Legislation
7
mins

ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint: Meaning and Key Requirements

Updated on
June 23, 2025

These are the 5 benefits of applying the ISO 14067 carbon footprint standard to your company in 2025:

  1. Facilitates compliance with regulations such as CSRD, EINF, or SBTi
  2. Helps you identify efficiency opportunities in your operations
  3. Strengthens your credibility in the market without greenwashing
  4. Opens doors to sustainable financing and improves your risk profile
  5. Aligns your activity with strategic emission reduction goals

Measuring the ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint has become a priority for companies that want to remain competitive.

It’s no longer a “bonus,” it’s part of the game if you sell products and want to stay in the market.

Every product leaves a footprint. And that footprint, if you don’t know it or measure it, will cost you.

From the origin of raw materials to its use and end of life, everything adds emissions.

ISO 14067 is the standard that tells you how to measure those emissions clearly and in a standardized way.

No unnecessary complications and no reinventing the wheel.

Why does this matter to you? Because it helps you understand the real impact of your products, make better decisions, and avoid falling behind as regulations tighten.

In this article, we’ll look at what ISO 14067 is, how to apply it, and why it can be an advantage for your business.

If you don’t measure, you don’t improve. And if you don’t improve, someone else will.

5 direct benefits of applying ISO 14067 that impact your business

Applying the ISO 14067 standard isn’t just about having another seal.

It’s a concrete way to translate your impact into useful data you can use to make better decisions.

1. Facilitates compliance with regulations like CSRD, EINF, or SBTi

If you’re already gathering ESG data, ISO 14067 helps you organize it and use it for whatever you need.

EINF, CSRD, SBTi, Taxonomy... whatever you’re working on or what’s coming.

You won’t need to redo the work. A well-done measurement serves you for everything.

2. Helps you identify efficiency opportunities in your operations

When you measure properly, you clearly see where you're wasting time, money, or resources.

And that’s where you can act.

Often, what pollutes the most is also what costs the most. If you fix it, you improve your margin.

3. Strengthens your credibility in the market without greenwashing

Talking about sustainability is nice, but if you don’t have data to back it up, no one will take you seriously.

ISO 14067 lets you show real results, no smoke and mirrors.

And that gives you an edge over those who only offer speeches.

4. Opens doors to sustainable financing and improves your risk profile

More and more funds, banks, and insurers are asking for proof of your climate commitment.

With a robust measurement like the one this standard proposes, you give them what they’re looking for.

The result? Better conditions and fewer obstacles to grow.

5. Aligns your activity with strategic emission reduction goals

Reduction goals can’t be based on assumptions.

ISO 14067 gives you a clear and technical base to define credible, measurable goals.

And if you have to report progress, you’re already set up to do it right.

How ISO 14067 Facilitates Regulatory Compliance and ESG Management

Simplifies Reporting for Key Regulations

Applying the ISO 14067 standard allows you to organize carbon footprint data in a structured and standardized way. 

This facilitates compliance with regulations such as CSRD, EINF, SBTi, and the European Taxonomy, avoiding duplicated work and chaos from different formats.

Solid Foundation for Reliable Reports

Measuring under ISO 14067 provides clear, precise, and auditable data that serve as a trustworthy base for any ESG report. 

This eliminates vague interpretations and positions you better before regulators, clients, and investors.

Reduces Legal Risks and Improves Planning

Having precise measurement aligned with regulations reduces risks of non-compliance and penalties. 

Moreover, reliable data allows you to plan reduction targets and necessary actions in advance, making management more strategic and less reactive.

Real Impact on Operational Efficiency and Cost Savings

Clear Identification of Critical Points

Measuring the carbon footprint according to ISO 14067 shows you exactly where the largest environmental impacts are within your value chain

These often coincide with areas where resources and money are also lost.

Process and Material Optimization

With this information, you can adjust processes, choose more efficient materials, and improve logistics, which translates into emissions reduction and direct savings on operating costs.

Continuous Improvement Based on Real Data

ISO 14067 is not a one-time calculation but a tool to measure and compare over time. 

This enables you to establish clear indicators and advance in continuous improvement, optimizing resources and increasing profitability.

How to Implement the ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint Without Complications

Define clear boundaries to avoid confusion

Before starting the measurement, it’s essential to precisely define which products or business lines you will evaluate and which stages of the life cycle you will cover. 

This prevents collecting unnecessary data or creating a “Frankenstein” of information that’s difficult to manage, complicating analysis and decision-making.

Having these clear boundaries from the start allows you to focus efforts, improve data quality, and speed up the entire measurement process. Without this clarity, you risk investing time and resources in data that don’t add real value.

Choose a recognized and auditable methodology

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. ISO 14067 provides a clear, standardized framework compatible with other international standards like PAS 2050 or the GHG Protocol. 

Following a recognized methodology ensures your data is reliable, comparable, and easily auditable when needed.

This approach also makes it easier for your reports to be accepted by regulators, clients, and partners, avoiding questions that could put your credibility at risk.

Use tools that simplify management

Measuring the carbon footprint manually may be feasible short-term but is slow, error-prone, and hard to scale. 

Having a digital solution that centralizes data, automates processes, and generates reports automatically is key to saving time, minimizing risks, and improving traceability.

Additionally, these tools facilitate data updates, progress tracking, and report generation for different regulations or stakeholders, turning measurement from a headache into a strategic asset.

Experience our platform firsthand, schedule a demo.

How to Overcome the Main Challenges in Carbon Footprint Measurement

Data access and quality: the essential foundation

One of the biggest hurdles is obtaining complete, reliable, and traceable data. Without a single, trustworthy source, any calculation loses accuracy and value for decision-making.

Therefore, it’s critical to establish robust processes to obtain and validate this information from the start. 

This includes working closely with suppliers, optimizing internal systems, and ensuring data is current and audited.

Traceability across the supply chain

Most emissions don’t come just from our direct operations but from suppliers or third parties. Without clear and complete traceability of the supply chain, the measurement is incomplete and doesn’t reflect the true impact.

It’s vital to collaborate closely with suppliers, demand transparency, and use digital technologies that facilitate data collection and verification throughout the entire chain.

Lack of time and internal expertise

Measuring the footprint can seem complex, technical, and costly, especially if the internal team lacks experience or dedicated resources. 

Without proper support, this can create more problems than solutions.

Adopting a practical approach, supported by specialized platforms and clear processes, helps you start with essentials, progress quickly, and avoid mistakes that complicate implementation. 

This builds confidence and creates a sustainable process over time.

How to Turn Carbon Footprint Measurement into a Real Competitive Advantage

Turn data into strategic decisions

Measuring the carbon footprint shouldn’t be just a reporting exercise. The generated data must be used to make decisions that improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental sustainability impacts.

This approach turns measurement into a real source of value for the company.

With accurate and up-to-date information, you can identify critical areas to optimize, evaluate alternatives, and design action plans that drive sustainable governance and profitability.

Enhance relationships with clients and investors

In a market where transparency and sustainability are increasingly demanded, having a certified, robust measurement according to ISO 14067 strengthens credibility with clients, partners, and investors.

This not only opens doors to new business opportunities and alliances but also facilitates access to sustainable financing, better contract terms, and a positive reputation in the market.

Prepare your company for the future

Regulatory and market demands regarding sustainability and emissions reduction will only increase. 

Companies with a solid measurement and management system will be better positioned to adapt and lead in their sectors.

This allows anticipating changes, avoiding penalties, and responding quickly to new demands, consolidating a competitive advantage that will make the difference in the coming years.

Why ISO 14067 is Key to Gaining Credibility and Unlocking New Opportunities

Builds Real and Transparent Trust

In a market where sustainability has become a requirement, having a measurement certified according to ISO 14067 gives you credibility without greenwashing or empty talk. You show tangible results that back your environmental commitment.

Access to Sustainable Financing and Better Terms

More and more funds, banks, and insurers demand concrete evidence of impact reduction. 

ISO 14067 enables you to demonstrate that commitment with robust, standardized data, easing access to better financial conditions and lower risks, including improved evaluations of your stock value and stability.

Alignment with Strategic Emission Reduction Goals

Measuring your carbon footprint with this standard helps you define clear, measurable, and achievable goals. 

This allows you to align your efforts with global commitments and internal strategies, strengthening your position before clients, investors, and regulators.

Ready to unlock efficiency? Schedule a demo.

What is the Carbon Footprint according to ISO 14067?

A clear and direct definition

The ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint measures the greenhouse gas emissions associated with a product’s life cycle.

From the extraction of raw materials to the end of its use.

It’s not about promises. It’s about real, measurable, and comparable data.

How it differs from other carbon footprint calculation standards

Unlike other more generic methodologies, ISO 14067 focuses on the product, not the entire company.

This allows you to go into detail and understand the specific impact of what you sell.

It’s compatible with other standards like PAS 2050 or the GHG Protocol, but it’s more straight to the point.

What it covers: product, life cycle, direct and indirect emissions

The standard covers the entire product life cycle, not just what you do as a company.

That includes suppliers, logistics, usage, and end of life.

And yes, it also includes both direct and indirect emissions.

Because the impact doesn’t end in your factory.

Why applying ISO 14067 is key for your company's ESG strategy

Regulatory compliance in an increasingly regulated environment

Legal requirements are rising, and they’re not slowing down.

ISO 14067 helps you adapt without improvising or wasting time reinventing processes.

Compliance gets easier when your data is already organized and ready to report.

Competitive positioning in tenders, purchasing, and supply chains

More and more clients and suppliers are asking for concrete proof of environmental impact.

Having solid measurement under ISO 14067 puts you ahead in selection processes.

It’s not just about “good intentions.” It’s about data that supports your proposal.

Transparency in communication with investors and stakeholders

Trust is built on facts.
And if you can show how you measured your emissions,
you gain credibility with those who really matter: investors, partners, and strategic clients.

Can we relax? Not really. Expectations are rising, and data is the new currency.

How is the Carbon Footprint calculated with ISO 14067?

Basic principles of the calculation

The ISO 14067 standard is based on a clear principle:
measure all emissions associated with the life cycle of a product.

From production to the end of its use, leaving nothing important out.

It’s not based on vague estimates, but on concrete data.

Data collection: what you need to have on hand

Before calculating, you need to gather reliable information about energy, transportation, raw materials, processes, etc.

The more accurate your data, the better the analysis will be.

Will an Excel sheet do? To start with, yes.
But if you want to scale, you need a more solid solution.

Quantification criteria and compatible methodologies

ISO 14067 is compatible with other standards like the GHG Protocol or PAS 2050.

It uses recognized emission factors and leaves little room for improvisation.

That allows you to use the same database for multiple reports, without duplicating work.

What comes next? What to do once you have the results

Measuring is not the end. It’s the starting point.

With the results in hand, you can set goals, reduce emissions, and justify strategic decisions.

Also, that data helps you with what’s next: from audits to CSRD reports.

And if tomorrow the regulation changes, you’re not starting from scratch.
You’re already ready.

No more guesswork: schedule a demo.

3 Real Challenges When Implementing the ISO 14067 Carbon Footprint

1. Access to and quality of necessary data

You can’t measure properly if the data you’re using is incomplete, inaccurate, or just doesn’t exist.

And gathering it can take more time than expected.

Having a centralized and reliable source is the first thing we need to solve.

2. Difficulties tracing emissions in the supply chain

Most emissions aren’t in what we do, but in what happens before and after.

The problem? That information isn’t always available or clear.

Without real visibility into the chain, the calculation falls short.

3. Lack of time or internal specialized knowledge

To many companies, this sounds like science fiction, or they lack the team to do it right.

How do you solve it without making a mess?
With a practical approach and tools that save you time and effort.

Our Vision as ESG Measurement Experts

The importance of a practical, business-connected approach

Measuring just to measure makes no sense.
This is about translating data into decisions that improve your operations and competitiveness.

You don’t need to become a carbon expert, but you do need to understand your impact and how to manage it.

ISO 14067 as a starting point, not a goal

This standard isn’t the finish line.
It’s the starting point of a smarter business sustainability strategy.

One that allows you to comply, save, and grow with real data on the table.

5 Steps to Launch Your Measurement Process with a Strategic Focus

Step 1: Define your organizational and product boundaries

First, you need to be clear on what you’re going to measure and in which part of your operation.

Product, service, business unit… define it well or you’ll end up with a Frankenstein of data.

Step 2: Identify key data and verify its traceability

Not all data is useful. You need reliable, traceable, and updated information.

And if you’re already collecting it for other ESG reports, even better.

Step 3: Apply a clear and auditable methodology

It’s not about making things up. Use a recognized methodology that can be audited if necessary.

ISO 14067 gives you the framework. You just have to follow it properly.

Step 4: Establish continuous improvement indicators

Measuring once and forgetting about it doesn’t work.

You need to set concrete metrics, compare them over time, and adjust when needed.

This is about improving, not just reporting out of obligation.

Step 5: Prepare your data to report and communicate

Having the data isn’t enough. You have to know how to present it clearly and usefully.

Whether for regulations, clients, or investors, your information must be ready to move.

And that’s where a solution like ours makes the difference:
we’re not auditors, we’re a tool to make your life easier.

Let us show you what we can do, schedule a demo.

How to choose which products to measure first (without losing your mind)

Start with the products that have the biggest impact

You don’t need to measure everything from day one. If you have a wide range of products, the smartest move is to begin with the ones generating the most emissions.

How do you spot them? Typically, they’re energy-intensive, involve complex processes, or have a long supply chain. Also look at best-sellers or those entering markets with strict environmental rules.

Check what data you already have

Before jumping into measurement, take a look at the info you already have. Got energy use data, supplier info, transport logs? Great. That’s your starting point.

It’s not about perfection, it’s about progress. You can fine-tune later.

Think about what will give you the best return

Measuring and reducing your carbon footprint can open doors: new clients, savings, reputation. So prioritize the products that will help you reach those goals.

What no one tells you about carbon footprint measurement

You’ll find more mistakes than you expected

Once you start measuring, inefficiencies will pop up everywhere: unnecessary transport routes, redundant materials, duplicated processes.

And that’s great. Because it lets you fix them and improve how your business runs.

You don’t need to be a sustainability expert

Neither you nor your team need to be carbon specialists. What you do need is organized data and a tool that makes your life easier.

The technical part is already standardized. What matters is that the results help your business.

Small changes count too

No need to reinvent the whole company. Sometimes just switching suppliers, tweaking packaging, or optimizing delivery routes already reduces your footprint and costs.

Start with what you can control and build from there.

What comes after measuring? How to turn data into decisions

Spot the hotspots and take action

Once you’ve measured, you’ll see which life cycle stages generate the most emissions. Is it production? Transport? Raw materials?

That’s where to focus your efforts. Because lowering emissions in those areas improves both impact and efficiency.

Set clear (and realistic) actions

No need to promise you’ll be carbon neutral in six months. Set clear, achievable goals instead:

  • Swap dirty materials for cleaner ones

  • Use local suppliers

  • Boost energy efficiency

Use the data to communicate with substance

Measurement results are great for speaking with facts. This isn’t greenwashing—it’s real data.

And that builds trust with clients, investors, and regulators. Because you’re showing progress, not just good intentions.

How to avoid common mistakes when applying ISO 14067

Measuring without setting clear boundaries

One of the most common mistakes is trying to measure everything without a clear plan. The result? Useless data, wasted time, and a big mess.

Start by clearly defining the product and the life cycle stages you'll evaluate. The clearer your scope, the more valuable your data will be.

Using data without checking its quality

Another classic mistake is dumping in any data without verifying where it comes from. If it’s outdated or unreliable, your whole measurement loses credibility and you risk making the wrong decisions.

Fix it: Set up a process to validate and update your data regularly.

Not using the results to improve your business

Some companies measure just to tick a box. But ISO 14067 isn’t just for reporting. It’s a strategic tool to cut costs, improve efficiency, and stand out. If you don’t act on the results, you’re wasting value.

Don’t miss the chance to see it in action, schedule a demo.

What auditors look for when reviewing ISO 14067

Consistency between what you say and what you do

Auditors check whether your carbon footprint claim matches your actual data and methodology.

No greenwashing here, your figures need to be real and traceable.

Justification of your data and sources

Saying “I found this online” won’t cut it. You need to show where each number comes from, what emission factor you used, and why.

A lack of documentation can sink your audit.

Transparency in scope and decisions

Did you change the scope? Leave something out of the analysis? Be upfront. The more transparent you are, the stronger your report will be.

And if there are weak spots, it’s better to fix them before an auditor calls them out.

How to turn your team into allies (without the drama)

Explain the “why” before the “how”

Resistance comes when people don’t get the reason behind a project. Before you ask for data or change workflows, make it clear that measuring carbon footprint isn’t a trend, it’s a smart way to improve the business.

Involve the people who hold the data

Don’t try to do it alone. Bring in procurement, logistics, and production from day one. They know where the data lives, and how the processes actually work.

Make the process simple and useful

The simpler the process, the easier it is to get buy-in. Use a clear solution, automate where possible, and show how the data actually helps them do their jobs better.

3 situations where applying ISO 14067 gives you an immediate edge

1. When you're bidding on public or private tenders

The rules have changed. Many tenders today, especially in construction, food, or energy, now require detailed environmental data.

If you can’t provide it, you’re out.

Having an ISO 14067-based carbon footprint ready shows you’ve done your homework.

It proves you can back up your claims with real data and meet the technical demands of the contract.

That gives you a clear advantage over companies that are still playing catch-up or rely on vague sustainability claims.

2. When you're exporting to countries with strict environmental rules

Markets like the EU are raising the bar with regulations like the CBAM and CSRD.
The same goes for Canada, South Korea, and even some U.S. states.

If you want to sell there, you’ll need verifiable product-level impact data.

ISO 14067 is an internationally recognized standard. It’s clear, technical, and trusted.

Having it already in place means you can respond faster to regulatory demands, avoid border issues or compliance headaches, and stay competitive.

3. When you're negotiating with major distributors or global brands

Big brands are increasingly asking their suppliers to provide sustainability data. 

They want to reduce their scope 3 emissions through decarbonization, and they need you to help them do it.

If you show up with ISO 14067 measurements in hand, you make their life easier and position yourself as a reliable partner.

That can mean better deals, long-term contracts, and a fast-track to becoming a preferred supplier.

How to use ISO 14067 to innovate your products

1. Redesign your materials with an environmental lens

One of the key benefits of carbon footprinting is that it shows you exactly which materials are driving emissions. And that’s where innovation starts.

What happens if you replace virgin plastic with recycled content?
Or use FSC-certified wood instead of conventional plywood?

These are product decisions that used to be aesthetic or optional — today, they have a direct impact on your footprint and your margins.

2. Rethink your packaging: less really is more

In many industries, packaging accounts for a big chunk of the total footprint — especially in food, cosmetics, or fast-moving consumer goods.

This is especially critical for small and midsize enterprises that may lack the resources of larger corporations, making efficiency gains from packaging optimizations even more impactful.

ISO 14067 helps you understand just how much impact your packaging has.
And from there, you can optimize:

  • Reduce weight or volume

  • Switch to cleaner materials

  • Go for reusable or biodegradable options

The bonus? You lower emissions, cut shipping costs, and improve your sustainability narrative.

3. Design for use and end-of-life, not just production

Many products generate most of their emissions during use (think appliances) or when they’re discarded (like textiles or packaging).

With ISO 14067, you can see this clearly, and act on it.

That could mean making products more durable or easier to repair.
Or building in take-back schemes, recyclability, or second-life uses.

It’s good for your impact, and even better for how the market sees you.

What to do if you don't have all the data (and don't want to sit still)

1. Start with estimates from credible secondary sources

Not having perfect data shouldn’t stop you.

There are plenty of public databases and reputable emission factors you can use to build an initial estimate.

You don’t need to wait two years to get started. You need to start now and improve as you go.

A decent approximation today is better than radio silence while you chase the perfect number.

2. Work with your suppliers to fill in the gaps

A lot of the missing data is upstream: what your supplier uses, how something is shipped, where materials come from.

Don’t guess. Collaborate.
Ask your suppliers for data, or help them measure if needed.

Over time, this builds a stronger, more transparent supply chain that moves in sync with your goals.

3. Prioritize what really moves the needle

Not all data points are equal. Some have a huge impact on your carbon footprint. Others, not so much.

That’s why your early focus should be on the main drivers of emissions: energy, transport, and key materials.

Get those right, and your footprint will be largely accurate, and actionable, from the start.

Why Dcycle Is the ESG Solution You Need

Centralize your ESG data and use it across all frameworks: ISO, CSRD, SBTi, etc.

Got data all over the place? With us, that’s over.

You gather everything in one single place and use it for any regulation you need to comply with.
No duplicated effort.

From ISO 14067 to CSRD or SBTi. One source, multiple uses.

Save time, minimize errors, and simplify traceability

Forget about endless spreadsheets and back-and-forth emails with suppliers.

We automate key tasks, reduce human error, and give you total visibility.

That way, you can focus on improving, not chasing data.

From one single place: measure, manage, and communicate your impact

Measuring without context is useless.
Reporting without strategy doesn’t help either.

With Dcycle, you do everything from one place, with real data aligned with your business goals.

And no, we’re not auditors or consultants.
We’re a solution built for companies like yours.

Learn how we’re different, schedule a demo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What’s the difference between ISO 14067 and other carbon footprint standards?

ISO 14067 focuses on products, not general operations.

That lets you understand the real impact of what you sell, in more detail and precision.

What data do I need to start with ISO 14067?

You need information about raw materials, energy, transport, internal processes, and product use.

The more reliable and traceable the data, the better the calculation.

Is applying this standard mandatory in my industry?

It’s not always mandatory, but more and more clients and regulations are asking for it.

Applying it gets you ready for what’s coming and strengthens your position in the market.

How long does it take to calculate the carbon footprint of a product?

It depends on the product and the data you have available.

With a solution like ours, you can shorten the process and avoid technical bottlenecks.

Can I reuse the results for other ESG reports like CSRD or SBTi?

Yes. Once you have the product footprint data, you can re-use it for EINF, CSRD, Taxonomy, or SBTi.

And that’s exactly what makes smart measurement worth it.

Take control of your ESG data today.
Take control of your ESG data today
Start nowRequest a demo
Cristina Alcalá-Zamora
CSRD Specialist | Content Creator

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How Can You Calculate a Product’s Carbon Footprint?

Carbon footprint calculation analyzes all emissions generated throughout a product’s life cycle, including raw material extraction, production, transportation, usage, and disposal.

The most recognized methodologies are:

  • Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
  • ISO 14067
  • PAS 2050

Digital tools like Dcycle simplify the process, providing accurate and actionable insights.

What Are the Most Recognized Certifications?
  • ISO 14067 – Defines carbon footprint measurement for products.
  • EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) – Environmental impact based on LCA.
  • Cradle to Cradle (C2C) – Evaluates sustainability and circularity.
  • LEED & BREEAM – Certifications for sustainable buildings.
Which Industries Have the Highest Carbon Footprint?
  • Construction – High emissions from cement and steel.
  • Textile – Intense water usage and fiber production emissions.
  • Food Industry – Large-scale agriculture and transportation impact.
  • Transportation – Fossil fuel dependency in vehicles and aviation.
How Can Companies Reduce Product Carbon Footprints?
  • Use recycled or low-emission materials.
  • Optimize production processes to cut energy use.
  • Shift to renewable energy sources.
  • Improve transportation and logistics to reduce emissions.
Is Carbon Reduction Expensive?

Some strategies require initial investment, but long-term benefits outweigh costs.

  • Energy efficiency lowers operational expenses.
  • Material reuse and recycling reduces procurement costs.
  • Sustainability certifications open new business opportunities.

Investing in carbon reduction is not just an environmental action, it’s a smart business strategy.