B3 informed that it has offset 4,782.72 tons of CO2 equivalent, related to its 2016 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions not liable to be reduced, thus becoming a “carbon neutral” company for another year. To offset this amount of CO2, 4,783 carbon credits, called CERs (Certified Emission Reductions) and generated under the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) of Kyoto Protocol, were purchased. The initiative has been in place since 2013, 2011 and 2012 base years, and since then this process has been performed yearly.
This carbon emission offset project, which is located in Santo André, São Paulo State, is aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through fossil fuel exchange, and thus reduce air pollution and the environmental impact of fuel transportation (when compared to oil), while increasing the availability of natural gas to other companies in that region and supporting various social programs.
GHG emissions compensation is an evolutionary step in B3’s carbon offsetting efforts begun in 2009, when the company completed its first GHG emissions inventory. As of 2010 the inventory began to be verified by a third party, and since then B3 has offset its emissions through renewable energy distribution projects in the Brazilian power network and small hydroelectric power plants. This type of project is aimed at the production of clean electricity to minimize environmental impacts.
B3 expects this initiative will help to identify, manage and reduce its environmental impact, and contribute to global efforts against climate change and its effects. B3 also seeks to foster the adoption of best sustainability practices by listed companies and the market in general. The initiative is in line with the company’s Sustainability Policy, as approved by the Board of Directors in April 2013, in its Environmental Pillar.