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Scope 3 Emissions
Definition
Scope 3 Emissions — Indirect emissions across the value chain — usually a company's largest footprint.
1 min
Read time
Shopping term
Label type
2
Key points
At a glance
Greenhouse-gas emissions are categorised into three scopes by the GHG Protocol.
For most consumer brands Scope 3 is 70–95% of the total footprint.
Greenhouse-gas emissions are categorised into three scopes by the GHG Protocol. Scope 1 is direct emissions (a company's own fuel, vehicles). Scope 2 is purchased energy. Scope 3 covers everything else — supplier emissions, customer use of the product, transport, waste, business travel.
For most consumer brands Scope 3 is 70–95% of the total footprint. A serious sustainability commitment names a Scope 3 reduction target; one that ignores Scope 3 is usually greenwashing.
How to check this before you buy
1Look for "Scope 3 Emissions" on the pack or the Amazon UK listing itself, not just in the brand's marketing.
2Ask whether the claim is backed by a named standard or independent body, or is just a description.
3Check whether the claim covers the exact product and size you're buying, not only the wider brand.
4Compare at least two alternatives on Pickly before deciding.