„Decarbonisation"

What does it mean?

Decarbonisation refers to the gradual reduction of CO2 emissions through technological innovations, process optimisations and the use of renewable energy. In contrast to mere CO2 offsetting, decarbonisation aims at an actual and permanent reduction of the ecological footprint. The EU Directive 2024/825 (EmpCo) tightens the requirements for the substantiation of environmental claims pursuant to § 5 UWG. A decarbonisation claim is only permissible if specific reduction targets and measurable progress can be demonstrated, for example through validation by the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).

Typical phrasings

• "Decarbonisation of our supply chain: -30% CO2 emissions by 2028, verified in accordance with ISO 14064-1"
• "Decarbonisation roadmap with annual progress reporting in accordance with SBTi standards"
• "Investment in renewable energy for decarbonisation of our production"

What you can write instead

Required evidence

• ISO 14064-1 verification
• Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi)
• Scope specification (1, 2 or 3) with absolute figures