Sustainability Glossary
Clear, expert definitions for every sustainability, ESG, and environmental term. Each explained with real-world examples by verified professionals.
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Carbon Footprint
A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases (including CO₂ and methane) generated by an individual, organization, event, or product, usually expressed in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e).
Emissions & CarbonCarbon Neutral
Carbon neutral means that any CO₂ released into the atmosphere by an entity is balanced by an equivalent amount of CO₂ removed or offset, resulting in zero net carbon emissions for a defined period.
Emissions & CarbonCircular Economy
A circular economy is an economic model that eliminates waste and pollution by keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible, then regenerating natural systems at end of life.
Circular EconomyE
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Scope 1, 2, and 3 Emissions
Scope 1, 2, and 3 are categories defined by the GHG Protocol that classify greenhouse gas emissions by their source: direct operations (Scope 1), purchased energy (Scope 2), and value chain activities (Scope 3).
Emissions & CarbonSustainability Score
A sustainability score is a numerical rating that quantifies an individual's or organization's environmental, social, and governance performance across multiple dimensions on a standardized scale.
GeneralSustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The SDGs are 17 interconnected global goals adopted by all 193 United Nations member states in 2015, designed to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all by 2030.
Frameworks & StandardsGo beyond definitions
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