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GHG Emissions Inventory & Carbon Assessment
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Carbon Footprint Study & GHG Emissions Assessment Services in India
Carbon Footprint Assessment, Carbon Footprint Audit & GHG Emissions Inventory for Indian Industries
Elion Technologies & Consulting Pvt. Ltd. delivers independent carbon footprint studies and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions inventories for industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities across India. Studies are conducted in accordance with ISO 14064-1, the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard, and India’s BRSR/SEBI reporting framework. Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions are quantified, documented, and reported with a corrective reduction roadmap.
ISO 14064-1
GHG Protocol
PAS 2060
BRSR / SEBI
ISO 14001:2015
BEE Certified
ISO 50001:2018
Since 2010
Delhi NCR — Track Record
Audits Done
0
k
Years Since 2010
0
+
Disciplines
0
+
Electrical Capability
0
kV
- Scope 1, 2 & 3 emissions inventory
- ISO 14064 & GHG Protocol aligned
- BRSR / SEBI compliant reporting
- Carbon reduction roadmap included
- Manufacturing, IT, logistics, hospitals
30,000+
Audits Completed
Since 2010
Independent Practice
ISO 14064
GHG Protocol Aligned
BRSR
SEBI Compliant Reporting
Carbon Footprint Study for Manufacturing, IT, Logistics, Hospitals & Commercial Facilities in India — ISO 14064, GHG Protocol & BRSR Compliant
Elion Technologies & Consulting Pvt. Ltd. is an independent engineering audit authority established in 2010, delivering third-party carbon footprint studies and GHG emissions inventories for Indian industries. 30,000+ audits completed. ISO 9001 · 14001 · 50001 certified. BEE Certified Energy Auditor. NSIC Approved. Pan-India execution — no subcontracting.
A carbon footprint study (also referred to as a carbon footprint assessment, carbon footprint audit, GHG emissions inventory, carbon audit, greenhouse gas assessment, or carbon analysis) is a structured quantification of all greenhouse gas emissions generated by an organisation, facility, product, or supply chain, expressed in tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e). Elion Technologies conducts independent, third-party carbon footprint studies for Indian industries in accordance with internationally recognised standards, enabling regulatory compliance, investor disclosure, and evidence-based emission reduction. Whether your requirement is a Scope 1 and 2 GHG inventory for BRSR disclosure, a full Scope 3 value chain carbon assessment, a product carbon footprint (PCF) for export customers, or a carbon neutrality study under PAS 2060, Elion’s engineering team delivers a documented, independently prepared report suited to the purpose.
GHG Emissions Scope
Scope 1, Scope 2 & Scope 3 Emissions — What Gets Measured
A comprehensive carbon footprint study quantifies emissions across all three scopes defined by the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1. The scope boundaries and emission sources covered are agreed with the client before data collection begins.
Scope 1 — Direct
Direct GHG Emissions
Emissions from sources owned or directly controlled by the organisation. These are the most controllable and typically the first target for reduction initiatives.
Fuel combustion (boilers, furnaces, diesel gensets)
Company-owned vehicles and fleet
Fugitive refrigerant releases
On-site process emissions (chemical reactions)
On-site waste treatment
Scope 2 — Indirect (Energy)
Purchased Energy Emissions
Indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity, steam, heat, or cooling consumed by the organisation. Reported using both location-based and market-based methods.
Grid electricity consumption
Purchased steam or chilled water
District heating and cooling
Renewable energy certificates (RECs)
Scope 3 — Value Chain
Value Chain Emissions
All other indirect emissions in the organisation's upstream and downstream value chain. Increasingly required by BRSR, investor ESG frameworks, and supply chain customers.
Purchased goods & raw materials
Upstream transportation & logistics
Business travel & employee commuting
Downstream distribution & product use
End-of-life product treatment
Study Methodology
How Elion Conducts a Carbon Footprint Study
Each carbon footprint assessment follows a structured, documented process from boundary setting to final report. The methodology is aligned with ISO 14064-1 and the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard.
STEP 01
Organisational Boundary Setting
Define the study boundary — operational control, financial control, or equity share approach. Agree on reporting year, facility scope, and consolidation methodology before any data is collected.
STEP 02
Emission Source Identification
Identify all stationary combustion, mobile combustion, process, fugitive, and purchased energy sources. Map sources against Scope 1, 2, and 3 categories using site walkthrough and equipment data review.
STEP 03
Activity Data Collection
Collect primary activity data — fuel invoices, electricity meter records, refrigerant logs, production data, fleet records, and logistics data. A structured data request checklist is issued to the client team.
STEP 04
Emissions Calculation
Apply emission factors from IPCC, MoEFCC, CEA (India grid), or supplier-specific sources. Calculate CO₂e for each source and aggregate by scope. Data quality and uncertainty are assessed per ISO 14064-1 requirements.
STEP 05
Verification & Internal QA
Independent internal review of calculations, emission factors, and boundary assumptions before report issue. Material data gaps are flagged and quantified. All supporting data is retained for third-party verification if required.
STEP 06
Report & Reduction Roadmap
Issue a final GHG inventory report with emissions by scope, source, and facility. Include a prioritised carbon reduction roadmap with quantified reduction opportunities, estimated effort, and recommended timeline.
Standards & Compliance
International Standards & Indian Regulatory Frameworks
Elion’s carbon footprint studies are aligned with the frameworks required by Indian regulators, international standard bodies, and institutional investors. Each study identifies which standards apply to the client’s reporting obligations.
| Standard | Application |
|---|---|
|
ISO 14064-1
|
Organisational-level GHG quantification, monitoring, and reporting — the primary international standard for GHG inventories |
|
GHG Protocol
|
WRI / WBCSD Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard — globally recognised methodology for Scope 1, 2, and 3 |
|
PAS 2060
|
Specification for carbon neutrality — used for net-zero and carbon neutrality claims and supporting documentation |
|
BRSR / SEBI
|
Business Responsibility & Sustainability Reporting — mandatory Scope 1 & 2 disclosure for top 1,000 listed companies from FY 2022-23 |
|
BEE / PAT
|
Bureau of Energy Efficiency — Perform, Achieve and Trade scheme energy and emissions requirements for designated consumers |
|
MoEFCC
|
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change — India-specific emission factors and national GHG inventory guidelines |
|
ISO 14001
|
Environmental Management System — integrates carbon footprint data into broader environmental performance tracking |
BRSR Mandatory Disclosure: SEBI has made BRSR mandatory for the top 1,000 listed companies by market capitalisation from FY 2022-23 onwards. The framework requires quantitative disclosure of Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions. Elion's carbon footprint studies produce report outputs directly aligned with BRSR disclosure requirements.
How Elion Helps with ISO 14064 Compliance
Elion conducts the organisational GHG inventory in accordance with ISO 14064-1 clause requirements — covering quantification, documentation, monitoring plans, and data quality assessment. The final report is structured for third-party verification if required by the client’s disclosure commitments.
GHG Protocol — Scope 3 Reporting
Full Scope 3 assessments follow the GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard. Elion prioritises material Scope 3 categories based on the client’s sector, using a screening assessment to identify which of the 15 Scope 3 categories are most significant.
Carbon Neutrality & Net-Zero (PAS 2060)
For clients pursuing carbon neutrality claims, Elion structures the study to meet PAS 2060 requirements — including the Carbon Footprint Management Plan (CFMP), reduction commitments, and residual emission offsetting documentation.
India Grid Emission Factors
Scope 2 electricity emissions are calculated using the latest Central Electricity Authority (CEA) published grid emission factors for the relevant regional grid, ensuring accuracy for Indian facilities.
Standards & Compliance
International Standards & Indian Regulatory Frameworks
Elion’s carbon footprint studies are aligned with the frameworks required by Indian regulators, international standard bodies, and institutional investors. Each study identifies which standards apply to the client’s reporting obligations.
| Standard | Application |
|---|---|
|
ISO 14064-1
|
Organisational-level GHG quantification, monitoring, and reporting — the primary international standard for GHG inventories |
|
GHG Protocol
|
WRI / WBCSD Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard — globally recognised methodology for Scope 1, 2, and 3 |
|
PAS 2060
|
Specification for carbon neutrality — used for net-zero and carbon neutrality claims and supporting documentation |
|
BRSR / SEBI
|
Business Responsibility & Sustainability Reporting — mandatory Scope 1 & 2 disclosure for top 1,000 listed companies from FY 2022-23 |
|
BEE / PAT
|
Bureau of Energy Efficiency — Perform, Achieve and Trade scheme energy and emissions requirements for designated consumers |
|
MoEFCC
|
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change — India-specific emission factors and national GHG inventory guidelines |
|
ISO 14001
|
Environmental Management System — integrates carbon footprint data into broader environmental performance tracking |
BRSR Mandatory Disclosure: SEBI has made BRSR mandatory for the top 1,000 listed companies by market capitalisation from FY 2022-23 onwards. The framework requires quantitative disclosure of Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions. Elion's carbon footprint studies produce report outputs directly aligned with BRSR disclosure requirements.
How Elion Helps with ISO 14064 Compliance
Elion conducts the organisational GHG inventory in accordance with ISO 14064-1 clause requirements — covering quantification, documentation, monitoring plans, and data quality assessment. The final report is structured for third-party verification if required by the client’s disclosure commitments.
GHG Protocol — Scope 3 Reporting
Full Scope 3 assessments follow the GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard. Elion prioritises material Scope 3 categories based on the client’s sector, using a screening assessment to identify which of the 15 Scope 3 categories are most significant.
Carbon Neutrality & Net-Zero (PAS 2060)
For clients pursuing carbon neutrality claims, Elion structures the study to meet PAS 2060 requirements — including the Carbon Footprint Management Plan (CFMP), reduction commitments, and residual emission offsetting documentation.
India Grid Emission Factors
Scope 2 electricity emissions are calculated using the latest Central Electricity Authority (CEA) published grid emission factors for the relevant regional grid, ensuring accuracy for Indian facilities.
Why Conduct a Carbon Footprint Study
Benefits of an Independent Carbon Footprint Assessment
A third-party carbon footprint study provides the credibility, rigour, and documentation that internal assessments cannot. Outputs are used for regulatory compliance, investor ESG disclosure, supply chain requirements, and emissions reduction planning.
Regulatory Compliance
Meet BRSR/SEBI disclosure mandates, BEE/PAT reporting requirements, and environmental clearance conditions with a structured, documented GHG inventory produced by qualified engineers.
Investor & ESG Disclosure
Provide institutional investors, lenders, and rating agencies with verified GHG data for CDP, DJSI, MSCI, and other ESG frameworks. Independent studies carry greater credibility than self-reported figures.
Supply Chain Requirements
Meet Scope 3 data requests from multinational customers and export market buyers who require supplier emissions data as part of their own carbon footprint reporting obligations.
Emission Reduction Roadmap
Identify the highest-impact, most cost-effective emission reduction opportunities across your operations. Elion's reports include a prioritised action plan with estimated CO₂e reduction potential per initiative.
Net-Zero & Carbon Neutrality
Establish a credible baseline for Science-Based Targets (SBTi), net-zero commitments, or PAS 2060 carbon neutrality claims. Without a verified baseline, reduction claims cannot be substantiated.
Operational Cost Reduction
GHG emission sources are directly linked to energy consumption and material inefficiency. Reducing emissions in Scope 1 and 2 typically reduces energy costs — the carbon footprint study identifies where.
Service Scope
Carbon Footprint & GHG Services We Offer
Elion provides a range of carbon footprint and GHG-related services from initial inventory to carbon neutrality certification support. Each service is delivered by in-house qualified engineers; no subcontracting.
Organisational Carbon Footprint Study
Full Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions inventory for a single facility or multi-site organisation. Includes emission source identification, activity data collection, calculation, and a structured final report aligned with ISO 14064-1 and GHG Protocol.
ISO 14064-1 · GHG Protocol
Scope 3 Value Chain Assessment
Identification and quantification of material Scope 3 emission categories across the upstream and downstream value chain, using GHG Protocol Scope 3 Standard. Includes screening assessment to prioritise the 15 Scope 3 categories by materiality.
GHG Protocol Scope 3
Product Carbon Footprint (PCF) Assessment
Cradle-to-gate, cradle-to-grave, or cradle-to-cradle lifecycle GHG assessment for a specific product or product line, following ISO 14067 or the GHG Protocol Product Standard. Supports export market Scope 3 data requests.
ISO 14067 · GHG Protocol Product
BRSR Carbon Disclosure Support
Preparation and documentation of GHG emissions data for mandatory BRSR disclosure as required by SEBI for top-1000 listed companies. Includes Scope 1 and 2 quantification, data quality review, and BRSR-format reporting outputs.
BRSR · SEBI · ISO 14064
Carbon Reduction Roadmap
Post-inventory analysis identifying prioritised emission reduction opportunities by scope and source, with estimated CO₂e reduction potential, indicative cost, and recommended implementation timeline. Supports Science-Based Targets (SBTi) alignment.
SBTi · PAS 2060 · ISO 14064
Carbon Neutrality Assessment (PAS 2060)
End-to-end support for organisations pursuing verified carbon neutrality claims under PAS 2060, including Carbon Footprint Management Plan (CFMP) preparation, reduction commitment documentation, and residual offset guidance.
PAS 2060 · ISO 14064
Industry Coverage
Carbon Footprint Studies by Industry
Emission source profiles, applicable standards, and reduction levers vary significantly by sector. Elion configures the study methodology and emission factor selection for each industry type.
Manufacturing
High Scope 1 intensity from combustion and process emissions. Energy efficiency and fuel switching are primary reduction levers. PAT scheme compliance often requires GHG data.
IT & Data Centres
Dominated by Scope 2 from electricity. PUE optimisation, renewable energy procurement, and REC purchase are key abatement strategies. Increasingly required by hyperscaler customers.
Logistics & Transport
High Scope 1 from fleet fuel and Scope 3 from freight. Fleet electrification, route optimisation, and load efficiency are primary reduction opportunities. Key for Scope 3 reporting of manufacturing clients.
Hospitals & Healthcare
Mixed Scope 1 (medical gases, boilers), Scope 2, and significant Scope 3 from pharmaceuticals and medical supplies. Sustainability reporting increasingly required by accreditation bodies.
Hospitality
Energy-intensive facilities with significant Scope 1 (HVAC, kitchens) and Scope 2 exposure. Guest sustainability preferences and hotel chain ESG requirements drive carbon footprint assessment demand.
Chemical & Pharma
Complex Scope 1 process emissions alongside high Scope 2 from energy-intensive production. HAZOP and environmental audit scope often overlaps with carbon footprint assessment requirements.
Infrastructure & Utilities
Large Scope 1 emission sources from owned generation and transmission losses. GHG inventory supports regulatory reporting, green financing, and infrastructure ESG frameworks.
Retail & FMCG
Scope 3 dominates due to upstream supply chain and product end-of-life. Scope 2 is significant for large store formats. Retail chains increasingly required to disclose supply chain emissions.
India — Sector Context
Carbon Footprint Study for Indian Industries
India’s regulatory landscape, emission factor framework, and sectoral GHG profiles require a study methodology calibrated for Indian facilities — not a generic international template. Elion’s carbon footprint studies use India-specific emission factors, account for domestic regulatory obligations, and are structured for the disclosure requirements Indian companies actually face.
MANUFACTURING
Carbon Footprint Study for Manufacturing Companies in India
Manufacturing is India’s largest source of industrial GHG emissions. Scope 1 is typically dominated by combustion in furnaces, boilers, and kilns, often using coal or heavy fuel oil. Elion’s studies for manufacturing clients apply MoEFCC and BEE emission factors for Indian fuel types, cover PAT scheme designated consumer obligations, and produce outputs directly usable for BRSR Scope 1 and 2 disclosure.
Relevant: Energy Audit — energy data from an energy audit directly feeds Scope 1 & 2 calculations, reducing data collection time.
IT & DATA CENTRES
Carbon Footprint Study for IT & Data Centres in India
India’s IT sector — the largest in the world by headcount — faces increasing pressure from multinational clients and investors to disclose Scope 1 and 2 emissions and supply Scope 3 data. Indian grid emission factors vary significantly by state and DISCOM; Elion applies the latest CEA regional grid emission factors to ensure Scope 2 accuracy. DG set fuel and UPS-linked Scope 1 emissions are also quantified. Carbon intensity per rack unit or per employee FTE is calculated where required.
Typically combined with Energy Audit for PUE optimisation and Scope 2 reduction planning.
LISTED COMPANIES — BRSR
BRSR Carbon Disclosure for SEBI-Listed Companies
SEBI’s BRSR framework requires India’s top 1,000 listed companies to disclose Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions quantitatively from FY 2022-23. Many companies currently lack a structured methodology or audit trail for these disclosures. Elion produces BRSR-ready GHG inventory reports — with all calculations, emission factors, data sources, and boundary assumptions documented — suitable for inclusion in the annual report and for review by statutory auditors.
See also: Environmental Audit for broader BRSR environmental disclosure support.
EXPORT-ORIENTED UNITS
Carbon Footprint Study for Export-Oriented Indian Manufacturers
Indian exporters — particularly in textiles, auto components, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals — are increasingly receiving Scope 3 data requests from European and North American buyers. The EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and evolving supply chain due diligence regulations are accelerating this. Elion’s carbon footprint studies for export-oriented manufacturers produce supplier GHG data in formats compatible with major customer reporting templates and the GHG Protocol Scope 3 Standard.
Methodology aligned with Elion’s Engineering Audit Methodology & Independence Framework.
LOGISTICS & TRANSPORT
Carbon Footprint Study for Logistics & Transport Companies in India
India’s logistics sector — road freight, warehousing, last-mile delivery — is a significant contributor to Scope 1 emissions through fleet fuel consumption and to Scope 3 emissions for their manufacturing clients. Fleet-level emission factors for Indian fuel types (BS-VI diesel, CNG) are applied. Warehouse Scope 2 emissions from grid electricity are quantified using state-specific CEA grid factors. The study supports GLEC Framework alignment for logistics decarbonisation.
Often combined with Environmental Audit for fleet and warehouse environmental compliance.
HOSPITALITY & REAL ESTATE
Carbon Footprint Study for Hotels & Commercial Real Estate in India
Indian hotel chains and commercial real estate portfolios — especially those with international brand affiliations or listed holding companies — face BRSR disclosure obligations and growing pressure from international property investors for verified GHG data. Elion conducts multi-property Scope 1 and 2 inventories with standardised data collection templates across locations, producing consistent cross-portfolio reporting. IGBC and LEED-aligned boundary documentation is available.
Review our independence framework to understand how Elion maintains audit objectivity across multi-site programmes.
Anonymised Case Studies
Carbon Footprint Study — Selected Project Outcomes
The following anonymised case studies illustrate the outcomes Elion’s carbon footprint studies have delivered for Indian industrial and commercial clients.
Manufacturing · North India
Automotive Component Manufacturer — Scope 1 & 2 Inventory
A multi-facility automotive components manufacturer with three plants in northern India required an ISO 14064-1 aligned GHG inventory for BRSR disclosure and a key OEM customer's Scope 3 reporting requirement. Elion conducted a full Scope 1 and 2 inventory across all three sites, including furnace combustion, compressed air systems, and grid electricity.
The inventory identified fuel switching in furnace operations and compressed air system upgrades as the two highest-impact reduction opportunities.
3 sites covered
ISO 14064-1 aligned
~18% Scope 1 reduction potential identified
IT / Data Centre · West India
Tier III Data Centre — Carbon Footprint & PUE Analysis
A commercial data centre operator in western India required a carbon footprint assessment for a hyperscaler customer's Scope 3 supplier reporting requirement and internal ESG disclosure. The study covered Scope 1 (DG set fuel), Scope 2 (grid and UPS electricity), and selected Scope 3 categories. PUE and carbon intensity per rack unit were calculated alongside the GHG inventory.
Scope 1, 2 & 3
PUE carbon intensity calculated
~22% Scope 2 reduction roadmap
Hospitality · South India
Five-Star Hotel Group — BRSR Carbon Disclosure
A listed hotel group with properties across South India required GHG emissions data for mandatory BRSR disclosure. Elion conducted Scope 1 and 2 inventories across five properties, standardised the data collection methodology across sites, and produced BRSR-format output tables ready for inclusion in the annual report.
5 properties
BRSR-ready output
SEBI compliant disclosure
Chemical · Gujarat
Specialty Chemical Plant — Full Scope 1, 2 & 3 Assessment
A specialty chemicals manufacturer in Gujarat required a comprehensive GHG inventory including process emissions, fugitive releases, and a Scope 3 screening assessment, in preparation for a net-zero commitment and SBTi target setting. The inventory revealed that process emissions accounted for over 60% of total Scope 1, reframing the reduction strategy away from energy and towards process optimisation.
Full Scope 1, 2 & 3
SBTi baseline established
~20% total reduction identified in year 1
Geographic Coverage
Carbon Footprint Studies Across India
Elion conducts carbon footprint studies and GHG emissions inventories for facilities across India. Core study functions are performed by in-house engineers — no subcontracting. Pan-India coverage includes all major industrial and commercial centres.
Commission a Study
Ready to quantify your organisation's carbon footprint?
Submit your facility details and reporting requirements. Our team will provide a scoped technical proposal within a defined period.
Related Engineering & Sustainability Services
Related Engineering & Sustainability Services
A carbon footprint study works best as part of a broader sustainability and engineering audit programme. The services below are commonly commissioned alongside or following a carbon footprint assessment.
Environmental Audit
Environmental Compliance Audit
Systematic assessment of environmental management systems, regulatory compliance, and operational environmental impacts across air, water, land, and noise — supports broader BRSR environmental disclosure.
Energy Audit
Energy Audit
Detailed energy flow analysis and consumption benchmarking in line with BEE guidelines and ISO 50001. Energy audit data directly feeds Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions calculations, reducing data collection time and improving inventory accuracy.
Electrical Safety Audit
Electrical Safety Audit
Standards-based audit of LT/HT electrical systems, earthing, and protection against CEA Regulations and IS codes. Electrical system efficiency directly affects Scope 2 intensity; combined delivery with energy audit is available.
Green Audit
Green Audit
Broad environmental sustainability assessment covering energy, water, waste, emissions, and biodiversity impacts. Useful as a precursor to a structured carbon footprint study or as a parallel IGBC/LEED compliance review.
Water Audit
Water Audit
End-to-end water balance and conservation assessment. Reducing water consumption lowers embedded energy use and reduces associated Scope 2 GHG emissions — particularly relevant for manufacturing, hospitality, and healthcare facilities.
Risk Assessment
HAZOP / QRA — Process Risk Assessment
Structured hazard identification and quantitative risk assessment for process plants. Process safety studies identify fugitive emission sources and release scenarios that also inform the Scope 1 process emissions inventory for chemical, pharmaceutical, and petrochemical facilities.
Methodology
Engineering Audit Methodology & Independence Framework
How Elion maintains third-party independence, applies NABL-calibrated instruments, and produces report outputs accepted by statutory authorities, insurers, and audit committees across all engineering and sustainability audit disciplines.
Credentials
Qualifications & Accreditations
Details of Elion's engineering team qualifications, ISO certifications (9001, 14001, 50001), BEE accreditation, NSIC approval, and professional body affiliations relevant to carbon footprint study and sustainability audit practice.
Regulatory & Business Context
Why a Carbon Footprint Study is Required in India
A carbon footprint study — also conducted as a GHG emissions inventory, carbon audit, or greenhouse gas assessment — is no longer solely a voluntary sustainability initiative in India. Multiple regulatory frameworks, investor requirements, and market pressures now create a practical obligation for Indian organisations across sectors.
BRSR — SEBI Mandatory Disclosure
SEBI's Business Responsibility and Sustainability Reporting (BRSR) framework is mandatory for India's top 1,000 listed companies from FY 2022-23. It requires quantitative disclosure of Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions in the annual report. A structured, independently prepared carbon footprint study provides the calculation methodology, emission factor documentation, and audit trail that statutory auditors and regulators require. Without it, companies face the risk of unsubstantiated or inconsistent year-on-year disclosures.
BEE / PAT Scheme — Designated Consumers
The Bureau of Energy Efficiency's Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) scheme covers over 1,000 large energy-consuming industrial units across 13 sectors including cement, steel, aluminium, fertilisers, and textiles. PAT-designated consumers are required to report energy consumption and reduction performance, and a parallel GHG inventory is increasingly required to support carbon trading preparedness and MoEFCC reporting. Elion's carbon footprint studies for PAT-designated industries are structured to align with both BEE and ISO 50001 frameworks.
BEE / PAT Scheme — Designated Consumers
The European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is being phased in from 2026, initially covering steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, and hydrogen. Indian exporters in these sectors will be required to demonstrate the embedded carbon content of their products, or face a carbon levy at the EU border. Independently conducted product carbon footprint studies, aligned with the GHG Protocol Product Standard or ISO 14067, are the accepted method for documenting embedded emissions. This requirement will expand to additional sectors over time.
Investor & Lender ESG Requirements
Institutional investors — domestic mutual funds, FIIs, PE funds, and development finance institutions — increasingly require portfolio companies to disclose GHG emissions as part of ESG due diligence and ongoing portfolio monitoring. Green bonds, sustainability-linked loans, and IFC Performance Standard-aligned project finance all require documented GHG inventories. An independent carbon footprint study, aligned with ISO 14064-1 and the GHG Protocol, provides the verified baseline that lenders and investors require.
Supply Chain Scope 3 Requests
Indian manufacturers supplying to global brands in automotive, FMCG, apparel, electronics, and pharmaceuticals are receiving Scope 3 supplier data requests directly from their customers. Multinational buyers — bound by their own net-zero commitments and investor disclosures — require GHG data from their supply chains to quantify and reduce Scope 3 emissions. An independently conducted GHG emissions inventory that produces supplier-ready data in standard formats is increasingly a commercial prerequisite for retaining export contracts.
Net-Zero & SBTi Commitments
Indian companies setting net-zero targets or submitting to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) are required to establish a verified GHG emissions baseline before targets can be set. Without a documented, methodology-aligned carbon footprint study, target claims cannot be substantiated and verified. Elion provides baseline carbon footprint studies structured specifically to support SBTi target-setting, PAS 2060 carbon neutrality claims, and internal net-zero programmes — including the documentation of base year, boundary, consolidation approach, and recalculation policy.
Anonymised Case Studies
Carbon Footprint Study — Selected Project Outcomes
The following anonymised case studies illustrate the outcomes Elion’s carbon footprint studies have delivered for Indian industrial and commercial clients.
BRSR Compliance — SEBI Mandatory Reporting
SEBI’s BRSR framework requires India’s top 1,000 listed companies to disclose quantitative Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from FY 2022-23 onwards. This is a mandatory, auditable disclosure — not a voluntary narrative statement. Companies that cannot produce a documented GHG inventory with a defined methodology, emission factors, and base year face the risk of qualified disclosures and reputational exposure with institutional investors.
Elion’s carbon footprint studies produce BRSR-ready output tables directly usable in the annual report, with full calculation documentation for statutory auditor review.
ESG & Investor Requirements
SEBI’s BRSR framework requires India’s top 1,000 listed companies to disclose quantitative Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions from FY 2022-23 onwards. This is a mandatory, auditable disclosure — not a voluntary narrative statement. Companies that cannot produce a documented GHG inventory with a defined methodology, emission factors, and base year face the risk of qualified disclosures and reputational exposure with institutional investors.
An independently prepared ISO 14064-1 aligned GHG inventory carries substantially more credibility than internal estimates or extrapolations with investors and rating agencies.
Export Requirements — EU CBAM & Supply Chain Data
The EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), phasing in from 2026, requires Indian exporters of steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, and hydrogen to declare the embedded carbon content of exported goods or face a carbon levy at the EU border. Separately, multinational buyers in automotive, apparel, pharma, and electronics are issuing Scope 3 supplier data requests to Indian vendors as a contractual requirement. A documented, independently prepared product carbon footprint (PCF) or organisational GHG inventory is the accepted basis for both obligations.
Elion’s studies for export-oriented manufacturers produce supplier GHG data compatible with GHG Protocol Scope 3 Standard and major customer reporting templates.
Energy Efficiency & Cost Reduction
Scope 1 and Scope 2 GHG emissions are directly proportional to energy consumption — combustion of fossil fuels and electricity drawn from the grid. A carbon footprint study quantifies exactly where emissions (and therefore energy costs) are concentrated across a facility’s operations. For most Indian industrial facilities, the carbon inventory identifies 3–5 high-impact emission sources that, if addressed, would deliver simultaneous reductions in both carbon output and energy expenditure. The BEE Energy Audit and the carbon footprint study are therefore best conducted together — the energy audit data directly feeds the Scope 1 and 2 calculation, improving accuracy and reducing data collection effort.
For PAT-designated consumers, the study also provides the GHG baseline required for carbon credit preparedness under India’s Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS).
Net-Zero Goals & Science-Based Targets (SBTi)
Indian companies setting corporate net-zero targets — whether through the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), voluntary COP commitments, or internal board-level resolutions — require a verified GHG emissions baseline as the starting point. Without a documented baseline, any claimed reduction percentage is unverifiable and exposes the organisation to greenwashing risk. Elion’s baseline carbon footprint studies are structured to support SBTi target-setting (including the near-term and long-term target categories), PAS 2060 carbon neutrality documentation, and India’s emerging Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) under the Energy Conservation (Amendment) Act 2022.
Base year documentation, recalculation policy, and boundary definitions are included in every Elion carbon footprint study report — the specific elements required for SBTi submission.
Hospitality · South India
- BRSR / SEBI — Mandatory Scope 1 & 2 disclosure, top 1,000 listed companies, FY 2022-23 onwards
- ESG / Investors — GHG data required for green bonds, ESG ratings (CDP, MSCI), and institutional due diligence
- Export / EU CBAM — Embedded carbon declarations required for steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers from 2026
- Energy Efficiency — Carbon inventory identifies energy cost reduction opportunities; aligned with BEE / PAT scheme
- Net Zero / SBTi — Verified baseline required before targets can be set; supports PAS 2060 and CCTS
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about engineering audit and safety compliance services in Delhi NCR. For project-specific enquiries, submit a request or contact the team directly.
1. What is a carbon footprint study?
A carbon footprint study measures the total greenhouse gas emissions produced directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, event, or product. It helps identify areas for emission reduction.
2. Why is reducing my carbon footprint important?
Reducing your carbon footprint contributes to environmental sustainability by mitigating climate change, conserving resources, and promoting responsible business practices.
3. Who can benefit from a carbon footprint study?
Any individual, business, or organization looking to understand and minimize their environmental impact can benefit from a carbon footprint study.
4. How does a carbon footprint study work?
A study involves data collection, emissions calculation, analysis, and recommendation development. Certified auditors assess various activities and quantify associated emissions.
5. What kind of data is collected for the study?
Data includes energy consumption, transportation, waste production, and other relevant activities. This data is used to calculate emissions across different scopes.
6. What are the different scopes of emissions?
Scopes include direct emissions from owned sources (Scope 1), indirect emissions from energy consumption (Scope 2), and indirect emissions from the entire value chain (Scope 3).
7. How can I reduce my carbon footprint?
The study provides actionable recommendations, such as energy efficient practices, renewable energy adoption, waste reduction, sustainable transportation, and supply chain optimization.
8. Can a carbon footprint study help with regulatory compliance?
Yes, a study can identify areas of non-compliance with environmental regulations and help align your practices with legal requirements.
9. How long does a carbon footprint study take?
The duration varies based on the complexity of the study and data availability. It can take a few weeks to a few months to complete.
10. What benefits can my business gain from reducing its carbon footprint?
Benefits include cost savings through resource optimization, enhanced brand reputation, increased stakeholder engagement, and alignment with global sustainability goals.
11. Is the investment in a carbon footprint study worthwhile?
Absolutely. The insights gained from the study can lead to long-term cost savings, improved operational efficiency, and a positive impact on the environment.
12. Are there international standards for carbon footprint analysis?
Yes, there are international standards like the ISO 14064 series that provide guidelines for carbon footprint assessment and reporting.
13. How frequently should I conduct a carbon footprint study?
It’s recommended to conduct studies periodically, especially when there are significant changes in operations, products, or regulations.
14. Can I offset my carbon emissions?
Yes, carbon offsetting involves investing in projects that reduce or capture emissions to compensate for your own emissions.
15. Will reducing my carbon footprint affect my bottom line?
While initial changes may require investment, the long-term benefits, including cost savings and positive brand perception, often outweigh the initial costs.
16. Can a carbon footprint study help attract environmentally conscious customers?
Yes, showcasing a commitment to sustainability through reduced carbon emissions can attract eco-conscious consumers and business partners.
17. What role does employee engagement play in carbon footprint reduction?
Engaged employees often contribute to successful sustainability initiatives by adopting eco-friendly behaviors and suggesting innovative ideas.
18. How can I track the progress of my carbon footprint reduction efforts?
Regularly monitor key performance indicators identified in the study, track energy consumption, emissions, and waste generation to assess your progress.
19. Is a carbon footprint study a one-time process?
No, sustainability is an ongoing journey. Regular studies help you track progress, set new goals, and continue improving.
20. How can I get started with a carbon footprint study?
Contact us to initiate a consultation. Our experts will guide you through the process, explain the benefits, and tailor the study to your needs.
21. What are the 4 main carbon footprint categories?
The four main carbon footprint categories, also known as “scopes,” are a framework used to categorize and measure the greenhouse gas emissions associated with various activities and sources. These scopes were defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, a widely recognized standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. Here are the four main carbon footprint categories:
Scope 1: Direct Emissions – This category includes direct greenhouse gas emissions from sources that are owned or controlled by the entity conducting the assessment. Examples of scope 1 emissions include emissions from on-site combustion of fossil fuels (e.g., natural gas for heating), emissions from company-owned vehicles, and emissions from industrial processes.
Scope 2: Indirect Emissions from Electricity and Heat Production – Scope 2 covers indirect emissions associated with the generation of electricity, heat, or steam that the assessed entity consumes. These emissions occur at the source where the energy is produced, such as a power plant. They are considered indirect because the entity does not directly control the emissions-producing source.
Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions – This category encompasses a wide range of indirect emissions that occur throughout the entire lifecycle of a product or service, but are not included in scopes 1 or 2. Scope 3 emissions can be more challenging to quantify as they involve activities outside the direct control of the assessing entity. Examples include emissions from purchased goods and services, transportation and distribution, employee commuting, business travel, and waste disposal.
Scope 4 (Optional): Value Chain and Upstream/Downstream Emissions – Some organizations may choose to include a fourth scope to account for additional indirect emissions associated with their value chain, both upstream and downstream. This scope goes beyond the boundaries of the organization and encompasses emissions from the entire lifecycle of products, including raw material extraction, manufacturing, distribution, use, and end-of-life disposal.
It’s important to note that while these categories provide a structured framework for assessing carbon footprints, not all emissions sources may fit neatly into these scopes, and there may be variations in how organizations choose to categorize and report their emissions. The aim of using these categories is to provide a comprehensive understanding of an entity’s overall greenhouse gas emissions and to guide efforts to reduce and manage those emissions effectively.
22.Why do we study carbon footprint?
Climate Change Mitigation: The primary driver behind studying carbon footprints is to address climate change. Greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide (CO2), contribute to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat in the Earth’s atmosphere and leading to global warming. By assessing and understanding carbon footprints, we can identify the major sources of emissions and implement strategies to reduce them, thus mitigating the impact of climate change.
Environmental Impact: High levels of greenhouse gas emissions not only lead to climate change but also contribute to other environmental issues such as air pollution, smog, and ecosystem disruption. Studying carbon footprints helps us better comprehend the broader environmental consequences of our activities and make informed decisions to minimize harm.
Resource Management: Many carbon emissions are closely linked to the use of fossil fuels, which are finite resources. By studying carbon footprints, we can assess how efficiently resources are being used, identify opportunities for conservation, and promote the transition to more sustainable energy sources.
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility: Businesses and organizations are increasingly recognizing the importance of addressing their carbon footprints as part of their corporate social responsibility efforts. Studying carbon footprints helps companies measure their impact on the environment, set reduction targets, and implement sustainable practices.
Policy and Regulation: Governments and international organizations use carbon footprint data to develop and implement policies, regulations, and agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Accurate carbon footprint assessments provide the foundation for effective policy decisions and international climate agreements.
Consumer Awareness: Consumers are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of the products and services they use. Companies that provide transparent information about their carbon footprints can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers and gain a competitive edge.
Innovation and Research: Studying carbon footprints encourages innovation in technology and processes to reduce emissions. Research into cleaner energy sources, more efficient transportation, and sustainable manufacturing practices is driven by the need to lower carbon footprints.
Risk Management: Businesses and governments need to understand the potential risks associated with climate change and extreme weather events. Studying carbon footprints helps identify vulnerabilities and develop strategies to manage and adapt to changing environmental conditions.
Health and Well-being: Addressing carbon footprints can have direct benefits for human health. Reducing emissions from sources like vehicles and industrial processes can lead to improved air quality and reduced respiratory illnesses.
Overall, studying carbon footprints is crucial for a sustainable and resilient future, enabling us to make informed decisions, develop effective strategies, and work towards a more environmentally friendly and economically viable world.
23. What are the 3 scopes of carbon footprint?
These three scopes were defined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and provide a framework for categorizing and measuring greenhouse gas emissions. Here are the three scopes of carbon footprint:
Scope 1: Direct Emissions – This scope includes direct greenhouse gas emissions that occur from sources that are owned or controlled by the entity conducting the assessment. Examples of scope 1 emissions include emissions from on-site combustion of fossil fuels (e.g., natural gas for heating), emissions from company-owned vehicles, and emissions from industrial processes.
Scope 2: Indirect Emissions from Electricity and Heat Production – Scope 2 covers indirect emissions associated with the generation of electricity, heat, or steam that the assessed entity consumes. These emissions occur at the source where the energy is produced, such as a power plant. They are considered indirect because the entity does not directly control the emissions-producing source.
Scope 3: Other Indirect Emissions – This category encompasses a wide range of indirect emissions that occur throughout the entire lifecycle of a product or service, but are not included in scopes 1 or 2. Scope 3 emissions can be more challenging to quantify as they involve activities outside the direct control of the assessing entity. Examples include emissions from purchased goods and services, transportation and distribution, employee commuting, business travel, and waste disposal.
These three scopes provide a comprehensive framework for assessing and addressing the various sources of greenhouse gas emissions associated with an organization’s activities. They help organizations understand the full extent of their carbon footprint and develop strategies to reduce and manage their emissions in a holistic manner.
24. Which country has the largest footprint?
China was the largest contributor to global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and had the largest carbon footprint of any country. China’s rapid industrialization, large population, and heavy reliance on coal for energy production have contributed to its significant carbon emissions. However, it’s important to note that these rankings can change over time due to shifts in economic activity, energy sources, and government policies.
For the most current and accurate information on carbon footprints and global emissions, I recommend consulting recent reports from reputable sources such as the International Energy Agency (IEA), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and other relevant environmental organizations.
25. What is the footprint of India?
India was one of the world’s largest contributors to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and had a significant carbon footprint due to its large population, growing economy, and energy consumption. However, please note that specific carbon footprint data can vary depending on the source, methodology, and the most recent data available.
For the most up-to-date and accurate information on India’s carbon footprint and emissions, I recommend consulting recent reports from reputable sources such as the International Energy Agency (IEA), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Keep in mind that efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to cleaner energy sources may impact India’s carbon footprint over time, and it’s important to refer to the latest data for the most accurate assessment.
26. Why are Carbon Footprint Studies important?
They help organizations identify emissions sources, reduce their carbon footprint, and contribute to environmental sustainability.
27. What are common sources of greenhouse gas emissions?
Common sources include energy consumption, transportation, industrial processes, and agriculture.
28. How often should a Carbon Footprint Study be conducted?
Frequency varies but regular assessments, such as annually, are recommended to track progress.
29. What role do renewable energy sources play in reducing carbon footprints?
Transitioning to renewables like solar and wind power can significantly reduce carbon emissions.
30. Are there financial incentives for businesses to reduce their carbon emissions?
Some government programs and incentives offer financial support for emission reduction initiatives.
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