to secure better prices due to the combined volume.

Consultancy capabilities vary when it comes to working as your strategic partner and sounding board, developing your program and offering proactive advice. Aim for a partner with a record of working with other sustainability leaders and check their references. Be aware that offering strategic and proactive advice is at the high-end of the service spectrum and may require extra budget.

Becoming carbon neutral is, in itself, an ambitious emission reduction program and shows you are on the frontlines of sustainable business development. There’s nothing wrong with simply signing a partner who will help you with specific carbon neutrality workstreams, but not develop your program further unless you ask.