Product Carbon Footprint Now Available via SCSN: Ready for the Future Together
Why CO₂ Information Matters
The demand for CO₂ data has grown significantly in recent years. Customers want insight into the climate impact of products, and European legislation - including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Digital Product Passport (DPP) - will soon make sharing this information mandatory.
"A carbon footprint runs through the entire supply chain," explains Laurens Meijering (SCSN). "From raw materials to production and reuse. Large companies will soon be required to report and need data from their suppliers. Smaller companies will also be affected."
For SMEs working with large organizations, a PCF message may be needed sooner than expected. Failing to act could lead to loss of customers, revenue, and increased workload.
PCF: Immediately Relevant for Businesses
For sellers and buyers, the need is already tangible. Manually collecting CO₂ data via PDFs or separate documents is time-consuming. Automating PCF via SCSN keeps workloads low and allows companies to serve their customers faster and more efficiently.
Moreover, having clear insight into CO₂ emissions can support negotiations and tenders. Companies that can deliver reliable data instantly have a competitive edge. For suppliers, this makes them more attractive partners; for buyers, it offers certainty and comparability.
Getting Started with PCF
Calculating and sharing a PCF doesn't have to be complicated. It starts with gathering data about your product and processes, such as material usage, energy consumption, and transport. Then, you use a calculation method or tool to translate that data into CO₂ emissions.
"Market players are still searching for the right way to calculate and report PCF," says Guido Budziak (TNO). "Via SCSN, you can share not only the PCF values but also the calculation method used. This makes your approach transparent and allows for easy adjustments. The key is that the community gains experience and shares examples so companies can see how it works in practice."
The final step is sharing the information - now easily done via SCSN. The PCF message allows CO₂ data to be sent in a standardized way as part of your existing message flow, making sustainability data an integrated part of daily operations.
PCF in the Message Flow
The PCF message is designed to integrate CO₂ data into existing SCSN communications. Companies don't need separate systems or documents.
"You can now simply include PCF information in the messages you already send," explains Stijn Murrer (Supplydrive). "Think of an order message where you include not just price and delivery time, but also the product's carbon footprint. Or a measurement message where you exchange specific emissions data."
This keeps the information standardized, reusable, and easy to process - without extra manual steps.
Preparing for the Future
PCF is more than meeting today's demands - it's a stepping stone toward broader European developments like DPP and CSRD.
"With PCF, we're preparing for the Digital Product Passport," says Adriaan van Kalkeren (SCSN). "It helps companies comply with regulations, serve customers better, and stand out in the market."
By starting now, companies can set up their processes before obligations take effect - avoiding costly investments or reorganizations later.
First Version, Solid Foundation
The PCF message is now available and forms the basis for further development. New versions will follow, aligned with European standards and practical experience. The integration of the PCF message was made possible with financial support from the Province of North Brabant.
Together, we're taking the next step: toward a digital network where sustainability, collaboration, and innovation are central.
Start using PCF via SCSN today and make sure your company is ready for the future of sustainability.