Scope 3 Just Got Serious: What the New Code Means for Climate Leaders

 If you’ve been dodging Scope 3 emissions like a difficult Zoom call, time’s up. The VCMI just released the Scope 3 Action Code of Practicea long-awaited playbook to bring order, clarity, and accountability to one of the messiest corners of corporate climate action.

No more excuses. No more greenwashing. This Code offers companies a realistic path to cut their most significant emissions, and to do it credibly.

Quick Refresher: What Are Scope 3 Emissions?

Scope 3 emissions = everything your business touches that isn’t under your roof. 

Think:

• Your suppliers’ emissions
• The freight that moves your products
• How your customers use (and dispose of) what you sell
   

It’s emissions that happen outside your four walls, but because of your operations.

The Reality Check: Most Companies Are Falling Behind

Research from CDP and Bain shows that 47% of companies are failing to meet Scope 3 targets. And it’s not due to a lack of ambition. The problem? Measurement is tough. Supply chains are long. Incentives are misaligned.

That’s where the Scope 3 Code of Practice steps in.

What the Code Brings to the Table

This new guidance from the VCMI is more than a checklist, it’s a call for corporate courage. Here’s what it demands:

• Science-Based Targets
  Not guesses. Not PR. Not Greenwashing. Targets must align with the science of staying below 1.5°C.
  
  
• Decarbonisation First
  Carbon credits aren’t a hall pass. You need to cut real emissions within your value chain first.
  
  
• High-Integrity Credits Only
  If you use carbon credits, they better be, permanent, verifiable, and impactful.
  
  

Why It’s a Game-Changer

For the first time, companies have structured guidance that marries ambition with integrity. It also acknowledges a truth we see every day: decarbonising Scope 3 takes timeand in the meantime, climate finance through quality carbon credits can keep the momentum alive.

Ready to Lead on Scope 3?

At One Tribe, we’re already working with organisations to:

• Understand their Scope 3 footprint
• Build decarbonisation roadmaps
• Access carbon credits that meet the highest standards

Curious what this new Code means for your team?

Let’s make a plan. Book a free consultation today.