Our Approach to Reducing Scope 3 Emissions

Published on 6-02-2025 - Written by Kemin

At Kemin, we’re committed to tackling Scope 3 emissions, crucial to our organisation’s decarbonisation and sustainability journey. Scope 3 emissions are, unfortunately, the most challenging to measure and manage. That’s because they comprise indirect carbon emissions from activities beyond our company’s direct ownership or control. Such emissions encompass upstream and downstream processes across the value chain, including supplier operations, product transportation, and customer use. 

Overall, Scope 3 emissions often form a significant part of a company's carbon footprint. Therefore, by working with our partners to reduce these emissions, we can collaboratively benefit the environment and ensure cost savings.

Why focus on Scope 3 emissions?

Tackling Scope 3 emissions, in particular, offers several strategic advantages that strengthen our company and increase value for our customers. Here are three key reasons we're focused on reducing these emissions:

  1. Building a sustainable supply chain 
    Partnering with suppliers prioritising sustainability fosters a more responsible and resilient supply chain. Choosing suppliers that innovate or actively reduce their own carbon footprint enhances environmental impact and supply chain efficiency. This is an inspiring way to work; by doing so, we can influence those around us and work together to achieve our environmental goals. 

  2. Developing best-in-class products
    We're committed to innovation, not just in performance but also in sustainability. That’s why, as detailed in our blog on LCAs, we constantly refine our formulations to minimise their environmental impact. Our dedication to reducing Scope 3 emissions allows us to develop cutting-edge products that meet the highest quality and sustainability standards.

  3. Ensuring regulatory compliance
    Addressing Scope 3 emissions also ensures compliance with current and emerging environmental regulations, reduces risks, and improves operational stability.

What we’re specifically doing to reduce Scope 3 emissions

At present, we are focused on two key activities to reduce Scope 3 emissions, namely: 

  1. Sustainable sourcing
    “To build a more sustainable supply chain, we're closely examining our suppliers' environmental and social practices,” explains Gabriela Andrea Ochoa Patiño, Sustainability Analyst at Kemin EMEA. “This includes understanding the impact of our raw materials by mapping their carbon footprint from origin to end use.”

    “We're also collaborating with suppliers to reduce plastic use and increase recyclability by exploring more sustainable packaging options.  Furthermore, we're implementing a supplier code of conduct to ensure everyone we work with meets our high standards for ethical and environmental practices. We're committed to continuous improvement and working closely with our partners to create a more sustainable future.”

  2. Tools for carbon footprint estimation
    We're making our supply chain more sustainable by using smart new tools to understand our suppliers' environmental and social impact. This simplifies things for everyone, builds stronger partnerships, and helps us create more transparent relationships.

    "In fact, our R&D team now uses a cutting-edge tool to assess the carbon footprint of our products from the very beginning,” furthers Gabriela. “This tool analyses the impact of everything from raw materials to transportation, allowing our team to experiment with different scenarios and make greener choices at every stage. We aim to roll this out globally, making sustainability a key factor in every product decision."

We’re committed to tackling Scope 3 complexity

“We know that addressing Scope 3 emissions is a significant challenge due to the complexities of measurement and the intricate strategies required to achieve reductions,” states Gabriela. 

"Despite this complexity, we're excited to tackle it head-on. We firmly believe in the environmental and business benefits it offers. And to ensure progress, we'll need a collaborative effort. Our procurement, leadership, and sustainability teams must continue to work closely with our suppliers and customers, ensuring open communication at every step."

Keep posted on our blog to learn more about our progress regarding Scope 3 emissions and sustainable sourcing. To learn more about our sustainability goals, visit our Sustainability Journey webpage.