Net Zero requires reductions and offsetting.

Carbon Offset Case Study: Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Ltd.’s Carbon Offsetting Strategy

Introduction: The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) Ltd. is a United Kingdom-based organization that represents and advocates for the aluminium fenestration, façade, and building systems industry. CAB serves as a valuable resource and support network for its members, which include manufacturers, suppliers, and installers of aluminium products used in the construction sector. CAB’s mission is to provide technical expertise, guidance, and advocacy for its members while promoting the benefits of using aluminium in building projects.

Rationale for Carbon Neutrality: CAB recognized the importance of addressing its carbon footprint and chose to pursue carbon neutrality in alignment with the WRI Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Reporting and Accounting Standard. The scope of this commitment encompassed all Scope 1 and 2 emissions, with an additional ambition to include select Scope 3 emissions where influence and measurement feasibility existed.

Emissions Assessment Process: To achieve this goal, CAB engaged Blue Marble, a sustainability consulting firm, to compile and develop the GHG Inventory and corresponding GHG Report. This process adhered to the requirements of ISO 14064-1 and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol Corporate Reporting and Accounting Standard, with emissions factors sourced primarily from the UK Government Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs.

Emissions Breakdown: The emissions assessment revealed the following figures for CAB’s carbon footprint:

• Scope 1 emissions: 2.0 tonnes CO2e, primarily attributed to company cars.
• Scope 2 emissions: 3.2 tonnes CO2e, mainly related to electricity consumption in office facilities.
• Scope 3 emissions: 10.9 tonnes CO2e, with a significant portion linked to commuting.

The total carbon emissions for CAB amounted to 16.08 tonnes CO2e.

Offsetting Program: To offset their carbon emissions, CAB chose to invest in the Eglence I-II Hydroelectric Power Plant project located in Turkey. This project adheres to the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) and offsets a volume of 17 tonnes of CO2e. By participating in this initiative, CAB is actively contributing to emissions reduction and sustainable energy generation.

Carbon Neutrality Achievement: Council for Aluminium in Building Ltd. successfully achieved carbon neutrality for its global operations. This achievement was certified by Blue Marble in August 2023, in accordance with their rigorous standards.

Conclusion: CAB’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality underscores its dedication to environmental responsibility within the aluminium industry. By addressing emissions from its operations and taking concrete steps to offset its carbon footprint, CAB demonstrates leadership and sets a positive example for its members and the construction sector at large. This case study serves as an illustration of how industry organizations can take proactive measures to mitigate their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.