A baseline measurement is the starting point for a substantiated reduction target. It maps an organisation’s CO2 emissions, but measurement alone does not change emissions. The value emerges in the next step: translating the baseline into a concrete reduction target and a plan to reach it. That movement from insight to action follows a clear route, helping targets become realistic, evidence-based and achievable.
What are the first steps after a baseline measurement?
- Analyse the hotspots — identify which sources and value-chain categories carry the most weight.
- Set a reference year — choose the baseline year against which progress will be measured.
- Define the reduction target — select an ambition, preferably science-based.
- Translate the target into measures — connect concrete actions to the largest emission sources.
- Secure measurement and adjustment — define how progress will be tracked and how the plan will be updated.
Why start with the largest sources?
For most organisations, the largest emissions sit in the value chain: scope 3. A baseline measurement according to the Greenhouse Gas Protocol shows where those emissions occur, so reduction effort lands where the effect is largest, rather than on easy but small categories.
What makes a reduction target credible?
A credible target is more than a rounded percentage. A Science Based Target links the target to a scientific carbon budget, so it aligns with what is needed to limit warming. That also makes the target stronger for stakeholders.
How does a target become an action plan?
A target without a plan remains an intention. Measures, milestones and responsibilities come together in a strategy and action plan, making the reduction pathway concrete and steerable.
How does New Economy support this?
New Economy connects baseline measurement, reduction target and action plan into one evidence-based route, with data as the foundation. This turns measurement into the starting point for actual reduction. See Footprint baseline.
Frequently asked questions about reduction targets
The first step is hotspot analysis: identifying which emission sources and value-chain categories carry the most weight, so reduction effort goes where the effect is largest.
A reference year is the baseline year against which future reduction is measured. It becomes the benchmark for the reduction target and progress tracking.
A credible target links the ambition to a scientific carbon budget, for example through a Science Based Target, instead of relying on a self-selected percentage.
An action plan is needed to translate the target into measures, milestones and responsibilities, with a method for measuring progress and adjusting the plan.
For a shift from baseline measurement to a substantiated target, see Footprint baseline or Strategy and action plan, or contact New Economy to explore the options.