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Chemical Carbon Footprint: What you Need to Know in 2025

Updated on
March 27, 2025

The chemical carbon footprint is increasingly on the radar of more companies. It’s not a trend or a PR move. It’s a key issue if we want to stay competitive.

What exactly are we talking about?

About measuring the emissions generated by everything related to chemical substances, from their production to their final use. Whether we manufacture them, use them, or they are part of our products.

And why is it so important?

Because the emissions associated with chemical products can be very high, and if we don’t measure them, we have no way to control them or show improvements.

This goes beyond complying with regulations. We’re talking about playing seriously in a market that demands transparency and real data.

Regulatory pressure keeps increasing, and measuring these emissions is no longer optional.

The good news is, it doesn’t have to be complicated. There are solutions that allow this to be done easily and with reliable data.

Measuring is the first step to improvement. And if we don’t do it, our competitors will. Do we fall behind or take the step?

What is the chemical carbon footprint?

The chemical carbon footprint is the total emissions generated in processes related to chemical substances.

From product manufacturing to use or disposal, everything adds up.

It doesn’t matter whether we’re talking about detergents, plastics, or industrial compounds.

If we use or produce chemical substances, we have associated emissions that need to be measured.

Why focus on this type of footprint? Because the chemical sector is one of the top contributors to global emissions. And if we don’t measure it properly, we can’t improve.

What chemical activities generate more carbon emissions?

The most intensive ones are the manufacturing and transformation of chemical compounds. This includes processes such as synthesis, thermal treatment, or substance separation.

There are also emissions from transport, storage, and final use. Even minor-looking activities can have a significant weight in the total calculation.

How can we know which processes have the most impact? By measuring accurately. It’s the only way to get the full picture.

How is it different from other types of carbon footprints?

The chemical carbon footprint focuses on the specific processes of chemical use or manufacturing. It’s not the same as the product footprint, which covers the entire life cycle of the full product.

It’s also not the same as the corporate footprint. That one measures the emissions of the entire company, without digging into the chemical process detail.

3 reasons to measure the chemical carbon footprint

1. Invisible risks: accumulated environmental impact

Many chemical processes generate emissions without us noticing. They are cumulative, small at first, but they can become a serious problem.

If we don’t see them, we don’t manage them. And that can mean fines, loss of reputation, or being left out of the market.

Regulatory compliance: European and global regulations.

2. Regulations are tightening fast.

CSRD, ISO, European taxonomy... all are demanding increasingly precise data.

And what happens if you don’t have it?

You won’t be able to report properly or show your compliance with the rules. And that leads to real risks.

3. Market pressure and expectations of stakeholders

Clients, investors, and partners are no longer happy with promises. They want data, results, and measurable improvements.

If you don’t have control over your chemical emissions, they’ll notice. And if your competition does, they’ll win and you’ll be left out.

Sustainability is now a market requirement, not an extra. Measuring your chemical footprint positions you as a company that’s serious.

This is how measuring helps: 4 specific benefits for your company

Measuring the chemical carbon footprint is not a whim. It’s a clear way to see where we are and how to improve key processes.

1. Process optimization and energy savings

When we measure, we discover inefficiencies. Processes that consume more energy than necessary or materials that could be rethought.

The result? Lower costs and better control. Reducing emissions goes hand in hand with saving money.

2. Improves corporate image and ESG communication

Data speaks louder than any speech. If we measure properly, we can clearly communicate our progress.

Who cares about that? Clients, investors, and partners who want to work with serious companies.

3. Identification of opportunities for operational efficiency

Often the issue isn’t the impact, but not knowing where it is. Measuring helps us identify bottlenecks and processes to optimize.

That’s how we turn sustainability into real strategy. It’s not just about compliance, but about being more competitive.

4. Access to funding and new markets

Want to enter demanding markets or get financing? They’ll ask for data. Without clear reports, there’s no access.

Measuring your chemical footprint opens doors. It’s not just an advantage, it’s the new minimum to compete.

How is the carbon footprint measured in the chemical industry?

Theory is fine, but… how do we actually do it?

Let’s take it step by step.

Main methodologies available

There are several recognized methods to do this right.

The most commonly used are the GHG Protocol and ISO 14067.

The key is to use a standardized methodology that can be audited and reported.

Data you need to collect (and where to find it)

Without data, there’s no measurement.

And in the chemical industry, data can be scattered everywhere.

What do we need? Energy consumption, raw materials, transport, direct and indirect emissions.

Where are they? In procurement, accounting, logistics, and production systems. You have to connect them all.

Digital tools or spreadsheets? What works better?

Let’s be honest, spreadsheets have reached their limit. They’re slow, prone to errors, and become unmanageable.

What’s the alternative? Use specific digital solutions.

They automate, reduce errors, and give you immediate results you can use right away.

Do we want to waste time or get results? The choice is easy if we want to scale.

3 common obstacles and how to overcome them

We know that measuring the chemical carbon footprint is not easy.

But obstacles are no excuse to stay still.

1. Complexity in the supply chain and data traceability

Where’s the data? Everywhere.

And many times, it’s not even connected.

The solution? Unify, digitize, and automate.

Only then can we trace the entire life cycle and understand the real impact.

2. Lack of organizational culture around sustainability

Why do many companies still not measure their chemical footprint? Because there’s no internal culture driving it.

This can be changed through information and results. When the team sees that measuring brings benefits, mindsets shift.

3. Initial costs and return on investment

Yes, measuring has a cost. But not measuring costs more.

Without data, we lose opportunities, markets, and money.

And the return? It comes sooner than expected. Reducing emissions also improves processes and lowers expenses.

How can Dcycle help you measure your chemical carbon footprint?

At Dcycle, we make it simple. We unify your entire ESG system and make it work in your favor.

We centralize all your ESG data on a single platform

Enough with scattered files and incomplete data. In one place, you have everything you need to make decisions.

That way we avoid duplication and errors. And you can focus on what matters: improving your impact.

We facilitate compliance with CSRD, Taxonomy, ISOs, SBTi, and EINF

Need to report? We’ve got it covered. Dcycle adapts your data to meet each regulation’s requirements, with no hassle.

And if regulations change tomorrow, you don’t start from scratch. Our system adapts with you.

We automate impact calculation and generate reports ready for any use

Tired of wasting time on spreadsheets? Our system does the math for you and generates ready-to-use reports.

You don’t need to be an expert, just have the data. We take care of the rest.

We turn sustainability into a strategic lever for your company

We’re not here to decorate your website with numbers. We’re here to help you gain efficiency, access markets, and improve your position.

Sustainability is no longer “a nice thing.” It’s part of the business. And we make it work for you.

Our vision at Dcycle on the chemical carbon footprint

We’ve been doing this for a while, and we’re clear on one thing. The chemical industry has a lot to improve, but also a lot to gain.

What our experts think about the sector’s future

More and more sectors are being measured in detail. The chemical sector won’t be the exception, it will be at the center.

Are we ready? That depends on what we do today. Whoever starts now will have the advantage tomorrow.

Our recommendation: start as soon as possible with the right technology

You don’t need a new team or to reinvent your company. You just need to start with the right tools.

At Dcycle, we make it simple, fast, and useful. And if you start today, you’re already ahead of the rest.

Where do I start if I want to measure the chemical carbon footprint?

If you’ve made it this far, you probably already know that you need to measure. Now the question is: where do we start? Let’s go step by step.

Identify your most carbon-intensive processes

You don’t need to measure everything at once. Start with the processes that consume the most energy or materials.

Not sure which they are? They’re usually in production, chemical treatment, or transport.

Define realistic reduction goals

It’s not just about measuring, you need to improve. And for that, you have to set clear and achievable targets.

Do we want to reduce 10%, 30%? It depends on where we’re starting from and what resources we have.

Choose a digital tool that makes the process easier

Measuring without technology is a waste of time. Spreadsheets won’t be able to handle the process’s complexity.

The key? Automate and centralize. That’s how we go from “I have scattered data” to “I have total control.”

Train your team and create internal commitment

This isn’t just about technology. It’s about people. If the team doesn’t understand the purpose of measuring, they won’t help.

How do we change that? By explaining the impact, the benefits, and showing them results.

Monitor, report, and improve continuously

Measuring once is not enough. You need to track progress, see what works, and adjust.

That way, improvement isn’t just occasional, it’s ongoing. And your company becomes more competitive with every step.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between a chemical carbon footprint and a product carbon footprint?

The chemical footprint focuses on processes involving chemical substances.
The product footprint covers the entire life cycle of the good or service.

What regulations specifically affect the chemical industry?

CSRD, ISO 14067, European taxonomy, and SBTi, among others.
More and more regulations are demanding precise measurements in this sector.

What types of companies should measure their chemical carbon footprint?

All that produce, use, or transform chemical substances.
From manufacturers to companies that include them in their processes.

Are there certifications for this type of measurement?

Yes. Standards like ISO 14067 allow you to validate and report your footprint correctly.
This helps with legal and market compliance.

How much does it cost to implement a chemical carbon footprint measurement system?

It depends on the company’s size and the level of detail.But with digital solutions like Dcycle, costs are reduced and the return is fast.

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Cristina Alcalá-Zamora
CSRD Specialist | Content Creator

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can You Calculate a Product’s Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint calculation analyzes all emissions generated throughout a product’s life cycle, including raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and disposal.

The most recognized methodologies are:

  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
  • ISO 14067
  • PAS 2050

Digital tools like Dcycle simplify the process, providing accurate and actionable insights.

What Are the Most Recognized Certifications?
  • ISO 14067 – Defines carbon footprint measurement for products.
  • EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) – Environmental impact based on LCA.
  • Cradle to Cradle (C2C) – Evaluates sustainability and circularity.
  • LEED & BREEAM – Certifications for sustainable buildings.
Which Industries Have the Highest Carbon Footprint?
  • Construction – High emissions from cement and steel.
  • Textile – Intense water usage and fiber production emissions.
  • Food Industry – Large-scale agriculture and transportation impact.
  • Transportation – Fossil fuel dependency in vehicles and aviation.
How Can Companies Reduce Product Carbon Footprints?
  • Use recycled or low-emission materials.
  • Optimize production processes to cut energy use.
  • Shift to renewable energy sources.
  • Improve transportation and logistics to reduce emissions.
Is Carbon Reduction Expensive?

Some strategies require initial investment, but long-term benefits outweigh costs.

  • Energy efficiency lowers operational expenses.
  • Material reuse and recycling reduces procurement costs.
  • Sustainability certifications open new business opportunities.

Investing in carbon reduction is not just an environmental action, it’s a smart business strategy.