Arbor Australis’ Commitment to a Greener Future
At Arbor Australis, we are dedicated to understanding and mitigating our carbon emissions. Our FY24 Carbon Footprint Report highlights our efforts and achievements in this area, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability.
Understanding Our Carbon Emissions
Our comprehensive carbon footprint analysis for the period from 1 July 2023 to 30 June 2024 revealed that Arbor Australis’ total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions amounted to 187.02 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (t CO2-e). These emissions were categorized into three scopes:
- Scope 1: Direct emissions from sources controlled by Arbor Australis, such as fuel combustion in company vehicles, accounted for 11.90% of our total emissions [1].
- Scope 2: Indirect emissions from the consumption of purchased electricity, which constituted 1.50% of our total emissions [1].
- Scope 3: Other indirect emissions, including those from purchased goods and services, indirect energy use, and waste disposal, made up 86.60% of our total emissions [1].
The 2023 financial year was used as the baseline recording year to set a starting point for our carbon footprint analysis. The increase in carbon emissions for 2024 was primarily due to the purchase of three new vehicles, which contributed significantly to the Scope 3 assessment [1].
Our Aim to Reduce Emissions
Arbor Australis has implemented several carbon reduction activities to minimize our environmental impact. During FY24, we replaced two petrol vehicles with electric vehicles and began the process of installing a battery for solar power storage. These initiatives, together with a work-from-home, where possible policy, are part of our broader strategy to reduce our carbon footprint and our reliance on fossil fuels and transition to renewable energy sources [1].
Investing in Reforestation Projects
In addition to reducing our emissions, Arbor Australis is committed to offsetting our carbon footprint through reforestation projects. We have partnered with Carbon Neutral, an Australian-owned carbon solutions consultancy, to invest in biodiverse reforestation projects. To date, Carbon Neutral has planted over 30 million trees in rural Australia, enriching landscapes and delivering practical carbon solutions [1].
By investing in these projects, we aim to not only offset our emissions but also contribute to the restoration of natural habitats and the fight against climate change.
Transparency Through External Auditing by Carbon Neutral
To ensure the accuracy and reliability of our carbon footprint data, Arbor Australis engaged Carbon Neutral to conduct an external audit. Carbon Neutral, with over 20 years of experience in carbon solutions, provided a thorough and independent assessment of our GHG emissions. This audit helps us maintain transparency and accountability in our sustainability efforts [1]. The Carbon Neutral assessment can be accessed [HERE]
Benefits of Carbon Reduction Activities
Implementing carbon reduction activities offers numerous benefits, including:
- Cost Savings: Reducing energy consumption and transitioning to renewable energy sources can lead to significant cost savings over time.
- Enhanced Reputation: Demonstrating a commitment to sustainability can enhance Arbor Australis’ reputation among customers, partners, and stakeholders.
- Regulatory Compliance: Proactively reducing emissions helps ensure compliance with current and future environmental regulations.
- Environmental Impact: Reducing carbon emissions contributes to the global effort to combat climate change and protect the environment for future generations.
Our Path to Carbon Neutrality
To maintain our claim to carbon neutrality, Arbor Australis will continue to seek opportunities to reduce our avoidable GHG emissions and offset the remaining emissions. For both FY23 & FY24, we have purchased 301 tonnes of carbon offsets through reforestation projects, including the Biodiverse Reforestation in Australia and an avoid deforestation project in the Congo. This ensures that our net GHG emissions for both years are equal to zero [1].
At Arbor Australis, we believe that every step towards sustainability counts. We are proud of our progress and remain committed to creating a greener future for generations to come.
References [1] 2023-2024 Carbon Footprint Report
