. carbon emissions is one of the most relevant issues on the contemporary environmental and business scene. The growing concern about the increase in the concentration of gases in the atmosphere is driving governments, companies and civil society to adopt measures to reduce the impacts caused by these emissions.
In this article, we explain what carbon emissions and how it is possible to reduce or neutralize their consequences by acting responsibly towards the environment.
What are carbon emissions?
. carbon emissions refers to the release of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases (GHG) into the atmosphere, resulting mainly from the burning of fossil fuels, industrial processes, agricultural activities and deforestation. This phenomenon contributes significantly to the increase in the greenhouse effect and, consequently, to global climate change.
In Brazil, as in many parts of the world, the carbon emissions is linked to strategic sectors such as transportation, industry and agriculture. Monitoring and managing these emissions is fundamental to protecting the planet.
The reduction in carbon emissions is a commitment that involves various strategies and technologies. Companies from different sectors have invested in sustainable practices that aim not only to reduce the amount of carbon emitted, but also to offset the impact generated.
Among the main actions to reduce carbon emissionsThe main ones are:
1. transition to renewable energies
The use of green energy sources, such as solar, wind and hydroelectric, is essential to reduce the carbon emissions. Replacing fossil fuels with clean alternatives avoids the release of large volumes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
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2. Energy efficiency
The adoption of technologies and processes that increase energy efficiency makes it possible to reduce the carbon emissions without compromising productivity. This includes everything from modernizing equipment to optimizing logistics systems.
3. Development of new solutions, such as biomethane
Biomethane is a renewable energy source that helps to reduce the carbon emissionsIt is also used in the transportation and industrial sectors. Produced from the purification of biogas (which is generated through the treatment of solid waste), it replaces fossil fuels, helping to lower emissions and stimulate the circular economy.
4. Offsetting emissions
In addition to reduction, many companies adopt compensation mechanisms, such as the acquisition of carbon credits and support for reforestation and environmental preservation projects. These actions help to neutralize carbon emissions which cannot be completely eliminated from operations.
5. Sustainable practices in agriculture
Agriculture is one of the sectors with great potential for this reduction. Techniques such as no-till farming, rational use of inputs and recovery of degraded areas reduce emissions and promote carbon capture in the soil, contributing to a more sustainable cycle.
How do Simpar and its subsidiaries work to reduce carbon emissions?
Simpar and its subsidiaries act strategically to reduce the carbon emissions and other greenhouse gases (GHG). The decarbonization process involves the entire organization, with corporate policies that guide mitigation and compensation actions.
The Group has made a public commitment to reduce the intensity of its emissions by up to 15% by 2030, in addition to having initiatives guided by its Climate Change Policy, in force since 2022, and its Sustainability Policy.
The main initiatives include:
- Emissions Management: Continuous monitoring of the results and initiatives of the holding's companies, with performance analysis and a constant search for new solutions to mitigate the environmental impact of operations.
- Fleet renewal: Controlled companies such as JSL, VAMOS and CS Brasil maintain fleets with a low average age and have policies of continuous vehicle renewal, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, as well as providing greater safety and agility in operations.
- Alternative fuels: Encouraging the use of ethanol, biodiesel, CNG (used by JSL trucks) and biomethane. Movida ended 2024 with 93% of its fleet made up of flex-fuel vehicles, encouraging the refueling of its rental cars with ethanol.
- Electromobility: Vamos and JSL have increased the number of electric assets in their fleets, such as forklifts, trucks and others.
- Renewable Energy: Solar energy projects are expanding. By 2023, Movida had 54 stores powered by solar energy. BRT Sorocaba, a system managed by CS Infra, uses photovoltaic panels to power its terminals and Ciclus Rio generates electricity using biomethane, ensuring the energy self-sufficiency of its operations in Seropédica (RJ).
- Emissions Offsetting: Movida has a Carbon Free initiative, which allows customers to offset greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from their rentals by planting trees. VAMOS offers its clients low-carbon solutions through the VAMOS Carbon Program, an initiative that makes it possible to offset emissions from leased assets.
- Circular Economy: Ciclus Ambiental transforms solid urban waste into biogas, most of which is converted into biomethane, used both in industry and as a vehicle fuel. The surplus is converted into electricity. Solid waste management follows strict standards, prioritizing reduction, reuse and proper disposal.
With these actions, Simpar reinforces its commitment to sustainability and the reduction of carbon emissions, actively contributing to the fight against climate change.
Conclusion
The control of carbon emissions and the concentration of greenhouse gases are global challenges that require the joint mobilization of governments, companies and citizens. Corporate action to reduce and offset carbon emissions is an example of corporate responsibility and long-term vision.
By implementing mitigation and compensation actions, companies strengthen their reputation, drive innovation and contribute to a safer and more balanced future, with lower climate risks for generations to come.
Investing in green energy, clean technologies, sustainable agricultural practices and innovative solutions such as biogas are essential ways of mitigating the impact of gases in the atmosphere and building a more resilient and sustainable society.