The general public is increasingly concerned about the direct and indirect health implications of Scope 3 emissions, which encompass the entire value chain of a product, from production to disposal. The fear is that these emissions contribute significantly to climate change and air pollution, posing serious health risks and environmental degradation. This concern is heightened by the realization that these emissions are often less visible and harder to regulate, yet they constitute a large portion of a company's overall environmental footprint.

Biodiversity loss is a major concern for the public, who are aware of the importance of preserving natural habitats and species for the overall health of the planet. Activities that lead to habitat destruction, such as deforestation, overfishing, or unsustainable agricultural practices, are viewed critically. The general public is increasingly vocal about the need to protect biodiversity, recognizing that a loss in species diversity can have far-reaching ecological and economic consequences.

Pollution, whether local (like water or soil contamination) or global (like plastic waste and air pollution), is a significant concern for the public. There is a growing awareness of how pollution affects not just the environment, but also the quality of life for communities worldwide. The public is particularly concerned about the long-term effects of pollution, such as the potential for irreversible damage to ecosystems and the health risks associated with exposure to pollutants.

Examples

The automotive industry has seen public outcry over the contribution of vehicle emissions to air pollution and climate change. This concern extends beyond direct emissions to include Scope 3 emissions associated with vehicle production, fuel extraction, and disposal.

Public awareness and concern about the role of agriculture in biodiversity loss, especially in relation to practices like deforestation for crop production or grazing, have led to increased demand for sustainably sourced products and transparency in supply chains.

The chemical industry often faces public scrutiny due to incidents of local pollution, such as waterway contamination, and its role in global pollution challenges, like plastic waste. These concerns have led to calls for stricter regulations and cleaner production methods.