What is FootprintLab?

FootprintLab is an Australian company that provides robust emissions data and tools to support carbon accounting and sustainability reporting. They specialise in developing spend-based emissions factors using input–output modelling.

At its core, FootprintLab helps organisations estimate their Scope 3 emissions—particularly for purchased goods and services—when supplier-specific or activity-based data isn’t available. Their emissions factors are widely used across sustainability software platforms, including Trace and Climate Active.

Key Features of FootprintLab’s Work:

• Spend-Based Methodology: They use Environmentally Extended Input–Output (EEIO) models that link financial spending with the emissions generated throughout supply chains.

• Transparent and Regularly Updated: FootprintLab’s datasets are updated to reflect the latest national greenhouse gas inventories and economic activity, ensuring relevance and accuracy.

• Used by Government and Industry: Their factors are trusted by federal and state government agencies, universities, and leading carbon management platforms.

How Trace Uses FootprintLab

Trace licenses emissions factors from FootprintLab to help estimate Scope 3 emissions from your company’s financial spend—particularly in categories like:

• Purchased goods and services

• Capital goods

• Professional services

• ICT and equipment

This allows Trace to provide a consistent, credible foundation for emissions estimates based on your business activity.