In response to the climate change we are witnessing today, international, regional, national and local initiatives are being developed and implemented to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. This article examines efforts to reduce the carbon footprint and the role of the Control Union in facilitating and consistent GHG quantification, monitoring, reporting and validating or verifying GHG emissions and removals in support of sustainable development through a low-carbon economy and for the benefit of organizations, project promoters and stakeholders worldwide.

 

Carbon Footprint in Bulgaria: Overview

 

According to the European Commission Report on greenhouse gas emissions from all countries in the world for 2023, the amount of greenhouse gas emissions from Bulgaria for 2022 is equal to 68.41 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (Mton CO2eq), as the largest share of emissions is due to the energy sector, followed by the transport sector, manufacturing, building stock, etc.

 

Control Union Contribution

 

Control Union, with its experience in the field of certification services and sustainable development, supports the efforts of businesses in the various sectors (energy, agriculture, forestry, textiles, manufacturing, etc.) to develop specific targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieving climate neutrality goals, as well as their targeting, validation and implementation in corporate strategy and policy.

 

Case studies in Bulgaria

1. Increasing the share of electricity produced from renewable sources: Bulgaria obliged energy producers and suppliers to include a certain share of energy from renewable sources in their production and supplies through a national support scheme. Control Union’s certification services support this policy by providing evidence of compliance with sustainability criteria and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
2. Transport sector: Promotion of electric and hybrid vehicles, reduction of LPG emissions. The transport sector, responsible for 15% of emissions, has reduced its carbon footprint by almost 5% over the past decade. Control Union’s certification, verification and inspection services can be a key factor in proving this business progress.

1. Circular economy – more efficient use of raw materials and reduction of waste and emissions: The European Union and Bulgaria implement measures and policies to promote the transition to the circular economy, achieve environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality by 2050, with a particular focus on resource-intensive sectors such as electronics and communications, plastics and textiles, and construction. Control Union helps businesses meet existing and future requirements for sustainable business management.

 

Professional opinions

Experts in the field of environment and sustainable development in Bulgaria emphasize the importance of an integrated approach to reduce the carbon footprint and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Scientists are adamant about the need to implement more targeted policies, technological innovations and public awareness, areas , in which Control Union’s services are highly suitable.

 

Control Union’s commitment and efforts to achieve sustainability are not only related to compliance with existing regulations, but also for targeted support and contribution to the change of the Bulgarian model of business and public self-awareness. Through the variety of services offered, adapted to the specific challenges of the Bulgarian market, Control Union supports our country’s quest for a greener and more sustainable future.