Endress+Hauser Flowtec knows about the importance of sustainability within its industry and has already implemented several measures to track its sustainability efforts. To further develop and grow its Group strategy, a tool to measure and monitor its own carbon emissions as well as of its supply chain was needed. Therefore, an evaluation and comparison of suitable carbon footprint calculators had to be conducted. Additionally, a communication strategy for the tool was demanded to approach suppliers. Lastly, the company requested a benchmark to compare itself against the industry.

Via internet research, a pre-selection of tools based on key criteria, whether they are able to perform CO2 calculations or if the focus is rather on general sustainability reporting, was conducted. Later, the most fitting tools were evaluated with the help of a model. Tools exceeding a certain score were assessed further. To propose a communication strategy, the model named “Reinforcement Theory of Motivation” was used. For the benchmark, all available information concerning sustainability efforts for companies in the same industry was collected, displayed in a table, and later analysed.

The outcome indicated that from the four tools examined in more detail, only three could be suggested. Tool one holds advantages through a fast and easy implementation as the tool is already in use at Endress+Hauser Flowtec. Tool two stands out for its excellent alignment with current laws and regulations, and tool three has its competitive advantage by having the most precise CO2 calculation method. The proposed communication strategy helps the customer by suggesting a strategy for approaching suppliers by first making use of positive reinforcement before resorting to negative punishment, the last measure being supplier negligence. The benchmark, on the other hand, reveals that Flowtec is performing about average in terms of sustainability efforts within its industry. Flowtec has developed its own strategy with objectives of CO2 emissions, circularity and being a role model for the industry. Furthermore, they have achieved a 40% reduction in CO2 emissions in Scope 1 and 2. This level of reduction is in the upper area of achievements compared to the benchmark. There is potential in communicating Flowtec's own successes.