Carbon Neutrality & Offsetting - The Next Step After Calculating Your Carbon Footprint
What does climate neutrality mean for your company?
Climate neutrality is not an end goal, but rather the result of a structured strategy. Companies that want to become climate neutral first need a solid foundation: a comprehensive carbon footprint assessment that captures all sources of emissions.
Based on this, reduction targets can be derived, unavoidable residual emissions can be offset through verified compensation projects, and climate neutrality can be verified by an independent body, ensuring your claim is credible and legally enforceable.
Our Services for Climate Neutrality
Climate neutrality begins with a robust carbon footprint. Kiwa offers two recognized approaches depending on the scope and objectives of your sustainability strategy:
The Kiwa Method: Carbon Neutrality 360°
Climate neutrality is not just a marketing promise, but a measurable, verifiable result. Our four-step process covers the entire journey from initial emissions tracking to the recognized Kiwa seal.
SERVICES
Developing a Corporate Carbon Footprint The foundation of any climate neutrality strategy is a comprehensive, methodologically sound greenhouse gas inventory. Kiwa uses the R<THiNK software for this purpose and records all emission-relevant activities in accordance with the GHG Protocol and ISO 14064-1. • Scope 1: Direct emissions from own sources (combustion, vehicle fleet, production processes) • Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity and heat • Scope 3: Emissions in the supply chain – often the greatest lever for reduction Results: • Quantified Corporate Carbon Footprint (CCF) • Identified emission hotspots and reduction potentials • Declaration of conformity according to ISO 14064-1 / GHG Protocol
REDUCE
Emissions reduction plan according to SBTi Climate neutrality without genuine emissions reduction is not credible. Based on the CCF, Kiwa develops an actionable reduction plan aligned with the principles of the Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi). • Defined reduction targets with a timeline • Energy efficiency strategy to reduce costs (OpEx effect) • Annual monitoring and progress review Results: • Emissions reduction plan with measurable targets • Annual review process • Documented progress for CSRD reporting
OFFSET
Targeted offsetting of residual emissions What cannot be avoided can be offset through verified climate protection projects. Kiwa provides support in the selection, evaluation, and procurement of emissions credits—exclusively from internationally recognized standards. Recognized standards: Gold Standard, Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Kyoto-compliant mechanisms • Recommendation of suitable offset systems • Verification of legitimacy and actual environmental impacts • Protection against greenwashing risks Important: Offsetting does not replace reduction. Kiwa recommends offsetting only for unavoidable residual emissions following a proven reduction strategy.
Who benefits from Carbon Neutrality Certification?
- Sustainability Managers & CSR Officers They coordinate the sustainability strategy and need measurable, reportable results. Carbon neutrality certification provides verified data for your CSRD report and establishes internal legitimacy for further measures.
- Management & C-Level Climate neutrality is a strategic decision with implications for reputation and competitiveness. The Kiwa seal independently validates your claim and protects against accusations of greenwashing from investors, customers, and regulators.
- Communication & Marketing A verified climate neutrality certificate is not just a self-declaration, but audited proof. The Kiwa seal can be used in product communications, tenders, and sustainability reports.
Why choose Kiwa for Climate Neutrality?
- Accredited Independence Kiwa is a DAkkS- and UKAS-accredited certification and verification body. This means: Our seal is not a self-declaration, but a verified third-party certification recognized in tenders, CSRD reports, and investor meetings.
- Everything from a single source From the carbon footprint (CCF/OEF) and reduction plan to offset assessment and verification: Kiwa supports you every step of the way no switching providers, no duplication of effort, clear accountability.
- R<THINK – proprietary software for efficient accounting Kiwa’s proprietary R<THINK software significantly accelerates data collection and emissions calculation. This saves time and costs and delivers a robust, audit-proof database.
Frequently asked questions about Carbon Neutrality
What is the difference between carbon-neutral and net-zero?
Carbon neutrality means that emissions generated during the reporting year are fully offset. Net zero is a long-term goal that focuses on actual emissions reductions and provides for offsetting only for unavoidable residual emissions. Kiwa recommends a combined approach: short-term neutrality plus a long-term reduction strategy.
Do we need a CCF first before we can become climate neutral?
Yes. A recognized climate neutrality certification (e.g., according to ISO 14068) requires a complete, methodologically sound greenhouse gas inventory. Without a reliable carbon footprint, credible offsetting is not possible.
Can climate neutrality certification be used in CSRD reporting?
Yes. Kiwa verification in accordance with ISO 14068 provides accredited evidence that is recognized for CSRD reporting. Data from the CCF is directly incorporated into relevant ESRS reporting items.
Are all carbon offset projects equivalent?
No. Kiwa carefully verifies whether offset projects meet the requirements of internationally recognized standards (Gold Standard, VCS). We actively protect our customers from the risks of greenwashing associated with unverified offset projects.
What is ISO 14068?
ISO 14068-1 is the international standard for climate neutrality. It specifies how climate neutrality must be calculated, documented, and verified. Kiwa is accredited according to this standard.
Next step: Get in touch now
Planning for climate neutrality we’ve got you covered from the very start.
Whether you’re just getting started or already have a carbon footprint assessment: Our experts will show you the fastest path to verified climate neutrality.