Carbon Calculator Methodology
How xProduct calculates carbon footprint estimates (tCO₂e per year). Transparent, location-based, and designed for early-stage sustainability planning.
Overview
The xProduct Carbon Footprint Calculator provides a quick, high-level estimate of annual greenhouse gas emissions. It converts everyday activity data into a single, comparable unit: tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e) per year.
This methodology is intended for awareness, internal planning, and early sustainability work. It is not a substitute for certified carbon accounting or ISO-compliant reporting.
What data we use
The calculator uses user-provided annual activity data, including:
- Electricity consumption (kWh)
- Gas consumption (kWh)
- Vehicle travel distance (km or miles)
- Flight activity (short, medium, and long haul)
No personal data is required to view results, and inputs are used only to perform calculations.
How emissions are calculated
For each category, emissions are calculated by multiplying activity data by a recognised emission factor:
Emissions (kgCO₂e) = Activity × Emission factor
Total (tCO₂e/year) = Sum of emissions ÷ 1000
Results are then aggregated to show:
- Total annual emissions (tCO₂e/year)
- Category breakdown (electricity, gas, vehicles, flights)
- Percentage contribution of each category
Emission factors
The calculator uses location-based average emission factors derived from recognised UK and EU public datasets (such as government or official baseline factors).
These factors represent typical emissions per unit of activity and are updated periodically to reflect changes in energy mixes and transport efficiency.
What “CO₂e” means
CO₂e stands for carbon dioxide equivalent. It allows different greenhouse gases to be expressed as a single comparable value based on their global warming potential.
Important limitations
- This tool provides guidance only and is not ISO 14064 or ISO 14067 compliant.
- Results are estimates and may differ from supplier-specific or market-based reporting.
- Lifecycle analysis (LCA) and full Scope 1–3 accounting are out of scope.
When to use this calculator
- Early sustainability planning
- Internal awareness and education
- Drafting initial Digital Product Passport narratives
- Pre-assessment before formal verification