Emissions Reporting Demonstrates Continuous Improvement
The first step toward improving any process is measuring what matters. Southern Clams Ltd, based in Ōtepoti Dunedin, understands this well. Since 2010, the company has partnered with Whirika to develop annual carbon emissions inventories and reporting. Over this time, Southern Clams has achieved a 35% reduction in operating emissions compared to their 2010 baseline.
Whirika’s emissions inventories are ISO14064-1 compliant and align with Ministry for the Environment reporting guidelines. Each inventory includes:
Scope 1: Direct emissions from fuel use
Scope 2: Emissions from purchased electricity
Scope 3: Emissions from activities such as air travel, taxi and car hire, accommodation, water use, and landfill waste
Southern Clams has consistently demonstrated a commitment to improving the sustainability of their operations. The impact of energy and emissions savings projects initiated by Southern Clams have been able to be verified with the emissions inventories developed by Whirika.
These Projects Include:
Solar Energy Installation
The installation of over 200 m2 of rooftop solar panels in 2018 has made a noticeable impact on Southern Clams emissions inventory. The solar array reduced purchased electricity and therefore associated emissions from electricity use by 40%. Equivalent to approximately 25 tonnes of CO2 per year.Refrigeration System Upgrade
Southern Clams installed an array of CO2 refrigeration units in 2019 which provided a modest energy efficiency gain over the existing plant. Most importantly, the new refrigeration system is a departure from high-global warming potential R507 refrigerant. 1 kilogram of R507 released into the atmosphere (typically from leaking refrigeration systems) has the same global warming impact as nearly 4,000 kg of CO2.Carbon Forestry and Offsetting
Southern Clams also owns carbon forestry registered in the NZ Emissions Trading Scheme, giving them the opportunity to offset their residual emissions. Whirika facilitated this process, ensuring transparent reporting via the Markit carbon registry.
Whirika brings experience working across a broad range of commercial and industrial operations. If you're looking to understand, track, and reduce your emissions—without the overhead of expensive accreditation systems like Toitū—our energy and carbon team is ready to support you.