How does the certification work?
We calculate our climate footprint, set annual emission reduction targets and plan concrete measures to reduce our climate impact. The work follows a clear structure in which we continuously follow up and adjust as necessary. The emissions we cannot yet eliminate are offset by investing in certified climate projects with measurable climate benefits – such as reforestation and agroforestry that meet international standards such as the Gold Standard and VCS.
What are the emission reduction targets?
In order for a product or service to be certified under Climate Activator, greenhouse gas emissions must be reduced by at least 25% by 2030 compared to the established base year. Our goal is to reduce our emissions by 50% by 2030 compared to the base year 2014.
The calculations must follow the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and cover the entire climate impact – including the supply chain (scope 1, 2 and 3). After 2030, emissions will continue to decrease in line with the Paris Agreement and the goal is to reach net zero by 2050.
Who reviews and audits the certification?
Audit and review of the Climate Activator certification is performed by independent third party certification bodies. These organisations are independent of the Anthesis Group, which administers the standard, and are accredited to ensure an independent, objective and credible review.
Examples of such certification bodies are Ecocert and Preferred by Nature, which have extensive experience of auditing and certification within climate, environment and supply chains. They conduct annual audits to review companies’ climate data, emissions reductions, compensation and compliance with the Climate Activator standard requirements.
Ongoing climate project: Protection of rainforest in Acre, Brazil
Acre in Brazil is known for its rich rainforests. The forest is a key resource for many people in the area. Therefore, a balance is needed between the preservation of natural values and the need for social and economic development.
Forest protection for climate and nature
Brazil’s rainforests are unique ecosystems that are essential to preserve – both to protect biodiversity and to mitigate climate change. When forest disappears through, for example, logging or slash-and-burn farming, the ability to function as a carbon sink decreases. The forest then absorbs and stores less carbon dioxide, while slash-and-burn farming leads to large amounts of greenhouse gases being released directly into the atmosphere. If the land is then used as pasture for livestock, the climate impact increases further through the release of methane.
It is therefore crucial to protect the rainforest, not only for nature and the climate, but also to create long-term conditions for sustainable agriculture in the region, where coffee cultivation is an important part.
Photo: Anthesis
The Russas project is a REDD+ initiative* that protects approximately 42,000 hectares of tropical rainforest along the Valparaiso river. Stopping deforestation preserves carbon dioxide that would otherwise have been released into the atmosphere – a concrete effort to reduce emissions and counteract global warming. So far, the project has already saved 5,354 hectares of forest with significant climate benefits as a result.
The project has a major impact on many endangered species, and by protecting forests, the habitats of these species are preserved and the health and diversity of ecosystems are maintained.
*REDD+ stands for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation. It is an international framework under the United Nations Climate Convention (UNFCCC) that aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by protecting, preserving and sustainably managing forests in developing countries.
The Russas project not only contributes to climate benefits – it also creates important social improvements for the local population:
- Job opportunities: New jobs in forest protection, monitoring and training strengthen the local economy and provide people with a more secure supply
- Education: Better infrastructure and targeted educational efforts give more children the opportunity to go to school and build a brighter future
- Health and hygiene: By building 35 sanitation facilities and investing in health education and dental care, the quality of life for many families is improved
Photo: Anthesis
The Russas project is an important part of the Acre region’s commitment to sustainable development and conservation of the Amazon rainforest. By combining climate action, biodiversity protection and social development, the project shows how local communities can become key players in the fight against climate change – and at the same time create better living conditions for people and nature.
Photo: Anthesis
Quality Assurance and Certification
The Russas project is certified according to the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS). It guarantees that the climate benefits are carefully reviewed and verified by an independent third party.
The project contributes to the following global goals:
Ongoing climate projects: Biogas projects for households in Uganda
Uganda is an important coffee country. It is also a country where many households still cook over open fires – which leads to both greenhouse gas emissions and harmful smoke.
Many households in Uganda lack access to modern energy solutions and still cook over open fire. This traditional method means that large amounts of wood are consumed every day. This not only causes extensive emissions of harmful smoke and greenhouse gases, but also contributes to deforestation and depletion of the country’s natural resources.
The health impact is serious – inhaling the smoke leads to respiratory diseases and causes more premature deaths than tuberculosis, malaria and AIDS together. Women and children are particularly affected, as they are often responsible for cooking and collecting fuel. This exposes them to health risks and takes time away from education and other important activities.
Photo: Anthesis
The biogas project provides access to locally produced stoves that are cleaner and more efficient. In addition, you need 50% less wood than in traditional stoves. The stoves not only reduce harmful smoke emissions, but also help to reduce the load on Uganda’s forests, counteract deforestation and limit climate impact.
Biogas stoves convert organic waste such as animal manure and household waste into clean and renewable gas. Instead of burning wood or fossil fuels, the waste is collected in an airtight container where microorganisms break down the material in an oxygen-free environment. The methane gas that is formed is directed to the stove and provides even and efficient combustion, completely without smoke.
Photo: Anthesis
- Improved health: Reduced exposure to indoor air pollution reduces the risk of respiratory diseases
- Protection of the environment: More efficient stoves help combat deforestation by reducing firewood consumption
- Strong communities: The time saved on collecting fuel allows women and children to focus on education and income-generating activities
- Reduced emissions: Cleaner cooking methods reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global climate action
Quality Assurance and Certification
The initiative is certified according to the Gold Standard, which guarantees careful monitoring, reporting and third-party verification of the project’s impacts.
The project contributes to the following global goals:
