Q: What is the benefit of calculating carbon emissions? 

A: Calculating and reporting carbon emissions will show where your CO2 emissions come from and help you plan how to reduce your emissions; it is important for tackling the challenge of climate change and the drive towards Net Zero. Customers are increasingly demanding the data from their supply chains and often, reducing emissions can reduce costs.

Q: What are Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions?

A: The Greenhouse Gas Protocol categorises a business’ emissions into Scopes 1, 2 and 3. Scope 1 covers emissions released directly from a company’s controlled assets, for example those from onsite industrial processes or company vehicles. Scope 2 emissions are those released indirectly from the company but within the company’s control. An example is the purchase of electricity. Scope 3 emission are indirect emissions out of the company’s control and account for around 70% of a business’ carbon footprint.

Q: Is there an industry standard checklist of exactly what should be measured for each scope of emissions?

The Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol defines the Scopes and what they cover - https://ghgprotocol.org/tools-resources - but there is no comprehensive, universally agreed and accepted checklist.

Q: What is the international standard, and should I align to it? 

A: The international standard for organisational GHG quantification and reporting is ISO 14064. There are other schemes an organisation can align to, but supply chains are international and so alignment with and verification against ISO 14064 is likely to dominate and be expected by customers. 

Q: Are there standard methodologies for carbon calculation and reporting?  

A: There are many methodologies for calculating carbon emissions. The CHSA’s advice is to work with a consultancy able to adapt their approach to the needs of your business.

A variety of organisations will independently verify data, however verification via a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited body is the ‘gold standard’ in the UK.

Q: Which emission factor database would be recommended for calculating Scope 3 emissions?

A: It depends on where you are and what you're measuring. The Carbon Accounting Alliance is collaborating across the industry to produce guidance on which emissions factor databases are best for which use. A beta site is under development that will list a lot of the most common databases: https://wiki.carbonaccountingalliance.com/index.php?title=Portal:Emission_Factors 

Watershed (watershed.com) has published an emissions factors database, CEDA, for open-source use with attribution.

DEFRA (The Government Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) has published a set of emissions factors covering transport, materials, waste etc: https://ghgprotocol.org/Third-Party-Databases/Defra.

Q: Can you recommend any reference materials?

A: The UK Business Climate Hub is a good resource, designed specifically for SMEs. It is a Government supported portal: https://businessclimatehub.uk/become-a-net-zero-business/

SMEs can also make use of free carbon calculator tools, such as Clean Growth UK.

The EU has published guidance called Voluntary SME. It can be considered a sustainability standard. The UK is developing something similar - the SME Sustainability Data Reportingstandard. The intention is set out a consistent format and structure for reporting and so standardise the data being requested of SMEs by large organisations.  It is currently out for consultation: https://www.bankersfornetzero.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/From-Burden-to-Benefit.pdf.

Q: Can I compare one organisation’s carbon emissions to another’s?

A: It can be challenging to compare the carbon footprints of different organisations unless you are certain the measurement boundary and approach taken are the same or very similar. If one organisation is measuring emissions more robustly, overall emissions may appear higher when the reality is the other organisation is not measuring as much. Generally, the most practical is to focus on how an organisation is progressing against its own targets and measurements.

Q: Given the emphasis on reducing carbon, has there been any progress in comparing the carbon impact of biotech cleaning products versus traditional petrochemical-based ones?

A: Not to our knowledge. It is extremely difficult to compare carbon emissions across technology areas in this way because of the different methodologies used. 

The CHSA’s advice is evaluate the transparency of the organisation’s approach, the quality of the data, and whether the data has been independently verified. 

Lorcan Mekitarian is chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

The CHSA operates Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers of soft tissue, plastic refuse sacks, cotton mops and cleaning chemicals. It also operates an Accreditation Scheme for distributors.

During the 83 Audits conducted in the six months to 30 June 2025, the Inspector reviewed a total of 20,780 product lines in the Accreditation Scheme for distributors.  Across the Schemes for soft tissue, plastic sacks and cotton mops, 926 product labels were checked, and 687 individual products were tested. 

The labels are checked to ensure they indicate the manufacturer to enable tracing and accurately represent the contents of the packaging so buyers can be certain’ what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. 

Depending on the Accreditation Scheme, the product checks involve confirming the sheet count, width, duty, weight and performance of the product. The Inspector also assesses members’ quality assurance procedures. Members of the Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers of soft tissue, plastic sacks and cotton mops achieved up to 86.2% compliance with product standards, reflecting a strong performance across all categories. For distributors the Inspector confirms that where product falls within the scope of an Accreditation Scheme, it is either from a CHSA Accredited Manufacturer or conforms to the specification of the relevant scheme. 79% of relevant products were found to be from Accredited Manufacturers. 

In addition to the product and label checks, the Inspector now also seeks evidence of a SMETA Audit (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) from manufacturing members or their suppliers who have completed the process in advance of the end of year deadline for having this process in place. 

Nicky Biggart, chair of the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes, explained: “Our Accreditation Schemes offer buyers of cleaning and hygiene products the guarantee that ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. They also underpin quality and efficacy.

“The inspection process is fundamental to this guarantee. It provides buyers with evidence they need to trust the CHSA Accreditation Scheme Mark.”

In the small number of instances where product was found not to meet the relevant Scheme Standard or Technical Regulations, the Inspector raised a ‘product of concern’. Working closely with the manufacturer or distributor involved, the Inspector has supported those members to address the issue within a specified time frame. 

Every CHSA member is required to sign the CHSA’s rigorous Code of Practice, which includes the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;
• Provides supporting information for claims made;
• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and
• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

@CHSACleaning

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

TEL: 0800 243 919

The CHSA operates Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers of soft tissue, plastic refuse sacks, cotton mops and cleaning chemicals. It also operates an Accreditation Scheme for distributors.

During the 83 Audits conducted in the six months to 30 June 2025, the Inspector reviewed a total of 20,780 product lines in the Accreditation Scheme for distributors.  Across the Schemes for soft tissue, plastic sacks and cotton mops, 926 product labels were checked, and 687 individual products were tested. 

The labels are checked to ensure they indicate the manufacturer to enable tracing and accurately represent the contents of the packaging so buyers can be certain’ what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. 

Depending on the Accreditation Scheme, the product checks involve confirming the sheet count, width, duty, weight and performance of the product. The Inspector also assesses members’ quality assurance procedures. Members of the Accreditation Schemes for manufacturers of soft tissue, plastic sacks and cotton mops achieved up to 86.2% compliance with product standards, reflecting a strong performance across all categories. For distributors the Inspector confirms that where product falls within the scope of an Accreditation Scheme, it is either from a CHSA Accredited Manufacturer or conforms to the specification of the relevant scheme. 79% of relevant products were found to be from Accredited Manufacturers. 

In addition to the product and label checks, the Inspector now also seeks evidence of a SMETA Audit (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) from manufacturing members or their suppliers who have completed the process in advance of the end of year deadline for having this process in place. 

Nicky Biggart, Chair of the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes, explained: “Our Accreditation Schemes offer buyers of cleaning and hygiene products the guarantee that ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’. They also underpin quality and efficacy.

“The inspection process is fundamental to this guarantee. It provides buyers with evidence they need to trust the CHSA Accreditation Scheme Mark.”

In the small number of instances where product was found not to meet the relevant Scheme Standard or Technical Regulations, the Inspector raised a ‘product of concern’. Working closely with the manufacturer or distributor involved, the Inspector has supported those members to address the issue within a specified time frame. 

Every CHSA member is required to sign the CHSA’s rigorous Code of Practice, which includes the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;
• Provides supporting information for claims made;
• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and
• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

It makes it possible to understand the base line and identify the options for change. Then they provide the information needed to track and evidence a reduction. It sounds simple but, as Lorcan Mekitarian, chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association (CHSA) observes, building an understanding of emissions in the detail required is complex. 

The process begins with understanding Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions. The Greenhouse Gas Protocol categorises emissions according to the different aspects of the business and has defined Scopes 1, 2 and 3. Accurately measuring and reporting emissions across these three scopes gives businesses a better understanding of their environmental impact. 

Scopes 1 and 2 are those emissions controlled by the company. Scope 1 covers those emissions released directly from a company’s controlled assets. This could be combustion of fuels for heating or company vehicles, or it could be the emissions released from industrial processes onsite. Scope 2 emissions are those released indirectly from the company, for example through the purchasing of electricity for office spaces. Finally, Scope 3 emission are indirect emissions and account for around 70% of a business’ carbon footprint. These emissions occur in the value chain, including both upstream and downstream. Examples of upstream emission origins are purchased goods and services, waste management, and transportation and distribution from suppliers. Downstream emissions can originate from transportation and distribution to customers, leased assets, and end-of-life of sold goods.

Our members can find plenty of information about Scopes 1, 2 and 3 on the internet and elsewhere but it’s much less clear about what to count and how. Who in the supply chain is responsible for calculating and counting which emission? What sits with the manufacturer, distributor or end user? Is it a problem if the same carbon emissions are counted by more than one organisation? What’s the right methodology to use for the calculations? Can the carbon emissions of different products from one manufacturer be compared? Can the emissions of a product from one manufacturer be compared with product from another?

The key is to go back to basics and remember the purpose of carbon reporting. In the drive towards Net Zero, the primary goal for any organization counting their emissions to reduce them. It is the direction of travel that matters, not establishing some sort of absolute total of the quantity of carbon emissions. This means it does not matter if some emissions are counted by more than one organization. For example, when it comes to the emissions involved in transporting product from the manufacturer to the distributor it is more useful thatboth count them and so have the data they need to look for reductions.

The plethora or methodologies makes it impossible to compare products from different organisations. There is no consistency between what and how they count so one product sourced internationally might appear to have lower emissions when compared to something manufactured in the UK. Drill down, though, and you could quickly find that the transport from overseas has not been included so the comparison is false. Comparing products from one organization is likely to be valid because it’s reasonable to assume the methodology used by that organization is consistent across all its products.

At the CHSA, we do not advocate one methodology over another. Instead, as always, our goal is to advocate an ethical approach. We are supporting our members to genuinely cut their carbon emissions and be transparent in the approach they are taking in the process. This philosophy aligns to our Code of Practice and Ethical Marketing Commitment. Signed by every member, they require them to be open and honest in their business conduct and for statements and claims to be truthful and supported by evidence. This philosophy is at the heart of all we do.

Lorcan Mekitarian is chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

As well as guaranteeing ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’, members of these Schemes have now also committed to adhering to quality, environment, health and safety, and regulatory standards. 

The changes were introduced following unanimous decisions taken at the Scheme Annual General Meetings by members to tighten the entry criteria to these CHSA Accreditation Schemes.

Specifically, members of these Schemes will now have to provide evidence of business systems and processes through certification, such as ISO 9001 or ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 where relevant. They will also have to evidence compliance with regulations such as the Detergent Regulations and the Classification, Labelling and Packaging regulation where relevant, and evidence efficacy claims.

Lorcan Mekitarian, chair of the CHSA, explained: “Our primary focus is to raise and maintain standards in our industry. In the context of the uncertain and complex economic environment we have seen an increasing number of companies cut corners to cut prices. In addition, the pandemic changed the market for cleaning chemicals as companies made all sorts of claims without evidence to back them up. This has continued and been accelerated by the demand for sustainable solutions. The changes our members have introduced to these Accreditation address these challenges. Buyers who look for the Accreditation Mark can be certain product claims can be evidenced, the company operates certified businesses systems and processes and ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’.”

These, and all the CHSA’s Accreditation Scheme are now open for applications. 

This change follows the CHSA’s introduction of an ethical audit requirement. Thischange was unanimously supported by all manufacturing scheme members at theirrecent Annual General Meetings. All manufacturing facilities producing CHSA Accredited Product must now have a ‘2 Pillar SMETA Audit’ completed by the end of 2025. It covers labour standards and health and safety, working conditions and the fair treatment of workers. The workplace safety measures and occupational health standards will also be assessed. 

The ethical audit is known as a SMETA Audit (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit, which has been used by UK retailers for many years to monitor their supply chains. More than 85,000 businesses from across the world have made Sedex their trusted partner in creating a more socially and environmentally sustainable supply chain.

The CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes are for manufacturers of paper-based products, plastic-based products, cotton-based products, and cleaning chemicals, and for distributors of cleaning and hygiene products. They guarantee ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’.

The CHSA has integrated the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code into its rigorous Code of Practice, which is signed by every member. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;

• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and

• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

@CHSACleaning

www.CHSA.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

DONALD TRUMP'S tenancy in the White House and his commitment to tariffs has upended the commercial world as we knew it. Uncertainty is here. The future is much less predictable. Costs in supply chains will increase, markets outside the US may be flooded with product now too expensive to sell there, investment is likely to decline, and innovation may drop off as business hold their breath waiting to see what happens next. 

In this complex and challenging environment, it is easy to lose focus on ethics. Operating responsible and environmentally sustainable business practices can seem like a cost that can be cut but now, more than ever, it is crucial. An ethical approach to business builds trust and reputation. It can also be a powerful motivator, fostering loyalty and commitment amongst employees. Ultimately it underpins long term relationships that generate a better financial performance. 

Businesses committed to ethical practices will promote fair labour practices. They will adhere to national and international laws and respect human rights. They will be aware of their environmental footprint, aiming to reduce it and tread lightly. Importantly, as a buyer, you can trust them not to cut important corners. 

Maintaining an ethical business

To make sure you work with ethical businesses you need to look beyond your immediate supplier. The whole supply chain matters. Do your supplier’s suppliers have ethically and environmentally sustainable business practices? How can you know?

Our advice is to seek third party certification. It’s why we have introduced a new requirement for all manufacturers of CHSA Accredited Product to have a SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) Audit. In addition, if a distributor member purchases from a non-Accredited manufacturer, that manufacturer is also expected to be registered with Sedex and provide proof of their Sedex compliance. 

Supply chain data

Sedex is a global technology company that specialises in data, insights and professional services to empower supply chain sustainability. They offer supply chain due diligence and continuous improvement at scale, translating international principles into practical activities. The organisation has over 20 years’ expertise, its community comprising over 85,000 businesses and 104,000 supply chain sites of employment/work, across 180 countries and 35 sectors globally.

We were delighted when our members unanimously backed the commitment to Sedex at their recent Annual General Meetings. The minimum requirement we have set is a ‘2 Pillar SMETA Audit’, which covers labour standards and health and safetyat the factories manufacturing CHSA Accredited products. Compliance with labour laws, working conditions and the fair treatment of workers will be evaluated, and the workplace safety measures and occupational health standards will be assessed. The audit needs to be carried out by the end of 2025.

We have also just introduced commitment to ethical marketing, which is being signed by every member. By doing so they commit to adhering to four ethical principles:

1. All statements and claims are truthful.

2. Supporting evidence, such as data sheets, reports and certificates is available on request to substantiate all product and service claims.

3. All statements and claims are transparent. For example, it is clearly indicated if the claim applies to the product, the packaging or both.

4. All statements and claims are meaningful. For example, the term eco-friendly must be defined in relation to all aspects of the product and substantiated across the full lifecycle. 

The introduction of the SMETA Audit and our Ethical Marketing Commitment follow the integration of the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code into ourrigorous Code of Practice, which is signed by every member. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;

• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and

• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

Lorcan Mekitarian is chair of the Cleaning & Hygiene Suppliers Association

For more information, visit www.CHSA.co.uk

@CHSACleaning

The change was unanimously supported by all manufacturing scheme members at their recent Annual General Meetings. 

The ethical audit is known as a SMETA Audit (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit, which has been used by UK retailers for many years to monitor their supply chains. More than 85,000 businesses from across the world have made Sedex their trusted partner in creating a more socially and environmentally sustainable supply chain. 

The new requirement applies to all members of the CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue, Plastic Sacks, Cotton Mops and Cleaning Chemicals. The minimum requirement will be a ‘2 Pillar SMETA Audit’, which covers labour standards and health and safety at the factories manufacturing CHSA Accredited Products. Compliance with labour laws, working conditions and the fair treatment of workers will be evaluated, and the workplace safety measures and occupational health standards will be assessed. The audit needs to be carried out by the end of 2025.

Lorcan Mekitarian, chair of the CHSA, explained: “Our members are committed to adhering to the highest standards in the practice of their businesses. The introduction of the ‘2 Pillar SMETA Audit’ into our inspection process was a natural step, and one our members wholeheartedly supported at their recent AGMs. We are delighted to offer this additional peace of mind to buyers and end users of cleaning and hygiene products.” 

The CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes are for manufacturers of paper-based products, plastic-based products, cotton-based products, and cleaning chemicals, and for distributors of cleaning and hygiene products. They guarantee ‘what’s on the box is what’s in the box’.

The CHSA has integrated the Competition & Markets Authority’s Green Claims Code into its rigorous Code of Practice, which is signed by every member. 

The combination of the Code of Practice and Accreditation Scheme membership means every member:

• Trades ethically and sustainably;
• Provides quality, fit for purpose products; and
• Makes sure what’s on the box is what’s in the box.

@CHSACleaning

www.CHSA.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

The discussion will take place on Tuesday 18 March at 12.15pm. 

Climate change is a complex challenge for all businesses. We need environmentally-friendly solutions that are effective, affordable and safe to use. The Cleaning

As sponsor of the CSSA Innovation Showcase, the CHSA will join the CSSA on Stand Number D55. Visitors will be able to find out about the CHSA’s six Accreditation Schemes and its rigorous Code of Practice. Together they guarantee “what’s on the box is what’s in the box. 

The panel will be chaired by the CHSA chair, Lorcan Mekitarian. It will comprise:

• Peter Thistlethwaite: Technical Manager - Cosmetics and Biocides at MSL Solution Providers. Peter is a Microbiologist with experience working in the cleaning & hygiene, cosmetics and water industries. His work involves testing and quality control
• Daisy Hunter: Sustainability & Innovations Manager, Jangro Ltd
• Nicholas Parrish: Wightman and Parrish, which was recently awarded a Gold Ecovadis Certificate and became a B Corp in November 2024
• Vikki Morris: Environment and Sustainability Manager for Evans Vanodine International PLC. Vikki is a Chartered Environmentalist and a Full Member of IEMA
• Chloe Andrews: Customer Sustainability Manager, Lyreco UK & Ireland. Chloe is a Certified Carbon Literacy Trainer and IEMA Registered Trainer. 

The Panel members will outline the key issues and take questions from the audience, helping buyers make sure they do not fall foul of exaggerated, vague or false environmental claims.

@CHSACleaning

For more information, visit​ www.CHSA.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919

Stand D55

Four bursaries will be awarded in September this year, following a tough selection process. The four successful applicants will each receive £6,000 during their university career. They will receive £2,000 at the start of each academic year or the first three years if the degree is longer. 

Attending university is financial challenging for many your people. The Bursary will help them engage fully in their time at university. They can use the funds for books and study materials, field trips, club memberships and taking part in the full range of social opportunities. 

David Garcia, Vice President of the CHSA explained: “We are extremely proud of our Bursary. Life is challenging for young people, particularly for those with the ability to attend university but not necessarily the financial resources. Our Bursary can be crucial. It can make the difference between simply surviving at university and being able to make the most of the wonderful opportunities on offer.”

The CHSA Undergraduate Bursary is open only to the children of employees of CHSA members. Applicants must be 18 years or over on 1 September 2025 and commencing their higher education studies this autumn.  They will be assessed according to need, worthiness, endeavour and overall performance. Each successful applicant will also bring something unique, their ‘x-factor’. 

Eligible young people need to visit the CHSA website and click on the link on the Bursary page. The form includes a 400-word statement. 

The closing date for applications is Friday 27 June 2025. Shortlisted applicants need to be available to meet the judging panel, to be led by CHSA Vice President David Garcia, in July 2025. The winners will be announced in early September. 

For more information, visit www.chsa.co.uk

Tel: Tel: 0800 243 919

The CHSA’s Accreditation Schemes for Manufacturers of Soft Tissue, Plastic Sacks, Cotton Mops and Cleaning Chemicals and for Distributors mean buyers of these products can be certain they get what they pay for. ‘What’s on the box is what’s in the box.’ The credibility of the Schemes is underpinned by the auditing process, conducted by the Inspector. The Inspector audits each member according to the Manufacturing Standard and Technical Regulations of each Scheme, independent of influence from the CHSA’s Governing Council.

David Luffman is an experienced quality and technical manager whose track record includes working in the soft tissue and plastics sectors, most recently working as product development manager at Essity. He is taking over the role from Martin Yates. Martin has served the CHSA for 11 years, playing a pivotal role in building and maintaining the credibility and value of the Association’s Accreditation Schemes. 

Explaining why he has taken on the role, David said: “As a product and quality professional working in the sector I understand the value of the CHSA and the importance of the Accreditation Schemes to buyers of cleaning and hygiene products. The Schemes give them the confidence they are getting product that is fit for purpose and not short on count, or dimensions. It was an opportunity not to be missed.”

Lorcan Mekitarian, Chair of the CHSA said: “We are delighted David has taken up the role and will be working to make sure our members continue to comply with the specifications of our Schemes. He knows the market and understands the issues and so is well placed to help us continue to evolve the Schemes to meet new market challenges. 

“Martin Yates has made an incredibly important contribution to the CHSA. He has been instrumental in helping members maintain standards in our industry. We are grateful he will work alongside David during the handover period. It means our Accreditation Schemes will continue to offer buyers the confidence they need, uninterrupted. Our Standards, Your Guarantee.”

For more information, visit www.chsa.co.uk

Tel: 0800 243 919