What carbon handprint means

The carbon handprint is the counterpart to the carbon footprint. While the footprint measures a company’s own emissions, the handprint measures how much a company’s product or service reduces the emissions of its customers or others.

Handprint is most relevant for companies whose solution (technology, service, or material) enables others to reduce their emissions.

Who this is for

Technology and service companies whose solution replaces a more carbon-intensive alternative; material manufacturers whose product reduces energy consumption in buildings or processes; companies that want to communicate their positive impact to customers and investors.

How carbon handprint is calculated

Handprint calculation compares the lifecycle emissions of your solution against a reference scenario: what the customer would otherwise have used. The difference is the avoided emission, i.e. the handprint.

Calculation is based on applied LCA methodology and the practices emerging in the field. We document assumptions and sensitivities transparently. Timeline depends on how quickly the required data and reference information can be gathered.

What you get

Handprint calculation and report
Comparison to reference scenario with justification
Methodology documentation for customer communication and audit
Guidance on communication approach

Frequently asked questions

Is there one established handprint standard?

The field is still evolving and there is no single universally accepted standard. We use the best available methodology, lean on established LCA practices, and document assumptions and choices transparently so the calculation withstands scrutiny.

Can handprint be used in marketing?

Yes, but claims must be justified. We guide the framing so it withstands scrutiny.

Carbon Handprint