More than one in four UK fleet managers admit they do not understand the difference between Scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions, according to new research from business mobility provider Alphabet (GB).
The findings, released ahead of National Clean Air Day on 19th June, highlight a worrying knowledge gap in emissions reporting across UK fleets.
The study found that 26% of fleet managers were unclear on the distinctions between emission scopes, while nearly a quarter (23%) were unaware of potential financial penalties for failing to report emissions.
Alarmingly, 12% of respondents described emissions reporting as merely a “tick-box exercise”.
Public sector respondents were the least familiar with emissions scopes, with only 60% able to correctly identify the differences.
By contrast, 92% of those in logistics and 85% in construction demonstrated a stronger understanding.
Caroline Sandall-Mansergh, consultancy and channel development manager at Alphabet (GB), said: “Our study shows that there is a significant knowledge gap when it comes to fleet emissions reporting.
“Fleet managers and business owners need to take the support available to better understand the complexities of emissions calculating, recording and reporting to ensure compliance and avoid the risk of costly penalties.
“By prioritising education and creating accessible resources, we help fleet managers to meet their obligations, while contributing to the UK’s broader sustainability goals.”
The research also revealed that 15% of large UK firms, many of which are subject to mandatory reporting requirements, still felt unsure or dismissive of emissions reporting.
In response, Alphabet is calling for greater Government support and has launched Carbon Manager, a new tool designed to help fleet operators monitor and report their emissions accurately.
