The carbon calculator, from Green Economy and GM Business Growth Hub, is designed to measure energy use and identify the biggest carbon impacts for businesses accurately.
The tool was developed on behalf of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) using UKSPF funding and is primarily aimed at SMEs and not-for-profit organizations at the start of their carbon reduction journey.
However, larger businesses can also use it to adjust their existing plans.
The tool calculates CO2e to simplify understanding of energy, fuel, and material consumption, providing a baseline for tracking progress in reducing environmental impact.
Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, said: “More businesses now understand the need to measure their own carbon footprint as they look to reduce emissions and costs, which is positive news for Greater Manchester’s target of becoming a carbon-neutral city-region by 2038.
“This new tool from Green Economy is the perfect first step for any business at the start of that journey.”
Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester (Image: Supplied) The tool has been supported by the Greater Manchester Business Board, a member of the Bee Net Zero partnership, which seeks to assist businesses in adopting more sustainable practices affordably and efficiently.
Steve Connor, green lead for the Greater Manchester Business Board, said: “This tool is a vital resource in helping us in our mission to make Greater Manchester the easiest place to become a net zero business.
“With fully funded support from GM Business Growth Hub and expert advice from the Bee Net Zero partnership, SMEs can not only measure and report on their carbon footprint, but also can start to take action to reduce their emissions and energy bills too, which will benefit productivity as well as the environment.”
Steve Connor, green lead for the Greater Manchester Business Board (Image: Supplied) The tool, which aims to provide a more detailed analysis by using actual units of consumption, uses the government’s greenhouse gas conversion figures.
Businesses can measure their footprint going back five years to observe changes over time and measure the impact of energy price fluctuations.
The tool generates a full report with recommendations to reduce carbon impacts, as well as signposting available resources through Green Economy and the Hub.
The tool has been tested by local businesses, including Bolton-based Carrs Pasties.
Gavin Astley, head of operations at Carrs Pasties, said: “This new tool is a fantastic opportunity for businesses like ours to very quickly get a clear picture of their carbon impacts.
“It is really easy to use and will be a great help for us to measure our company carbon footprint, and identify opportunities to reduce carbon emissions and save our business money.”
The carbon calculator tool can be accessed at carboncalculator.greeneconomy.co.uk.
Businesses seeking extra support can attend a free workshop on January 28 to explore the tool and learn how to use it.