Active Devon, a non-profit advocating for physical activity, has integrated environmental responsibility into its mission by developing a simple, cost-effective approach to carbon footprinting. Initially exploring their own emissions, they now champion sustainability across the Active Partnership network.

Their process began with research, using resources like How Bad Are Bananas and UK Government Greenhouse Gas Emission Factors. They built internal expertise and created an Excel-based carbon calculator, avoiding costly online tools. This tool focuses on major emission sources: office energy, commuting, business travel, home working, catering, equipment, and finance. Data is gathered through staff surveys and assumptions where direct measurement is difficult.

Active Devon updates its footprint annually, enabling year-on-year comparisons and informed decision-making. The results feed into a Carbon Reduction Action Plan, targeting high-impact areas such as travel, energy efficiency, and procurement. Staff engagement throughout the process has fostered awareness and behaviour change, while the organisation shares its methodology with other partnerships.

Key outcomes include a reliable carbon baseline, evidence-based action planning, and strengthened advocacy for low-carbon lifestyles. Their approach demonstrates that small organisations can lead on climate action without expensive consultants by focusing on major emissions, using free resources, and maintaining team engagement.

Read more at Sport England.