How to reduce company emissions and improve air quality

The global warming is mainly caused by human activities, such as the burning of fossil fuels, deforestation and carbon-intensive industrial processes. These factors alter air quality, the water cycle and food security, causing CO₂ levels to rise historically. Sea level rise is now irreversible, with effects affecting every ecosystem. For this reason, companies can no longer delay: measuring their emissions, planning mitigation actions and adopting strategies in line with global climate goals is imperative. The transition to low-emission models is not only an environmental duty, but also a lever for competitiveness and resilience.

The Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) offers a clear and scientifically based model for setting emission reduction targets aligned with the Paris Agreement and the 1.5°C global increase ceiling. The pathway consists of five stages: from formal commitment to target setting, validation, communication and monitoring. SBTi is a partnership between CDP, UN Global Compact, WRI and WWF, involving numerous companies worldwide. Joining means having a concrete climate roadmap, reducing the risks of the transition and effectively meeting the expectations of customers, investors and regulators. A Net-Zero strategy enhances reputation and helps improve air quality by reducing harmful emissions at source

The first step in reducing emissions is to measure the company's carbon footprint, i.e. the total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly and indirectly by activities. This value, expressed in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent, makes it possible to identify the most critical areas for action, considering energy consumption, logistics and end-product use. Calculating the carbon footprint and communicating it transparently to stakeholders and third parties such as CDP ensures accountability and facilitates the construction of an effective climate strategy. Actions such as the transition to renewable energy, energy efficiency and the replacement of carbon-intensive materials are derived from reliable and up-to-date data.

In addition to the company's carbon footprint, assessing the environmental impact of individual products with the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is crucial. This methodology analyses each stage of the product life cycle, from raw material production to disposal, including transport and use. The circular approach highlights critical environmental issues and reduces emissions, waste and consumption along the supply chain. LCA considers impacts such as greenhouse gas emissions, water consumption, land use, smog and particulate matter formation. Improving product sustainability also contributes to improving air quality, especially in the upstream and downstream phases where indirect emissions are concentrated. Companies that adopt LCA innovate responsibly and offer added value to sustainability-conscious consumers.

Investing in emissions reduction generates concrete benefits in the medium and long term. More sustainable companies improve operational efficiency, reduce energy costs and increase resilience to market shocks, such as raw material prices. Moreover, a recognised environmental commitment strengthens brand reputation and attracts talent, customers and investors sensitive to ESG criteria. Lower local and global emissions contribute directly to better air quality, with benefits for public health and urban livability. In short, a science-based climate strategy enables companies to be a leader in the ecological transition, creating environmental, social and economic value.

This article has been realised within the project "Biodiversity services EU expansion" (CUP: E43D22000480009) in the framework of the Lombardy Region's call for tenders "PR FESR 2021-2027 - LINEA INTERNAZIONALIZZAZIONE 21-27", aimed at supporting the internationalisation of Italian companies. 3Bee is the naturetech company that develops innovative technologies for monitoring, protecting and regenerating biodiversity, supporting companies in defining customised climate strategies based on the analysis of their impacts and dependencies on nature. With an established portfolio in Italy, Germany and France and prominent partnerships, 3Bee continues its expansion into international markets to create real impact through technology.